choosing a camera for a child

[sorcerermick]

Does anybody have a suggestion for an inexpensive (about $100) digital camera that is simple to use? My daughter wants to take pictures but as you know, standard film costs a fortune to develop. I was hoping to get her a very plain no bells and whistles digital so she can snap away. Was looking at the Kodak Easyshare C300 but it is only digital zoom (from a menu no less), and the Concord which has optical zoom but a long delay. I realize I'm probably being to critical for a $100 camera but I am not very educated on these cameras. Does anybody have any suggstions for a child friendly digital camera?

TIA

[Ratpack]

How old is DD? My DD6 is the same way but she is not ready for anything of any cost. So what I found is a small simple digi cam from Wal-mart for $20. It has an internal memory that can store a good number of prints, mostly email size, but that will satisfy her for now. It has a flash as well. If you DD is older then you may want something better but I am not sure what to recommend.

[sorcerermick]

Well, I appreciate the response. She is 8 now, so I'll at least look into the camera at Wal-Mart.

Thanks.

[allie&mattsmom]

I'd be interested in suggestions for a reasonable ($100 or so) digital for my 10 y/o too if someone has any. Thanks!!

[Memaw2Wm]

I bought my GK's the Kodak CX7300 last Christmas for $99.99 and they have really enjoyed them. I believe they are similar to the C300. No optical zoom either, but they really don't need one and they don't use the digital zoom.

They learned how to use the cameras within a few minutes.

My grandson got some great photos when he took a class trip to Jamestown last spring.

HTH

[MiknMinMouse]

There's a really cute Disney Princess Digital Camera on the Disney Store Site. I'm thinking about getting that for my DD because she loves princessess and likes taking pictures but she's not completely interested in the results.

[bcvprincesses]

This must be the year for kids wanting digital cameras. My dd's are 6 and 8 and want a camera. My first reaction was are you kidding. I then thought about how much we have spent on disposable cameras and that only one picture would actually turn out.

We bought an olympus stylus 300 that was originally $220 on clearance at Meijer for $99. It has 3.2 megapix and 3x optical zoom. It was a deal I just couldn't pass on. I hope they don't break it the first day. :rotfl2:

[happybratpack]

Does anyone have any suggestions for appropriate digital cameras for kids? (4 and 8) As you can imagine it's more about sturdiness and ease of use at this point.

ETA - Looking at this for the 4 yo, any reviews would be great.

http://www.fisher-price.com/fp.aspx?st=2621&e=mainproduct&pid=37019&acccat=cameracc&mainid=37019

[Master Mason]

my 14 year old has a canon A540. Cost about $150 or so. It has a full range of auto zones to pick from, built in flash, 4x optical 6mp It also has some auto features for room to grow with the camera as well. Another benifit is it does have a viewfinder, which some of the p&s are doing away with.

It isn't tiny, so it is a little more durable I think, but it is small enough to be put in a pocket.

It seamed like a fairly good beginner camera to me.

ETA this would be good for the 8 year old, might be too much for them, but it depends on the kid.

[ukcatfan]

We are also looking at digitals for our DDs for X-mas. I have not heard very good things about the Fisher Price model other than it being very durable. I believe one person referred to the picture quality as "craptastic". What can you expect from that small of an image. I also read that it was too easy to accidentally delete an image. I heard that there is a Target exclusive model that comes with extras.

While the resolution is no better than the FP, I am looking into the $49 Disney Digital Blue - Pix-Click model. They have a tink model that I am thinking about for the 5 yo. Best buy has them in on their website. I still have not heard anything on the quality. They also have a 3MP model for $79, but it does not have the special designed faceplates that I think my little one will love. For my 8 yo. we will probably go with the $79 model. They also have a $19 model with the same general specs as the $49 model but it has no LCD screen and holds less images. I cannot find out if they accept more memory. There is special Disney software with all models.

I will go with a normal brand for the 13 yo. Somewhere in the $90-120 range. I am leaning towards the Nikon or Canon in that range. The Samsung and Kodak look decent also. I ruled out the Fuji and Olympus b/c they do not use SD memory. I will be handing down a card and with them I would have to spend more $ on a new card.

If anyone out there knows about the Disney cameras, please give us a review.

Kevin

[jann1033]

just subscribing also as am looking at one for granddaughter.

[happybratpack]

Thanks for the heads up on the FP one. I do want the pics to be of decent quality so he can take pics at WDW or wherever w/ it. I like the durability factor of it, wondering what else would be anywhere near that in durability.

I think the 8 yo would be ok w/ anything as far as durability goes, she has been playing with her Dad's digital Rebel and has been careful.

Looking forward to reading more suggestions and thanks!

[asaj]

I am in the same boat, looking for my 7 yr old DD. The problem with a lot of the "kid" digicams is that the memory isn't expandable, so you can only save like 15 pics to the onboard memory. I believe this to be the case with the $80 disney digital camera. For about that price, or a tad more, you can probably find a nice Canon that takes much better pictures, and you can use your own memory card to hold many more pictures.

I think this is the way I am going to go. I am waiting to see if there are any good deals around Thanksgiving, and then deciding. Otherwise, I'll probably go with something like the Canon A430, which takes SD cards (I too have one I will hand down), has 4mp, and great picture quality. It can be had for around $125 online. Hoping to find something similar on sale in a couple weeks though.

Let us know if you find a good deal on something.

Andy

[ukcatfan]

I am in the same boat, looking for my 7 yr old DD. The problem with a lot of the "kid" digicams is that the memory isn't expandable, so you can only save like 15 pics to the onboard memory. I believe this to be the case with the $80 disney digital camera. For about that price, or a tad more, you can probably find a nice Canon that takes much better pictures, and you can use your own memory card to hold many more pictures.


Here is what I found out about the Disney ones so far. The $49 one is only 640x480, but holds 200 images. The $79 one is a 3MP and has expandable memory. It did not say the type, but I would guess it is SD.

I am leaning towards the $49 one for the 5 yo. just because of the Tink case and she will not have any idea that her pics are smaller. It looks relatively easy to use. The $19 one is out because it does not have an LCD screen from what I can tell. I am leaning towards the $79 Disney one for the 9 yo. because she still would like the Disney aspect of it and does not need optical zoom. That is just something to break for someone her age. It looks only a little more complicated than the $49 one. For the 13 yo. I am leaning towards the Nikon L3 or L4 or Canon A530. If I want to go a little cheaper, there is a Kodak and Samsung that looked decent.

Just an FYI... It looks like the A430 is on its way out and you can get the A530 even cheaper than it.

Kevin

[happybratpack]

Here is what I found out about the Disney ones so far. The $49 one is only 640x480, but holds 200 images. The $79 one is a 3MP and has expandable memory. It did not say the type, but I would guess it is SD.
Kevin

I think I'm leaning the same way - the $49 for the 4 yo and the $79 for the 8 yo. I saw the reports that the $49 was at Best Buy now but has anyone seen the more expensive one anywhere?

Thanks!

[ukcatfan]

Best Buy online has it, but I think it shows as a backorder.

