Children regularly have photos taken of them, but they can take incredible photos too. One of the best ways to understand a child's perspective of their world is to give them a camera.
Children can also make movies and animations! Technology is accessible and empowering for young children. They can use it to tell stories, create art, and engage in digital play.
EYLF learning outcomes
Photography and videography align with the Early Years Learning Framework. They allow children use a range of media (5.3) and technologies (4.4).
Photography and videography are experimental and involve problem solving, inquiry, hypothesising, researching and investigating (4.2), commitment, enthusiasm, persistence, curiosity, imagination, creativity and confidence (4.1).
Learning experiences
Make a self-portrait jigsaw
- Each child takes a selfie with a camera.
- Educators help the children print their photos.
- Educators help the children cut their photos into a few large pieces.
- The children can now play with a jigsaw puzzle of themselves.
- Children can swap photo puzzles with their friends.
Use different types of cameras
Unfortunately, many children (and adults) associate photos and videos with smartphones and iPads. While they provide easy-to-use cameras, there are many more options. Teach children about tools, technology, history and science by letting children use different types of cameras.
Ask your families and local photography clubs if they can demonstrate any of these cameras:
- DSLR or mirrorless
- GoPro
- Drone
- Instant
- Film
- Medium or large format
- Pinhole
Play with software
Tablets make photography and videography editing extremely easy for children. They can capture their own stories and quickly edit them on the same device. There is a wide range of free apps that children can experiment with.
Children can use software to:
- change colours, light and contrast
- crop photos into different shapes
- apply filters, even just for fun
- join videos to make a mini movie
- create stop animation films.
Document life
Find ways to include cameras in your children's daily routines, so they can capture candid moments. Explore the photos and films of Courtney Holmes for inspiration.
Remember your children are experiencing a precious and fleeting life stage. Encourage your children to take photos of their lives, exactly how they are living them. There is no need for posing and pretend smiles.
Let your children take photos from their own perspectives:
- What does it look like underneath the lunch table?
- How close can I get to that beetle?
- How many photos can I take of myself (even if they mostly look the same)?
Discussions
Describe photographs
Show your children a photograph. Ask them to tell you what they can see or what is happening.
Recognise that people have different perspectives. Your children may interpret the photo differently to you and each other.
Talk about consent
Discuss the connection between consent and taking photos:
- What can you take photos of?
- Should you ask someone first, before you take their photo?
- Is it okay to take photos of private things, like people sitting on the toilet?
Early childhood educators who allow children free access to cameras may choose to write a list of rules first, addressing important issues like consent.
Resources
The Spoke: Photography with purpose