Which cameras to chose for children?

[Emma]

Many project members have been wondering which cameras to chose for
the children to use.
Heres some advice from Matt Daw, project manager of participatory
photography charity Photovoice
Which camera?
1. Make sure the children have all got the same camera, this will mean
they can all learn about the same model and functions (and you) and
that they will all use same memory cards etc.
2 Matt recommends Fuji cameras for good quality and a good price. Fuji
also sell refurbished cameras at bargain prices www.fujifilm.co.uk.
https://secure.fujifilm.co.uk/shop/consumer/digital/digital-cameras/fun-and-easy/finepix-jx530
Getting started?
1.Make sure the auto flash function is turned off on all cameras and
make sure the cameras are set for highest quality.
2. After intial experimentation with a camera, begin to introduce
technical functions - you can do this by enlarging image of camera on
whiteboard.and introducing different buttons. Explain to the children
which functions you are using and which you are not and why. Dont try
and introduce all at once but maybe one a week in photo project
sessions. E.g. the flash, we normally have it turned off but if it is
dark it is useful to have it turned on and create dark situation,
maybe with torches for them to experiment with or Close up function,
ask the children to photograph a detail of something- close up using
this function. Matt said that although you should just be able to give
children cameras and see what they come back with actually technical
work around the camera improves quality and increases engagement.
3. Give children time to get used to the cameras. Explain to them that
there are 3 stages to taking a photograph. Matt expressed that this is
really important as it slows the children down and makes them more
thoughtful and purposeful in their choices.
Half press down shutter to see image you are taking
Press shutter fully to take picture
Keep camera steady whist it processes image.
4. View the images back with the children, on powerpoint or picture
viewer or hard copies. Ask them which they prefer and why. Record
their comments. Keep favourite images in named file and delete others.
5.Look at the chosen images with all adults/educators involved in
project. What do they tell us, reveal about the childrens interrests,
fascinations and ways of seeing.? Document the observations.
6. Invite parents in to school to explain about the project, its
approach and aims.
7. Once children have begun to master the camera- offer them a
challenge. E.g. What is beautiful? Can you photograph one thing from 3
angles? Take the camera home and photograph your favoutite things?
Photograph one small thing and one big thing? Photograph a friend from
3 different angles?
8. Beware of the video function- children may be thinking they are
taking photos and in fact taking video which will not be suitable for
the project.
9. Create a project display, print offf the favourite pictures and
display with the childrens explanations and teachers observations etc
10. look at photography websites with children on internet- collect
their comments, display with images.