Kevin

[asaj]

Here is what I found out about the Disney ones so far. The $49 one is only 640x480, but holds 200 images. The $79 one is a 3MP and has expandable memory. It did not say the type, but I would guess it is SD.

I am leaning towards the $49 one for the 5 yo. just because of the Tink case and she will not have any idea that her pics are smaller. It looks relatively easy to use. The $19 one is out because it does not have an LCD screen from what I can tell. I am leaning towards the $79 Disney one for the 9 yo. because she still would like the Disney aspect of it and does not need optical zoom. That is just something to break for someone her age. It looks only a little more complicated than the $49 one. For the 13 yo. I am leaning towards the Nikon L3 or L4 or Canon A530. If I want to go a little cheaper, there is a Kodak and Samsung that looked decent.

Just an FYI... It looks like the A430 is on its way out and you can get the A530 even cheaper than it.

Kevin

Thats cool that the $79 model can use additional memory, just wish I knew what type it takes. I do think the simplicity would be a plus, although my daughter has used our digicams without any issues. It's amazing how fast kids pick up on these things.

Anyway, I may consider the $79 Disney model, especially if it accepts SD cards. Sounds like it allows the kids to add Disney frames and other things to the pictures, and that's a big plus. However, need to find some place that has them available to check out.

Also, thanks for the heads up un the A530. I guess one reason I was looking at the A430 was it's size. It appears to be a little smaller than the A530, but I could be wrong.

Thanks,
Andy

[ukcatfan]

However, need to find some place that has them available to check out.

Best Buy lists them online and some people have reported seeing them in the store. I believe that they are stocked in the TV/gadget area instead of the camera area. It seems the camera employees have never even heard of them, even though the stores actually carry them.

Also, thanks for the heads up un the A530. I guess one reason I was looking at the A430 was it's size. It appears to be a little smaller than the A530, but I could be wrong.

I believe the A430 is longer and thinner, but they are both pretty small. They would fit in a pocket. The specs are definitely better on the A530. It has manual controls, a better lens, a higher MP count, and a broader ISO range. At the same price, I would always pick the A530.

Kevin

[asaj]

Best Buy lists them online and some people have reported seeing them in the store. I believe that they are stocked in the TV/gadget area instead of the camera area. It seems the camera employees have never even heard of them, even though the stores actually carry them.



I believe the A430 is longer and thinner, but they are both pretty small. They would fit in a pocket. The specs are definitely better on the A530. It has manual controls, a better lens, a higher MP count, and a broader ISO range. At the same price, I would always pick the A530.

Kevin

I was at BB yesterday, and I did see the micro pix cameras, but not the Pix Max, although I wasn't really looking for it. I'll run over today and see if they have any. Shows them as back ordered on the site.

Yeah, the A530 is definitely the more feature rich of the two models, but for my 7 yr old, her being able to hold it comfortably is most important. She would never use any of the manual features, and for 4x6 or 5x7 prints, the extra mp won't make a difference.

Anyway, I think the Pix Max may be the way to go, assuming the photo editing stuff they include is pretty cool, and I can use my extra SD cards. I'll let you know if I find one.

Kevin, thanks again for the advice.

[asaj]

They do not have the pix max at Best Buy here yet.

I am actually considering the Kodak C433 now. It's $99 list price. With a coupon I can get it from Circuit City for $79. Seems like that may be a good way to go....

[lenshanem]

Bought two silver Max versions at Best Buy yesterday. (It was the only color they had, but I was still excited to have found them!)

They also had several Micro versions. (Wow, they are really tiny - don't even look like cameras!) And one style of the mid priced (Click) - POTC. I would have liked the Click version, but I have two girls.

The box for the Max looks pretty neat, shows how you can add in the Disney characters, etc. on top of the pics. I'm going to order a 1 GB SD card from Newegg for them. If you buy an off brand you can get them pretty cheap.

It says it is 3 megapixel, built in flash and 4X digital zoom.

By the way, on Best Buy's website it shows there was no in store pickup availability, but yet they still had them.


I also got the girls the Mix Max Media Players at Target. Got one Tinkerbell and one High School Musical. Also got a couple clips for them. Wow, they are missing the boys here - all the movies seem girl related???

Man, Christmas gifts seem to be getting smaller but more expensive! :confused3

[Tbella]

Like I posted on the other thread, I am buying the disney pix max tinkerbell from ebay because I can't seem to find any at the Best Buys in my area and I don't want to risk it. I want one for my son as well but he is going to turn 4 soon and I think the fisher-price camera is too babyish for him but I don't know if the pix max will be to difficult so I will wait until my daughter gets hers and see how he does with that.

[rtphokie]

Probably too much for a 4 year old but in case there is anyone else looking at this thread with an older kid or teen in mind, Woot.com has a 6MP HP camera on sale (today only) for $99.

http://www.woot.com/Images/Sale/HP_PhotoSmart_M525_6MP_Digital_Camera6XQ-standard.jpg

HP PhotoSmart M525 (http://www.woot.com/)

[0bli0]

...and here i thought the OP was asking for advice on setting the ISO...

actually i'm looking to buy the more expensive disney one for my DD. we don't have them here but i'll be in the states in january.

[happybratpack]

Thanks for all the help on this thread!!

I ended up buying the Disney Max for the 8 yo and the Click (Pirates) for the 4 yo at Best Buy today. They had to find the Max in the back and they only had silver, said that's all that came in the shipment. They were way off on some strange aisle I would have never looked at.

Thanks again!

[asaj]

Well, I had purchased a Kodak 433 for $79 at Best Buy a couple weeks ago. Figured it would work great for my daughter and the price was right. However, Best Buy has the Pix Max on sale today for $49, and I managed to get one of those, so I'll return the Kodak. Either one would do the job, but she will probably like the Disney one better, and it has some software for her to play with.

I was hesitant on the Pix Max, because I couldn't find any details on it, especially on the memory it uses. Once I confirmed that it takes SD cards, I was sold. It lacks a zoom (aside from digital), but my daughter probably wont use that much anyways.

Search is officially over.

[mitushib]

Which is a good model. I want it to have a card expansion slot, a lcd screen. The MP and zoom is not very important. Just point and shoot. Dont want to spend a fortune on it too. Any ideas?

[jann1033]

how old a child?

[mitushib]

5 year old son!

[jann1033]

you might find these reviews/comments interesting http://www.thingamababy.com/baby/2006/08/review_kid_toug.html

....i had been looking for a camera for my grdaughter as well..( for now she's happy with a old film camera that she can look through the eyepiece of and makes a noise when she presses the button but she's only 2)

i've seen easy share type kodak cameras at best buy for around a hundred. i think if and when i get her one it will be something along that line, a cheaper entry level adult digital since i seems all the "kids " ones are pretty lousy

the ones at this link are about $100 unless you can find them on sale http://www.steves-digicams.com/best_cameras.html like the kodak around 90 but the fisher price was around 70 and awful..maybe get a neck strap so he doesn't drop it so much?

[allie5]

We bought my 5 year old the Kodak C110 as it was simple to use. She takes some cracking pictures with it and it cost less than $100 - we got it from the Big K mart. My mother (who has the techno skills of a 5 year old - bless her!) has a Nikon Coolpix which is has a small zoom and cost a little more (around $150) which would also be a good option.

