Camera Basics for Kids: AGES 8-12 (Austin Class)

Young Photographer Academy with Stephanie Saldivar

AGES 8-12

What makes a great photograph? Is it the camera, the subject, or something else entirely?  Join nature photographer and educator Stephanie Saldivar for a fun, interactive introduction to photography designed specifically for young creators. In this hands-on workshop, students will discover how photographers use light, perspective, and storytelling to create images that capture attention and spark curiosity.  Through engaging demonstrations and creative challenges, participants will learn the difference between flat and dynamic photographs, how lighting can completely change the mood of an image, and simple techniques for making photos more interesting and intentional.  Students will have the opportunity to experiment with cameras mounted on tripods, photograph a variety of props, and create their own mini photo shoots. They'll explore different angles, lighting styles, and creative compositions while learning how photographers see the world differently through a lens.  No prior photography experience is necessary. Whether your child loves taking pictures on a phone or is curious about using a camera for the first time, this workshop is designed to encourage creativity, build confidence, and inspire a lifelong appreciation for visual storytelling.

BIO:

All equipment will be provided during the workshop.

Doors open @ 2 pm
Class starts @ 2:30
Q&A/ mingle 4-5

Young Photographers Academy

A Beginner Photography Workshop for Kids

1. Welcome & icebreaker

• Begin with Q&A to spark curiosity and conversation

• Show various photos, asking “Which one do you like best and why?” to get them to think like photographers

2. Learning what makes a great photograph

1. Light changes everything

• Perform lighting techniques, asking “Which one looks more interesting?”

• Explain that photographers don’t just photograph things, they photograph light

2. Photos with depth

• Present a flat photo vs. a photo with depth, asking “Which one feels like you could step inside?”

• Explain that photographs created with layers make them feel real

3. Tell a story

• Photos should answer “What is it?” and “Why should I care?”

• Display two different photos, asking “Which one gives us a story?”

• Ask for someone to create a story

3. Camera exploration stations

1. Simple challenge: no technical explanations, focus on comfort and confidence

• Find:

• Shutter button

• Zoom

• Screen

• Focus point

4. Hands-on activity #1

1. “Light Detective” challenge

• Table full of props

• Challenge: take 3 photos of the same object (front light, side light, back light)

• “Which one is the most interesting?”

5. Hands-on activity #2

1. “Change your perspective” challenge

• Challenge: photograph subject (above, ground level, close, far away)

• “Which angle makes the subject look most exciting?”

• Naturally discover the “aha” moment

6. Hands-on activity #3

1. “Create a story” mini shoot

• Kids choose: 

• Props, a friend (optional, combination of both

• Goal: create one image that tells a story

7. Group photo review

1. Choose a few images from each group

• Ask:

• What do you notice first?

• What story is being told?

• What makes this photo interesting?

• Positive feedback. Focus on creativity rather than perfection.

By the end of class, students will understand:

• How light affects a photograph

• How changing perspective changes a photo

• How photographs use foreground, middle ground, and background

• How to tell stories with images

• How to use creativity to make photos more interesting

Kids walk away feeling like photographers, excited to explore their creativity