Best cameras for kids and teens

Best cameras for kids and teens – 2023-2024

There are so many camera makes and models, it can be hard to work out which are the best cameras for kids and teens. So to make it easier for you, we have put together a list of some of our favourite entry-level cameras for kids and teenagers.

Lets first start by explaining the difference between compact, bridge, DSLR & Mirrorless cameras, so you know which would best suit your young photographer.

Our recommended Kids cameras

Compact cameras

For our kids photography courses we use compact cameras. We have carefully thought about what kids mostly use their camera for, and what it needs to make sure it can withstand the excitement of a child! So we think that these are some of the best cameras for children.

Kodak Pixpro WPZ2

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is the brand new camera on the block…Rugged shockproof, waterproof and great design! Sharp Shots will be using the Kodak Pixpro WPZ2 (above) combined with the Nikon W150 for our kids photography workshops and after-school clubs from now on.

The WPZ2 can take a drop of up to 2m, waterproof to 15m and is dustproof. Perfectly sharp photos are taken with its 16 megapixel sensor and wireless compatibility for immediate transfer of photos. With a host of ‘easy to use’ scene modes and settings to help you capture the best shot as well as superb HD video and sound. It takes a micro SD card which is super simple for downloading photos onto your computer.

This camera is perfect for kids but also ideal for adults and a great addition to a family holiday or adventure!

Pros:

• Durable
• Shockproof
• Waterproof
• Cool design
• Loads of settings to encourage creativity
• Takes superb photographs
• Easy to use
• Records photos and videos
• Small & Lightweight

Price: Approx £139.00 

 

Check out our kid’s photography courses that will help your child learn more about how to use their amazing camera creatively!

Photography Courses for Kids

Our recommended kids & teens cameras

Bridge cameras

Bridge cameras are great for both kids and teens. With easy-to-use camera modes and settings, both automatic and manual, and amazing zoom abilities without splashing out on expensive lenses too.

If you are looking for the best camera for older teenagers, we would recommend skipping to the next section on DSLRs.

Panasonic DMC-FZ330

Mirrorless

In today’s day and age, mirrorless cameras are becoming the next best thing. Think of them as a DSLR without the mirror inside. This makes them much more compact, lighter and user-friendly with high-quality tech. Mirrorless also offer better image stabilisation than DSLRs for less shaky photos, and with fewer moving parts your camera will be super quiet for those close-up animal shots! Although the ‘high tech’ side of things may seem daunting, it allows for much faster autofocus whether in photo or video mode. We see a lot of professional photographers moving across to mirrorless for the specs they have and as things are going, big companies are no longer manufacturing DSLRs and sticking to the Mirrorless cameras moving forward.

 

Entry level Mirrorless

 

Sony a6000

 

 

 

 

The Sony A6000, when it was released, had the fastest AF of any camera to date. With 24 MP and 11FPS, this camera can shoot high-quality shots at a great speed! For added convenience, the screen flips outwards allowing users to shoot at angles above or below them when looking at the screen. For a more secure hold also the camera has a compact grip built into the right side for secure holding, although we still suggest getting a strap or wrist cuff for extra security! Being a similar size of a compact camera, the back buttons may be quite difficult for larger hands, however the quality you get with a camera you can slip in a pocket or bag is incredible! All with added wifi features to share photos to your phone.

Pros: 

• Amazing picture quality
• Very lightweight in comparison to a DSLR
• Flip out screen for shooting at high and low angles
• You’re able to change the lenses for versatility
• You can shoot photos and HD video
• Connect directly to your phone with the Wifi features

Cons:

• It’s expensive when adding lens to the kit
• Batteries aren’t as powerful as DSLRs (and electronics seem to drain the power faster)
• Maybe a bit too small for larger hands
• Can be slightly complicated to use for new photographers
• With a retractable screen, the camera is quite fragile and needs to be handled with care!

 

Price: Approx £530 (including 16-50mm lens)

 

Canon M200 w/ 15-45mm lens

 

 

 

 

 

 

As an alternative to the Sony camera above, here is Canon’s version of a compact mirrorless, the M200. Again we are talking similar size to a compact camera, 24 MP although 6fps. Unfortunately, though this one does not have a hand grip like the Sony above and needs a more secure hold when shooting. This shouldn’t be an issue as it is still lightweight, even with an added lens. It’s easy to get creative too, thanks to a guided user interface and our unique Creative Assist mode. A benefit to this camera is that the screen flips all the way up (see image above) so you can have fun seeing yourself on the screen when it is in selfie mode! However, the screen cannot face downwards which wouldn’t work for those wanting to shoot with the screen above their heads. The buttons on the camera, again small, are much simpler than the Sony’s. Depending on how you see yourself as a photographer, this would be ideal for beginners, but perhaps not for those who wish to develop their skills further.

Pros: 

• Very compact and lightweight even for a mirrorless
• Controls very simple to use
• Flip out screen very suitable for selfie photos and videos
• You’re able to change the lenses for versatility
• Connect directly to your phone with the Wifi features

Cons:

• Can get pricey when adding lens to the kit
• Batteries again aren’t as powerful as DSLRs
• Even smaller than the Sony for larger hands
• Simplicity can be a holdback for avid photographers
• Screen more robust than the sony, but still needs to be handled with care

 

Price: Approx £569 (including 15-45mm lens)