This is one my DD took with her little Kodak. I cropped it in photoshop, but thats all. Its only 3mp and it tad grainy, so Id try and go for 4/5 mp if you can.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v79/allie5/beach.jpg

[donaldduck1967]

I bought my 4yr old a nikon coolpix 4600 last year and she learnd how to use it quickly.

[Jilly16]

You might want to check out HP cameras. When I was 11, my first camera was an HP. It was really simple to use, and wasn't that expensive.

[alexy]

Try ebay. You can get very reasonable deals on a used 2.0 MP camera. A $300 2.0 MP Canon can can be found for ~$20 +shipping. Often they are in very good condition.

I've tried those "kids" cameras and they are horrible!

[Lachesis00]

My girlfriend bought her son who is 8, a digi for his birthday. She got an extended warrenty which was suppose to cover anything if something went wrong... well he dropped it 2 weeks later and jammed the zoom lens. She is still trying to get it fixed or replace. I am trying to remember where she bought it. I know it was an HP.

[mebmama]

My 10yo has been saving her $$ for a digital camera for a very long time. We are taking our 1st trip to Disney in late October and she would really like to take the camera with her. My question... any suggestion for a really nice, reasonably priced, digital camera suitable for a responsible 10 yo? She has around $85 saved if that helps. Thanks so much.

[Marty Joe]

We got our 11yo DD a Kodak digital camera with an additional memory card. It was around $90 (the card was around $23extra). Its learning curve is very small. With some instructions from mom or dad, your 10yo will be up and shooting in no time. The Kodak has a screen on the back (no view finder) and some other options as well (like a small zoom and different modes for fireworks, night, closeups, etc).

[Kim&Chris]

the Canon a460 is great. You can pick one up from Amazon for about $90.

[polkadotladybug]

We got our 10 year old a pink Samsung s630 for her birthday in May - she loves it! Easy enough for her to operate and a few "cutesy" features like funky frames, colors/etc that she can get "wacky" with for pics with her friends. She took it to WDW in June and had a blast taking pictures!

[fitzperry]

We got our dd a Nikon Coolpix L4 a little over a year ago. Newer models (L10, L11 I think) can be had now for around $100, I believe. She is now 8 and loves playing with the different shooting modes. For a kid that age I think the key features are a decent sized LCD, at least 3x optical zoom, movie mode (I think she uses this more than taking still pictures) and ease of use.

[Pea-n-Me]

I don't know if it matters to you but for me, I'd stick with the same brand of camera I had so as to minimize cables, software, batteries, memory card type, etc as well as the learning curve for everyone.

[MarkBarbieri]

We bought our 7 year old a Pentax W30. It was a bit pricier than some of the others mentioned here, but it's waterproof. Given the amount of time he spends in and around the water, we thought that was an important feature for him.

[traces7]

I don't want to spend a whole lot (under $100) if possible. Can I get anything that will take decent pictures for her for that price? Thanks!:goodvibes

[MontanaZoo]

I let my DNiece 11 play with my older Kodak Easyshare when we went on a 10 day camping trip. You can get some of them for close to $100.

[polkadotladybug]

We just got our 8 year old a Samsung S73 for her birthday. My 11 year old has a Samsung S630 which is essentially the same camera, just less megapixels. They come in cute colors (11 year old has pink, 8 year old just got a turquoise blue one).

They are easy to use, they have fun kid/tween features (putting funny faces on the pictures, cute frames, etc), and they are not pricey. We got the blue one at CIrcuit City - and they had a pink one on sale for 57 bucks and the guy pricematched the same exact camera in a different color - so it was a great price! I think we paid 75 for the one last year for my other child.

Here is what the have on their website, but this looks be more megapixels - the S73 has 7.3 megapixels. My daughter's camera looks the same as this though - and both of my girls' cameras have the same exact features and stuff. They must have an updated version now, but we bought my 8 year old's camera no more than 3 weeks ago - we bought it to give her on our trip to Disney and we left on June 20 (her bd was June 23 while we were at WDW). It was in a clear plastic pack hanging on a rack with the less expensive cameras - not out with a demo with the more expensive cameras.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-S860-8-1-Megapixel-Digital-Camera-ndash-Blue-S860BLUE/sem/rpsm/context/99001426/oid/205985/catOid/-13061/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do


We've been very pleased with these for the girls.

[traces7]

We just got our 8 year old a Samsung S73 for her birthday. My 11 year old has a Samsung S630 which is essentially the same camera, just less megapixels. They come in cute colors (11 year old has pink, 8 year old just got a turquoise blue one).

They are easy to use, they have fun kid/tween features (putting funny faces on the pictures, cute frames, etc), and they are not pricey. We got the blue one at CIrcuit City - and they had a pink one on sale for 57 bucks and the guy pricematched the same exact camera in a different color - so it was a great price! I think we paid 75 for the one last year for my other child.

Here is what the have on their website, but this looks be more megapixels - the S73 has 7.3 megapixels. My daughter's camera looks the same as this though - and both of my girls' cameras have the same exact features and stuff. They must have an updated version now, but we bought my 8 year old's camera no more than 3 weeks ago - we bought it to give her on our trip to Disney and we left on June 20 (her bd was June 23 while we were at WDW). It was in a clear plastic pack hanging on a rack with the less expensive cameras - not out with a demo with the more expensive cameras.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-S860-8-1-Megapixel-Digital-Camera-ndash-Blue-S860BLUE/sem/rpsm/context/99001426/oid/205985/catOid/-13061/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do


We've been very pleased with these for the girls.
Thanks! :goodvibes This camera looks like what I was looking for. I'll keep it in mind. Maybe around Christmas they'll have sales on them. I'm hoping to get her one for Christmas.

[polkadotladybug]

I wanted to add that I've never been thanked more for a present from my daughter! She was thanking us days later for the camera as well - and she isn't that excitable of a child - she's thankful - but not still gushing thank yous and hugs out of nowhere days later!

She was soooooo excited to have a "grown-up" camera (ie - one that isn't a toy or one of those low-grade kiddie cameras). We chose 3 megapixels for the camera size and I gave her a 2 gig card and she could take up to 2000+ photos - of course she didn't take that many - but she was trying! Many times I caught her leaned down to a rose or flower using the macro button - just like her mama does (LOL) - she was very receptive to my constructive criticism/advice - ie - hold camera still, turn off flash at certain times, how to use macro - how close to be, etc.

She did seem very pleased to have a camera that was nicer than what her friends have (toy cameras basically) - but we told her we got it for her because she was responsible - and that she couldn't brag about it to her friends although we (and the kids) are not usually the ones with the latest, most expensive (insert car, house, tv, etc) on the block!

[crazee4mickey]

We bought our 10 y.o. daughter a Polaroid i733 (and its pink!) for her birthday in May

Wow this little camera takes amazing pictures! It's a 7.0 mp cmaera with 4X zoom--has a pile of settings (which she can use easily--she likes setting it on sepia or negative so her pictures look "cool").

