INEXPENSIVE TIPS FOR CHILDREN WITH DIGITAL CAMERAS

Many of the questions kids have about digital photography are easily answered. Here's
some easy remedies to some of children's most popular questions aboout taking better
shots.

Q) Is the sky in you picture kind of dull and could use more color?

A) Try puting your sunglasses over the lens when you take the picture. This is called POLARIZING and can be used to draw out the color in other types of shots, too.

Q) Is your camera having trouble focusing while you are trying to get a closeup of a flower or other small object?

A) Try moving just a little further back. Sometimes if you are to close to an object, the camera has a hard time focusing.

Q) Did you ever wonder how to make small objects such as toys look really Big?

A) Trying crouching down really low and shooting a picture of that object from
really low. The lower the angle, the larger the object will look. Now try making that object look really big. That's right, shoot the object from above so that you are looking down on it. These tricks are called PERSPECTIVE, meaning another way of looking at something.

Q) Can't find a good deal on a tripod or a tripod just doesn't seem to work for what you are trying to take a picture of?

A) One really cool (and cheap) solution might be to use a large beanbag. Place the beanbag on a firm surface and gently let the camera sink into it. The beanbag will keep the camera from shaking which makes you photos sharper.

DIGITAL CAMERAS USED AS A LEARNING TOOLS:

In today's world of cell phones, texting, video games, television, and other media devices, it's tough to get kids away from the distractions of the techno era. In a world of ever increasing diabetes and obesity at an earlier age, it's crucial for kids to get up and exercise. (more than just their fingers) While some children are into sports such as soccer, baseball, basketball, or other activities that burn calories, boost the metabolism, and increase the sensitivity of the insulin receptors, other children do not enjoy sports that much.

Digital photography is a healthy alternative for kids that don't enjoy sports. It's an added bonus for kids that are already active. It's surprising to see a 13 year old set down their cell phone to pick up a camera (or use their cell phone's built in cameras) to laugh, play and shoot pictures while moving around. It can be a fun activity with friends, or an indivial exploration. One of the keys to keeping children involved in digital photography is to keep exposing them to different aspects, scenerios, and environments. While their first adventure with the camera may be uneventful, they may love the next adventure.

Knowing your children and what they enjoy helps. While teaching the Cameras For Kids Project in schools, there's been a general difference girls and boys. (although it's important to remember there's no set rules). Girls seemed to like the images of animals such as horses and pets. They also seemed to to enjoy scenics full of blue skies and trees. The boys in the same class would gravitate towards blowups
of insects, pictures of cars, and unusual angles of things like tunnels. The idea is to expose the children to as many types of photography as possible. You'll eventually find something that they really love. Hopefully they will soon be getting exercise on there own. - Cameras For Kids Staff

SOMETIMES THE BEST GIFT YOU CAN GIVE A CHILD IS FREE

For Familes on tight budgets this holiday season, you can turn the time into something meaningful and fun. Many people are going back to the basics. Commiting some time to you children can be specacial and fun, and doesn't have to cost anything but a little time. Especially with younger children, a simple 'Chistmas Voucher' inside a card can mean a lot. Whether placed inside a card or given to seperately, you can make a voucher or ceriticate telling you child that you are going to spend X amount of time with them working on a special project. The project can be anything your child loves. A treehouse made out of scrapped wood, A model airplane, A dress up and make over session(s), or of course, photography excursions (even if it's just the back yard). Somewhere in our culture, we've forgotten the fundamentals of holidays, which is just to love, cherish, and be thankful for the blessings that already surround us. Going back to the basics may give your family memories for a lifetime.



If digital photography is the path you choose, here's a link to a free lesson plan developed for children and has been implemented as a 30 minute presentation in schools. The lessons can be expanded on and turned into individual moments with you loved ones. LESSON PLAN

For assistance with the lesson plan, here's a link to the lesson that is currently being used in schools. Scroll down to teachers, here's a simple lesson plan