why teach photography to children

This article explores the surprising and profound benefits of teaching photography to kids, from developing their artistic expression to sharpening their observation skills. This awakens a unique way of seeing the world. Get ready to see the bigger picture!

Let's dive in and look at the various benefits that kids receive when they learn about photography.

7 Benefits Of Teaching Photography To Kids

Teaching photography to kids offers a wealth of benefits that contribute to their development in various ways. Here are 7 key advantages:

1. Creativity

Learning photography boosts creativity and self-expression. Photography provides a powerful outlet for children to express themselves and their unique vision of the world. They learn to compose images the way they want, experiment with perspective and lighting, and discover creative ways to tell a visual story. This encourages "out-of-the-box" thinking and innovation.

2. Confidence

Photography builds confidence and self-Esteem As children capture images they are proud of, and especially when they receive positive feedback for their work, their confidence and sense of accomplishment grow. This recognition reinforces their self-worth and encourages them to share their creations.

3. Bond With Nature

Encourages Connection to Nature and the World Around Them: Photography often inspires children to explore the outdoors and engage with their environment. As they search for subjects in nature or capture everyday scenes, they develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

4. Physical Development

Walking around searching for subjects to photograph gets the body moving, Also, another benefit is the enhancement of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination. Handling a camera, pressing buttons, adjusting settings, and framing a shot all require precise fine motor skills and coordination between what children's' eyes see and how their hands move. Regular practice refines these essential skills.

5. Critical Thinking

Taking photographs improves critical thinking and problem solving. Children must think critically about what they want to capture, how to compose the shot, and what elements to include or exclude. They learn to adapt camera settings to different lighting conditions and unexpected subjects, sharpening their decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

6. Patience

Taking pictures sometimes requires patience and discipline: Photography often requires waiting for the "perfect moment" to capture a shot. This teaches children the value of patience and persistence, as children learn that good results often come from waiting and focusing attention.

7. Observation

Photographers need to use observation skills and attention to detail. To take good photographs, children must become more observant of their surroundings. They learn to pay attention to details, patterns, colors, and moments that others might overlook, enhancing their cognitive awareness and situational awareness.

how to teach photography to children

Pre-teen children critiquing an old photograph

From teaching several classes to kids, I've found that using three learning methods works best. These include

1. VERBAL AMD VISUAL. In my workshops I a use a fully illustrated PowerPoint presentation, and in-class demos combined with verbal explanation of specific photography topics.
2. KINESNESTIC. Hands-on camera experimentation and experiences through photography "projects" that cover the concepts learned. The photography projects for kids are lots of fun for the kids and are a great way to learn the concepts.
3. REVIEWS. Critique by the students and instructor of the photographs taken in class or out in the field or intriguing photographs taken by other photographers. 

I hope you found this post helpful. See related articles on kids and cameras below my signature.

ABOUT BRUCE LOVELACE

Bruce is the publisher of this website. He is the author of the book "Improve Your Photography Instantly."  Read more on Bruce on his Bio Page. He's been known as The Traveling Photographer ever since 1994. Read more about this website.

View some of Bruce's photos on Instagram.   Visit the Facebook Page. Watch him on YouTube.  Bruce runs photo workshops for kids and adults, and provides one-on-one photography coaching.

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