We bought it off eBay for $103--brand new still in shrink wrapped box then I bought the memory card (1.0GB) for $1.99 off ebay---and I know some say don't buy off eBay but we were delighted with everything!

The camera arrived and worked for only seconds we contacted seller and he said we could return it for a new one but to contact Polaroid as it was on warranty--as soon as I phoned Polaroid they said it was an internal problem and to send it in.
It was replaced because it had a manufacturer defect--from the time we rec'd the camera to sending it away and a new one in its place was less than 2 weeks!! The seller was awesome and did everything possible to help us out, I would highly recommend him.

She took 300 pics this past weekend alone on a "mini holiday" we were on and most of them were amazing! I know she's 10 but they were clear--the ones posted below may be slightly blurry on this post as I had to reduce the image properties to upload them on here;

Here is one she took using the "negative" setting

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/69326DSCI0053_1.JPG

An action shot with her dad swinging the golf club

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/69326DSCI0095.JPG

Wild horses on the roadside

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/69326DSCI0153.JPG


As we are driving down the interstate at 70 mph using the "sepia" setting

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/69326DSCI0184.JPG


Her brothers posing on the golf course

http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/500/69326DSCI0077_1.JPG

[DawnM]

All of our kids now have their own digital cameras.

They really don't care to print all that much out, they really like posing their legos and taking shots to flip through and make mini-movies (you know, move each lego just a little so that when you flip it looks like they are moving?)

And then they typically delete them or save them on computer.

So, we got them each a 2nd hand camera off of craigslist (one got my hand me down, the others got 2nd hand) and tested them before buying.

My kids really don't care about megapixles or that it comes in the original box, they just love shooting pictures.

When we have printed out pictures, they have come out fine.

Dawn

[sage10]

Ok, this may or not be the right place for this. But I want to get my little ones a camera. They are 4. I know, why get a 4 year old a camera. But they want to take pictures with my camera. I have read many reviews on the Fisher Price Kids Tough and the VTech kids cameras. They are not good! I am leaning toward getting them a cheap adult digital camera. What are your thoughts on this? I know they may break it, but I hate to pay $60 for a camera that doesn't take good pictures, when I could pay $20 or so more and they could actually take decent pictures.

Has anyone done this?
Does anyone know a way to attach it to the stroller when we go to Disney next month?
Does anyone have any advice for doing this?

Thanks so much for your help.

[Colleen27]

My DD has a cheap Kodak digital. I think it cost me $70 on sale at Target, and it takes nice pics. She's a pretty good shot for her age and enjoys scrapbooking with pictures she took, so I didn't see the sense in buying an overpriced kids camera that wouldn't produce decent quality pics.

My advice is to take some time to look at a bunch of different lower-end digital cameras and play with the controls. Some are easier than others to operate, and obviously you want one that is very simple.

As far as attaching it to a stroller, I'd put together something like a pacifier holder. Use stroller belt material or something like that, and add heavy duty snaps to make one look to connect to the stroller bar and another to connect to the camera's wrist strap.

[fitzperry]

You might look for something used on eBay or Craigslist. You could probably get a basic 3 or 4 megapixel camera for next to nothing.

When we bought our 7yo a camera, we replaced its wrist strap with a lightweight neck strap. I suppose some people might consider that a choking hazard, but we don't let her climb trees or anything with it on. ;) It's never been a problem, and I don't think she's ever dropped the camera (which is more than I can say for her Nintendo DS).

My 5yo insists that this post have a dancing banana and a jumping jacks smilie, so here we go. . . . :banana: :yay:

[Frantasmic]

How often do they get the shutterbug? Is it only when you are taking pictures?

I was at a wedding yesterday and a family was letting a 4-5 year old run around with their camera. He had it on a strap and was doing okay...until he forgot to put the strap on his neck and ran down a few stairs and dropped the camera on the sidewalk. It was the family's "good" camera, judging by the reaction they had.

Anyway, if they are likely to take pictures on their own, your idea of a camera for them is a good idea. But, at 4, they will drop and possibly break whatever camera you get them at some point, IMO.

Is it possible to get some of the disposable cameras? As long as they aren't taking a ton of photos, those my do better in the long run.

However, if they are like my son and are just taking a lot of silly pictures on occasion, than a digital one is a decent idea. If you can control what you actually print and download with a digital camera, then the risk of breaking a camera may outweigh the cost of disposable ones.

Samsung makes a pretty decent, inexpensive camera that takes decent shots. I think I got it for about $70 at Ritz/Wolf camera. I got it for my somewhat older father because his first digital camera I got him was starting to take some fuzzy shots.

[Rob_Drebel]

I purchased my son (6 years old) a low end Nikon since it was only a few more dollars ($20) than a Fisher Price model. I could tell that my son (while using my other P&S) would always make sure that he put the strap around his wrist.
One other option would be to get a neckstrap as P7S are so light now. that way if they let go of it, it will not go crashing to the floor.
Spend a little extra, get a better camera. Just watch them initially with it and remond them to put the strap on.

[Donold_Fan]

My DS, 5, is constantly asking to take pictures. His daycare lady bought a disposable camera for his 5th birthday party and she gave it to him afterward. There were a few shots left, and he loved taking them. He kept asking for a new one (never did get the shots developed on the one). Once, he even put a double pack on the checkout lane at Target without my noticing, until he took it out of the bag in the car.

Anyway, a few weeks ago, I stumbled on a deal for a 7MP Polaroid (i737) for $15 from Walgreens. I picked one up for both my DD (12) and DS (5). They had a blast taking pictures at WDW earlier this month. I have a 40D, with my older Rebel XT as my spare body. DD asked to take the Rebel on our last day and really concentrated on composing her shots. Both of them have really been bitten by the camera bug.

Anyway, I'm all over suggesting getting a cheap P&S for your kid, rather than a toy camera. Even a used 2 or 3 MP off of eBay would be better IMO.

Here's a photo of DS5 taking a picture of Pal Mickey while we were waiting to be seated at Liberty Tree Tavern.
http://lhamon.smugmug.com/photos/399704003_A9seN-L.jpg

[bnorm27]

I love the fact that my kids have started to show an interest in my hobby. I have at times, allowed them to use my P&S digital camera (Kodak Z750), albeit under constant supervision. So far, other then a few fingerprints on the lens, they have done well with it. I did let them push the shutter for a few pics with the DSLR, but it was mounted on a tripod, and I was really all over them. They had also used a REALLY old P&S digital (1MP) I believe. They wore out the battery and filled the memory card in a few hours. Interesting what they took pics of, and also interesting looking at things from the point of view of a 6 and 4 year old.

No time like the present to teach them to take care of the camera. And if you can get one super cheap, it's all the better.

[Mckymousefn]

I just got my daughter this one...she will be getting it next Tues. for her bday. http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-S860-8-1-Megapixel-Digital-Camera-Pink-S860PINK/sem/rpsm/oid/205987/catOid/-13062/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

But when i got it, it was on sale for $79.99 My daughter is going to be 10yrs. old though.

