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BY TOM WATSON

Kids can take pictures too. They develop a curiosity about picture taking and photography at a very early age as a result of being photographed often through their childhood. Just take a look at their faces when they see themselves portrayed in a photograph.

So, get them involved in photography and let them take some photos. This is a wonderful opportunity to view the world as your child sees it. Kids have a perspective all their own, so why not give them a chance to show you? With some guidance from you, they will be thrilled to be given the chance.

You can teach your child the basics on your own camera, but if he or she shows enthusiasm, it would be a great idea to get him a camera of his own. The camera that is just right for you may not be the best for your child. The size of the camera does matter, as well as its simplicity of use.

Choosing a camera for your child will not be difficult. When they are just starting out in photography all the bells and whistles on a digital camera are not necessary. Keep it simple so your child will not get discouraged and confused.

A lot of guidance from you cannot be stressed enough. Let your child see how you care for your camera and equipment and give them an example to follow. As a tip for you, before purchasing a digital camera for your young child, get him or her a disposable, waterproof camera to see how it gets treated. Kids are not always very gentle with things and this is a great way to teach them responsibility with camera equipment. After a trial period such as this, by all means get them a good camera.

They are eager to learn, so be patient and show them how to hold the camera while keeping their fingers out of the way, how to turn the camera on and off, how to use the focus feature and the zoom. Do not try to teach them everything all in one lesson. They want to learn, but a lot of information all at once can be very overwhelming for them.

When your child gets the basics of using a camera, take note of the subjects he chooses to photograph. You may be in for a surprise. As mentioned earlier, your child has a much different perspective of the world we live in. Embrace the things they see through a camera lens and help them improve on the quality of photos. Encouragement goes a long way here.

Another tip would be to give him or her a photo assignment. This will help your son or daughter spark their imagination and get their creative juices flowing. Perhaps both of you will learn some things together and create a mutual bond.

Tom Watson is the owner of In Digital Photography, a growing website with tips, advice, products and resources on digital photography and starting a photography business.