Photography is a great way for kids to express themselves. I would know, having just exiting that highway of life. My parents always encouraged me in whatever I did, but my mother was especially excited when I got into photography. She wasn't a pro, but in my eyes she may as well have been.

Anyway getting back to the point, one good way to encourage your children is to show them opportunities when a picture could be good, but not throwing it on them. They will feel pressured and feel like they have to do it. If this occurs, more than likely, the child will stop loving photography. They may even learn to hate it. One way to help, but not pressure them, is to take the family camera (or their camera, if they have one) every interesting place. Be sure not to mention that you are bringing the camera, but pretend to use it a lot so that they notice it. Hopefully, they will take notice and ask to use it. Give it to them without hesitation.

I would, from time to time, as my parents of an idea of something to take a picture of. If this happens to you, you can do a couple of things. One thing that my parents did for me if they weren't busy was set up some sort of scene with my toys. If they didn't have much time, they would usually send me out on a mission to take a picture of something. So remember be sure to be there to help, but never to pressure your child.

Learn more about this author, Phil Elroy.
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