[Pea-n-Me]

I know, why get a 4 year old a camera.
It may be elsewhere, but around here, this isn't a silly question at all. ;)

I don't know how to answer, though. When my kids were that age, I didn't have digital, and I didn't want to waste expensive film and processing (unlike with digital pics today which can just be deleted). I did let my kids take pictures using my camera with my help, though.

Today, I'm not sure about what I'd buy, because as you say, the cheap kiddie ones are just awful, and the better ones have a good chance at getting broken.

It was always important to me to teach the kids respect for the camera, regardless of what it was, just like anything else that's expensive/important. So I'd probably buy a decent, simple camera at as low a price I could find, but work with them on using it and try to keep it so that he only uses it with supervision. (Definitely wouldn't be running around a wedding with it.) If there is an accident, then so be it - but I'd try to avoid that if possible by keeping the strap on, paying attention, putting it back in its case, etc.

I bought my son a used Canon S2 IS on Craigslist when he was about 9 and worked with him on using it. He's been respectful with it, so now, two years later, I'm pretty comfortable letting him use my dSLR at home. Every now and then I download pictures and find some that he's taken with it, like this one, from my yard, using macro:

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y69/paulandlinda/PA017125.jpg

Good luck! I do think that nurturing kids in photography is giving them a great, lifelong gift.

[GabbyMom]

I bought DD3 a camera to go to my cousins graduation. it was the crayola kids camera. Never again. literally everything that could go wrong did. The camera won't shut off, it won't stop taking pictures, the flash either won't stop flashing or doesn't work, and I can't get the pictures to download, all this right out of the box. If I had had the time back then I would have returned it.

now she uses her Uncle Monkey's P&S. a little random but not bad for 3 years old.

I'm looking at getting her a simple P&S for Christmas. That or the toy Castle from WDW.

[Groucho]

I would definitely go with an older digital PnS over one designed to be a kid's camera.

My son has been using our old Minolta X20 2mp camera since he was about 3. (He's about 3 1/2 now.) He loves taking pictures with it and pretty quickly figured out the basics, including reviewing the photos after taking them. The hardest part is holding the button down long enough as the camera has fairly serious shutter lag! This particular camera is worth maybe $35 on eBay so it or one like it would be an inexpensive buy if you don't already have an older digital PnS lying around. This one is also nice as the lens does not extend out of the front of the camera, which may make it a little less fragile.

Here he is using it...

http://www.totalsham.com/pics/gallery/36891-4/2008WG-Historic-JnJ.jpg

He's taken some interesting photos with it...

His radio-controlled Ratatouille ($5 from disneyoutlet and worth every penny!):

http://www.cathythelibrarian.com/gallery/d/1267-2/Jacks-011.JPG

Lotus Esprit spoiler...

http://www.cathythelibrarian.com/gallery/d/1291-2/Jacks-017.JPG

He likes to pose things, here's Bullseye on his rocking horse.

http://www.cathythelibrarian.com/gallery/d/1319-2/Jacks-024.JPG

He even managed a self-portrait!

http://www.cathythelibrarian.com/gallery/d/1251-2/Jacks-007.JPG

He also likes using the viewfinder on the SLR cameras but I haven't let him actually take any pictures with them yet!

[DisneydaveCT]

I have found some good deals on Kodak.com when getting one for my DD. It is a refurbished camera, but it works well. It minimizes my investment until I find out how strong her interest is in photography.

[RustManFan]

My DD had her own film camera when she was 3. Now 29 and still LOVES to take pics. Was good way of teaching her the responsibility of caring for her belongings too. She really did take some nice shots and has a lifelong love of photography!

I would not ever go with the Fisher Price alternative....

[MNFootballMommy]

If you want good pics, do NOT go with the kids' version camera. DD3 has the V-Tech and it is fine for her--she poses her toys, etc., but the pictures are grainy and the color is crappy. Flash is usually too bright and pics are too dark without it. Stick with a low-end 'real' camera...you'll be glad you did!

[pdarrah]

This probably doesn't help the OP much, since my son is quite a bit older (9) but when he wanted a "real" camera for our vacation this summer (DCL Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise!) I encouraged him to spend some of his birthday money on a P&S.

He actually bought it at Aldi (the grocery store) and it is their house brand (but in reality is a Vivitar). It isn't an amazing camera, but it isn't bad for $60! (6 megapixel) Since he spent his OWN money on it, he is being pretty careful. I was shocked at how quickly he figured out all the controls - within a couple hours he was using the various picture modes, shooting small videos, etc. - and even at only 9, he is still a "guy" and did NOT read the manual :rotfl2:

pdarrah

[tripodjw]

and even at only 9, he is still a "guy" and did NOT read the manual :rotfl2:

pdarrah


Does anyone read the manual nowadays? :rolleyes1

When i was a kid (maybe about 5 or 6 yrs old) my parents bought me a really cheap film PnS - it was a normal one not a kiddie version, prob only cost about £15 (that'd be maybe US$30).

I loved it. I would take pics of the stuff i cared about - not stupid pictures of landscapes or buildings - how boring (well it is when you're 5). I loved taking pictures of animals, toys, flowers and people.

Most of the pics were terrible - BUT it has left me with a love of photography (no skill but definately love). That love is the most precious part of that simple gift of a cheap adult camera.

[RadioNate]

DS loves to take photos. I do even often let him use my dSLR so I was thinking about giving him a camera for Christmas.

I have a Canon SD630 that I hate but I'm not sure he'd be happy with a hand me done that he knows I don't think highly of.

Any thoughts on something durable, that takes good shots and doesn't cost a fortune?

[allie5]

Ive recently bought my 6 yr old the Fuji FZ10. The reason I chose it was two fold - first the zoom is built in, and in my experience the first thing kids do is knock the zoom rendering it useless, so this was a feature I wanted! Second, ease of use - to turn it on you simply slide the lens cover back and then you are ready to shoot - to turn it off you slide it back so no chance of the lens being left exposed to scratches!

This camera comes in 5 groovy colours so its a great choice for kids. Im in the UK so prices are probably not comparable with US ones but I paid about £60 British Pounds which is pretty good for a decent but kid friendly camera!

[S. C.]

Ive recently bought my 6 yr old the Fuji FZ10. The reason I chose it was two fold - first the zoom is built in, and in my experience the first thing kids do is knock the zoom rendering it useless, so this was a feature I wanted! Second, ease of use - to turn it on you simply slide the lens cover back and then you are ready to shoot - to turn it off you slide it back so no chance of the lens being left exposed to scratches!

This camera comes in 5 groovy colours so its a great choice for kids. Im in the UK so prices are probably not comparable with US ones but I paid about £60 British Pounds which is pretty good for a decent but kid friendly camera!
Do you have a link for this camera?

I've searched Amazon and other places and cannot find this camera! Is this one only in the UK? :confused: Sounds like a good one for my grandson.

[allie5]

Ooops, sorry, got the model number wrong...its the Fuji Z10

Here is the link to Amazon (your US site!)...

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw_2_8?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=fuji+z10fd&sprefix=fuji+z10

My son has the blue one. Hope that helps.

Allie

[S. C.]

Ooops, sorry, got the model number wrong...its the Fuji Z10

Here is the link to Amazon (your US site!)...

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw_2_8?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=fuji+z10fd&sprefix=fuji+z10

My son has the blue one. Hope that helps.

Allie

:thanks:

[Kim&Chris]

Another great beginner camera is the Canon A470. I bought one for my niece and it was perfect for her; easy to use and it took great pictures. You can get one for about $100, give or take.

I like allie5's idea, though. Having the zoom inside is great for kids.

[MarkBarbieri]

We bought our kids a Pentax W30. I wanted something waterproof so that I wouldn't have to worry about him taking it into the pool, rain, etc. I think that Olympus makes one that is both waterproof and shock resistant.

[Handbag Lady]

RadioNate!

Our Canon SD630 was stolen from our room on our last trip to WDW two weeks ago. (Long story!)


I LOVED that camera! I'm not a photographer but I had just learned where all the settings are!!! If you want to sell the Canon let me know! I can't find it for my price-range on ebay.

[RadioNate]

RadioNate!

Our Canon SD630 was stolen from our room on our last trip to WDW two weeks ago. (Long story!)


I LOVED that camera! I'm not a photographer but I had just learned where all the settings are!!! If you want to sell the Canon let me know! I can't find it for my price-range on ebay.

I will let you know if I decide to sell it. I do love the size. I just take a lot of night time and indoor shots that don't turn out well.

[traces7]

Can anyone recommend something that is easy to use, not too expensive, but still takes good pics and video?

I have a Canon Powershot A620, so I was leaning toward Canon, but doesn't have to be.
I saw a Canon Powershot A470 at Walmart for $79. Anyone know anything about this camera, it's the one I was leaning toward.
I saw some Vivitar cameras for around $50, but can't find much info about them.

Any help is appreciated! Thanks!:goodvibes

[jrc-elpaso]

10 is a great age to get started in photography. Try www.dpreview.com. The website has lots of info on all kinds of cameras. I looked at the specs for the Canon and it looks like a nice little camera for a young lady (wish they'd had digital cameras when I was a kid). Quite a few nice features (including settings for things like fireworks, etc.). In fact it's got higher resolution and more zoom capability than my first digital camera from about 4 years ago. Although I think I would see if I could find one with a viewfinder - but that's my preference. I just got a Fuji waterproof camera for Disney World (water rides and if it rains) but it just has the LCD and I'm going to have to really practice with it since I'm used to a viewfinder.

[YesDear]

I would stick with a major brand like canon or nikon or fuji, etc.

[jann1033]

http://www.steves-digicams.com/best_cameras.html
he has a list of ' best" cameras, scroll down till you see the p&s.
here's the review for that one http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/canon_a470_pg5.html
i got my granddaughter( she is 4) a best buy insignia brand and am shocked at how good the photos are( daughter and son in law used it more than her canon p&s on vacation). she wanted "blue" and that was the most limiting factor of my purchase:) but if you can get the canon for that cheap i would probably go with it.
the 4 yr old has not problem but i on the other hand have a hard time using it due to not being used to the lcd screen

[Khokhonutt]

Personally I'd lean towards something like the Powershot A470 you're looking at. Look for something you would use. Maybe even look around and see if any local photo shops offer rentals for you to try.

My daughter wanted a digital camera around the same age, granted it was a few years ago and options were different, but we opted for a kids' camera, rather than something an adult would use. In our case, the kids' camera seriously lacked quality and performance that even she noticed. She rarely used it until we handed down one of our cameras at upgrade time.

I wished we had gotten her a better camera. In her case she was responsible enough to take care of the camera and would have gotten better use out of it. Worst case, if she doesn't use it, it gives you a backup. :)

Jeff

[Todd_H]

I'm in the same boat. My DD(almost 8) has a real interest in photography and video. I recently gave her our old Sony camcorder (in which the zoom is broken and it has no real value, but still works as a video "prime") and she loves shooting movies. I want to see how responsible she can be in taking care of it before I spend the money on a p&s for her. I think she's too young to learn any technical aspects, but I figure I'm encouraging that creative side by giving her something to "play" with, right?

[MichelleinMaine]

I was a little nervous with DS (then 12) having a digi camera- and leaving somewhere, losing it, etc. On the flip side though, I wanted pics of his boy scouts trips for the old scrapbook. :thumbsup2

I found someone who was upgrading their camera, and bought their old one for $20. It's an older Canon, only 3mp, and the video is wonky. It takes decent enough pics though and the price was right! Just an other option to throw out there.

[My2Girls66]

I bought my DD a Samsung S860 recently. Pink $95, silver $80 from amazon. I got hers at Kohls on sale for $99 and I had a 15% discount.
Seems like a decent camera. I didn't want to spend a lot since she isn't the most careful kid(15) in the world. Her Coolpix L6 just bit the dust after around 18 months in her hands so she's not horrible just a bit carefree with her electronics. Lens error- I suspect sand from our Florida trip or maybe the fact that she can't seem to put it in its case when she throws it in her bag:rolleyes:
I have a Canon p&s that I really like- I wouldn't be afraid of the A470 if the price is right.

[Frantasmic]

The camera deal you found at Walmart seems really good for that camera. I'd go with that. I agree with others: stick with Nikon or Canon. I'd forego Vivitar, Polaroid and Kodak (in that price range).

Samsung also has some decent inexpensive cameras that are great for beginners too.

[waytoomanywebkinz]

Both of my girls (now 12 and almost 9) have gotten Samsung cameras over the past two years (one last summer, one the previous summer) - they are both pretty good little cameras! The more recent model (last summer) was the Samsung 860 in bright blue. The Samsung 73 was in pink - and they are essentially the same camera.

I have been impressed with both and my girls love them. Several friends have seen theirs and moms have played with them and gone out and bought their own Samsungs.

I am kind of a camera snob (not like you hard-core dslr people, but I have an S5 and a XSI ) - but I didn't want to buy a piece of crap or a "toy camera" - I thought these were good for kids - good quality - good price - I have been pleased!

[traces7]

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I bought the Canon A470 that I was thinking of buying. I ended up having to go to a dfferent Walmart, the one I saw it at earlier sold out. Luckily there's another Walmart close by and they had a bunch of them.
Hope my DD likes it! Her birthday is Sunday. Thanks again!:goodvibes

[floridascgirl]

My son is a budding videographer. Right now he uses his Nikon Coolpix camera to make all his videos. He's been loving it, but it can be rather tedious having to balance it on a table when shooting himself. We are hoping to get him a small hand-held video camera for Christmas, but we have no clue how to pick one out. He mostly does a lot of self video taping and "stop-action" movies that he posts on YouTube and sends to friends and family. We will also be using this camera for our trips to Disney and recording his piano recitals...we would also like it to record decently in low-light. Our price range is $300-$400, I think.

I would greatly appreciate any camera recommendations and/or places to purchase it. :worship:

[floridascgirl]

Any advice out there? I really an clueless as to where to begin.

[YesDear]

Have you looked at a Flip? Small easy to use and around $200

[floridascgirl]

Yes, I actually have the newest Flip through my work. It's a great little camera, but we are looking for something a bit more advanced. We want one that shoots well in dim lighting or for evening. Also, the Flip's editing software was too basic for my son. He said it's tedious to transfer its video to other editing software. Any other suggestions are more than welcome. :)

[GoofyG]

I'm looking for a camera for my DD6. Would like a rechargeable battery, but ok if it doesn't. Don't want to spend alot of money either. Any ideas?

[photo_chick]

A lot depends on the kid. How responsible is your kid? How techno savvy are they? Will they be happy with one of the under ten dollar point and shoots, or do you want something a little higher quality?

If you're unsure, you can always start out on the uber cheap end then go up once they prove responsible and ready for something more.

Most of the little point and shoots take AA's. I usually use rechagable ones in my kids point and shoots.

Just remember with kids and any electronics, be prepared for them to accidentally break it. Mine never have, and they've both had cameras in their hands since they were able to hold one. But I'm still prepared for it to happen.

[GoofyG]

A lot depends on the kid. How responsible is your kid? How techno savvy are they? Will they be happy with one of the under ten dollar point and shoots, or do you want something a little higher quality?

If you're unsure, you can always start out on the uber cheap end then go up once they prove responsible and ready for something more.

Most of the little point and shoots take AA's. I usually use rechagable ones in my kids point and shoots.

Just remember with kids and any electronics, be prepared for them to accidentally break it. Mine never have, and they've both had cameras in their hands since they were able to hold one. But I'm still prepared for it to happen.

She has had a cheap one but has asked for one that will zoom. She likes to use everyones camera now, but I don't want her using our exspensive ones, lol. She is pretty good with her electronics. I still don't want exs[ensive, but i'm willing to be in the $100 range if I need to.

[ssanders79]

It might cost a little more, but consider looking at a model that has some sort of shock resistance. Even very careful kids will drop the camera here and there.

[YesDear]

Since my baby is almost 28 now it has been a while since I have dealt with 6 year olds. I have had some friends that have gotten friends to give or sell them their older cameras when they upgrade. Also check out craigslist. A used working P&S will give you a better camera and you will not be afraid if something happens to it.

[Daisy14'sDH]

THey make well protected childrens digital cameras, IQ isnt great but the child is 6. My DD (5) has one of these and is more than happy ysing it. It has internal memory and takes AA batteries, she can make movies with it that occupy her and her brother for hours when Dad remembers to put batteries in it. I'm pretty sure its a Playskool product.

[Frantasmic]

Each of the office warehouse stores has a camera for under $100 in their ads this week. They are all going to have about the same features at that price.

Office Max has a deal where you can print off an online coupon and go to the store and get a Kodak M340 for about $59.00.

I'd check overstock.com as well.

Additionally, check out this 2009 holiday buying guide for under $150 cameras:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/knowledge-center/2009-digital-camera-holiday-gift-guide---part-1.html

Here's another good deal through the end of the week:

Kodak EasyShare Z915 10 MP Digital Camera $58 at Dell Business (http://forums.steves-digicams.com/deals/view.php?id=1164)



http://forums.steves-digicams.com/deals/deals-images/1164_img69413m.jpg (http://forums.steves-digicams.com/deals/view.php?id=1164)
Dell Business has the Kodak EasyShare Z915 10 Megapixel Digital Camera for $58 with free shipping.

2.5" LCD screen, 10X optical zoom, 5X digital zoom, 1.5fps burst mode
Optical Image Stabilization, 32MB internal memory, SD/SDHC card slot

[photo_chick]

Run far, far away from the "kid" cameras. They have horrid image quality and are over priced junk, IMO. And from experience, they do not hold up any better than a normal camera.

Your child is 6 so I'm thinking going into first grade, right? If you're willing to go up to $100 (which is reasonable IMO if they've expressed some serious interest) then there are a lot of cameras to choose from. I'd look at a Canon or Fuji in that price range that has the features you want. If your child wants more zoom... $100 will get you 3x pretty easily but not much more.

And keep video in mind. I got my DD a Fuji S1000 when it first came out for her 8th birthday and she loved the video mode more than taking still pictures.

From my point of view... My kids were both using SLR's when they were in first grade. My DD a 35mm SLR and my son proclaimed my old DSLR as his when I got my new one. They've done well with them as long as we follow the one rule that applies to everyone in the house... always keep the camera strap around your neck. If the camera only has a wrist strap on it, I put a neck strap on it. A camera is like Wiimote.. a lot less likely to crash to the ground, or fly into the TV, if it's strapped to you.

[GoofyG]

Each of the office warehouse stores has a camera for under $100 in their ads this week. They are all going to have about the same features at that price.

Office Max has a deal where you can print off an online coupon and go to the store and get a Kodak M340 for about $59.00.

I'd check overstock.com as well.

Additionally, check out this 2009 holiday buying guide for under $150 cameras:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/knowledge-center/2009-digital-camera-holiday-gift-guide---part-1.html

Here's another good deal through the end of the week:

Kodak EasyShare Z915 10 MP Digital Camera $58 at Dell Business (http://forums.steves-digicams.com/deals/view.php?id=1164)



http://forums.steves-digicams.com/deals/deals-images/1164_img69413m.jpg (http://forums.steves-digicams.com/deals/view.php?id=1164)
Dell Business has the Kodak EasyShare Z915 10 Megapixel Digital Camera for $58 with free shipping.

2.5" LCD screen, 10X optical zoom, 5X digital zoom, 1.5fps burst mode
Optical Image Stabilization, 32MB internal memory, SD/SDHC card slot

I like that kodak, I may go check it out. 3x zoom is plenty, her last one didn't zoom at all and she wants a big girl camera. lol

Yes, she is going into 1st grade. I have a hand held kodak video that we use.

[Daisy14'sDH]

Run far, far away from the "kid" cameras. They have horrid image quality and are over priced junk, IMO. And from experience, they do not hold up any better than a normal camera.

Your child is 6 so I'm thinking going into first grade, right? If you're willing to go up to $100 (which is reasonable IMO if they've expressed some serious interest) then there are a lot of cameras to choose from. I'd look at a Canon or Fuji in that price range that has the features you want. If your child wants more zoom... $100 will get you 3x pretty easily but not much more.

And keep video in mind. I got my DD a Fuji S1000 when it first came out for her 8th birthday and she loved the video mode more than taking still pictures.

From my point of view... My kids were both using SLR's when they were in first grade. My DD a 35mm SLR and my son proclaimed my old DSLR as his when I got my new one. They've done well with them as long as we follow the one rule that applies to everyone in the house... always keep the camera strap around your neck. If the camera only has a wrist strap on it, I put a neck strap on it. A camera is like Wiimote.. a lot less likely to crash to the ground, or fly into the TV, if it's strapped to you.

I never read the $100 limit part of his post, IMHO most kids take not so great photos anyway so image quality should be of less concern as durability. I've got countless photos of the dogs nose and ladybugs to last me a lifetime. My DD's camera has gone through darkest pits of heck and is still ticking. If you can afford to lose a DSLR to a kid all the power to you however All they have to do is miss there mouth when they take a drink of milk and your DSLR or P&S is toast.... I'm sure there are exceptions out there with kids who never spill anything or run on asphalt and trip but mine on occasion do make mistakes like that.
I gave DS 10 a Kodak 10.1 mp (I cant remember the model) last year and am happy with that but he has proven to be careful enough with sensitive electronics to warrant it. I have a lot of pics of peoples feet to prove it!!! lol.

[funkychunkymonkey]

I like that kodak, I may go check it out. 3x zoom is plenty, her last one didn't zoom at all and she wants a big girl camera. lol

Yes, she is going into 1st grade. I have a hand held kodak video that we use.

I second looking on creigslist, We bought a kodak easy share (not sure what model) for $30 for my DC 7. She loves that its easy to use and has a easy to use menu. With recharagable batteries, and a extra memory card, it seems to work great for her.

[DawnM]

I always buy 2nd hand cameras for my kids.

There are a few advantages to this:

1. The depreciation value is already built in. About 4 to 5 years ago I bought my two younger kids each 3.0 mp used cameras for $25 each. I just sold them both on ebay for the same $25 I spent! So, they got a free camera for 4 years!

2. I don't care if they have an accident or lose them so much. So far, neither of these things has happened though.

3. Usually 2nd hand cameras come with "extras" that would cost quite a bit. the person selling often sells it with the carrying case, a memory card and sometimes extra batteries, etc.....

I am currently looking for a deal for my 10 year old. I got my 12 year old a new (to him) camera about a month ago. It is a bridge camera (somewhere between a P&S and DSLR) as he is getting almost to the point of wanting a DSLR in the next couple of years.

But I am asking friends if they have any and I am checking Craigslist.

As far as the kid's camera....I agree with the PP.....very poor picture quality, my computer won't even read the pictures, and the view screen is so tiny you can barely see the picture.

Dawn

[photo_chick]

I never read the $100 limit part of his post, IMHO most kids take not so great photos anyway so image quality should be of less concern as durability. I've got countless photos of the dogs nose and ladybugs to last me a lifetime. My DD's camera has gone through darkest pits of heck and is still ticking. If you can afford to lose a DSLR to a kid all the power to you however All they have to do is miss there mouth when they take a drink of milk and your DSLR or P&S is toast.... I'm sure there are exceptions out there with kids who never spill anything or run on asphalt and trip but mine on occasion do make mistakes like that.
I gave DS 10 a Kodak 10.1 mp (I cant remember the model) last year and am happy with that but he has proven to be careful enough with sensitive electronics to warrant it. I have a lot of pics of peoples feet to prove it!!! lol.

I'm well aware that my kids are the extreme freaks in the room and I didn't mean to imply that I think the OP should put a DSLR in her kids hands. Most kids are not up for that. I was just giving my perspective

My kids are better photographers than I am. I think mainly because they do have a very different view of the world than me. They get shots I'd never think of.

Also think about this... people don't think twice about putting a Nintendo DS in a kids hands brand new but people tend to balk at putting a similarly priced new camera in the same child's hands. Why is that? The DS is just as fragile as a camera. Actually, more so. just some food for thought.

[Daisy14'sDH]

Lol, boh my kids have DS and DSi's, But they are stationary while using it. I understand the analogy though. I am more nervous with them playing baseball! A ball through a window is not cheap, and dents in the car suck!

[Experiment_626]

I'm following this thread closely, as we have an almost five-year-old who has begun to show an interest in photography ...

[MinnieForMe]

Speaking of kids and cameras, I almost cried the other day at my 3rd grade son's science fair. A 9 year old was carrying around his D90. Yup - I had a point and shoot.

I was planning on sharing my new Pentax with my 12 year old but looking on CraigsList for a bridge camera might be a better idea! Thanks.

[Donold_Fan]

I would second the recommendation on video ability. I stumbled into a deal a couple of years ago when my DS was 5. I was able to get both he and his 12yo sister 7MP Polaroid for $15 each. At the time I was mostly just wanting to get him away from my point and shoots and thought if it would get him through the "phase" and get a few weeks out of it, it would be a great investment.

2 years later, DD14 doesn't know where her camera is, but DD7 still uses his weekly. He's really into making videos with action figures with it. From our experience, go with a camera that takes AA's and invest in some rechargeables (he flies through batteries). He doesn't have a computer, so he watches his videos primarily on the camera lcd.

On Memorial day I went out to take some pictures of cemeteries and flags and he carried his right along with me. We took them to get developed and he proudly took his prints to school to show off. When I picked him up that day, I pulled up to the school and noticed a large crowd of teachers huddled around someone. It was my son, proudly showing off his photographs.

Sorry to make that such a long post, but I really wanted to encourage you to get a camera with video ability and I think it's worth the extra $$$ on a "real" camera, the beaming smile on my son's face as the teachers all complimented him on his photos would make a $100 investment worthwhile.

[decomouse]

I lean towards being in photo_chick's camp. My girls are now 17 and almost 23, so it's been a long time since they were small. I've always gotten them cameras where they can make "real" photos. When they were 6yo it was film and we have lots of interesting prints from short people's points of views. The main thing I would suggest is trying to get the features your daughter is requesting. That's the kind of thing that can help keep photography interesting for children. Video has never been important to any of us, so that is not a feature we have pursued. But both my girls also enjoyed using a zoom lens.

If you choose a camera that used AA batteries, I have found the rechargeables to be much more efficient. We always kept an extra set on hand charged and ready to go.

Anyone can drop a camera, including adults. By getting children cameras from an early age and teaching them to be careful (we too have the rule about the strap around the neck!) they tend to be more cautious with the more expensive equipment. At least in our experience. And getting used equipment might be a good option for you.

When I switched to digital it was a Coolpix 950. When I upgraded to a 990, I passed the 950 to DD#1. When I upgraded again to 995, DD#2 got the 950 and DD#1 got the 990, and so forth. Currently I have a D90 and both girls have a D50. (DD#1 got hers new and DD#2 got my old one when I got the D90 Xmas '08.) One of the things we really enjoy doing after we get home is comparing shots to see each of our different perspectives. We all tend to look for different things and often little things. But one afternoon I was at the T&TC while the girls were at MK and a triple rainbow appeared. That night when we reconvened it was all, "Did you see the rainbows???" We all have good shots of those from different locations.

I hope your daughter has a wonderful time with her new camera!

[Gianna'sPapa]

You may want to look at the Pentax Optio E series. They are simplified cameras with large buttons and they take excellent images. Over a year ago, I bought an E70 for my DGD (age 7 at the time). It is a 10 mp, 3x zoom. She does a good job with it and it isn't overly complicated.

[GoofyG]

Thanks everyone for the info on camera. I got her a vivitar for $40 8meg and a 4 zoom. Not much but she is happy with it, it will help her learn then she can move to a newer camera. I gave it to her today and she was going around taking pictures of everything! I do need to work on not so close with a flash on, i'm still seeing spots!!!:rotfl:

[MidgeD79]

My 12 year old son would like a digital camera. I really don't know a whole lot about them - coldmmenda resonaably priced starter camera? Thanks

[My2Girls66]

This looks decent. I've been looking at it to replace my Canon p&s that just bit the dust. Its for hiking so I don't want to spend a lot.

http://www.adorama.com/ICAA490.html