Why Should My Child Learn Photography on a DSLR Camera?

Jun 25

“Why should my child learn on a DSLR when phones are so accessible and take great pictures too?”

It’s a question I hear from parents all the time—and it’s a good one. After all, phones are everywhere. They’re easy to use, they fit in your pocket, and let’s face it—they’re capable of capturing beautiful photos.

So why not just let kids stick with what they already have?
When it comes to truly learning photography—not just taking pictures—a DSLR opens up a whole new world of understanding, creativity, and confidence.

So here’s why I love starting kids off with a DSLR:

1.  It Slows Them Down (in the best way)

Phone cameras are fantastic for capturing moments quickly and easily. But with a DSLR, the process is a bit more hands-on—and that’s where the magic happens.

Kids become more aware of light, composition, focus, and subject. That shift from “point-and-shoot” to “pause-and-create” turns photo-taking into photo-making.  That slower, more mindful process builds creativity, patience, and a deeper connection with their work. It builds mindfulness and creative intention—two things that stick long after the photo is taken.  

2.  They Learn the "why" behind the picture

Phones are smart—they make decisions for you. But with a DSLR, kids get to learn how photography really works. ISO, aperture, shutter speed, depth of field—these aren't just fancy terms; they’re tools that give kids control over their images.

They start asking great questions like:

  • “Why is my background blurry?
  • “Why does this photo look grainy?”
  • “How can I freeze motion or capture the movement I see?”

Understanding why a photo looks the way it does helps kids become thoughtful image-makers—not just lucky ones.

3. They are in Control (not the Camera)

When a photo turns out beautifully on a phone, we usually have the camera’s auto settings to thank. But when kids use a DSLR and nail the exposure, focus, and timing?   THEY did that.

That feeling of ownership is huge for building confidence. Kids get excited when they realize they’re the ones making decisions—and making it happen.

4.   It Gets Them Fully Engaged

Phones are amazing tools—especially for capturing quick moments. But when kids use a DSLR, the experience becomes more hands-on and immersive. They’re not just tapping a screen.  They're twisting dials, adjusting settings, and reviewing their shots intentionally.   They're kneeling to find the new angles and stepping side to side to see how the light changes.

It becomes an active, full-body experience!  They’re physically and creatively engaged, which helps learning stick in a powerful way.

5.  It Builds Creative Habits and Skills that Stick

Once kids understand the foundations through a DSLR, those skills stick with them—whether they’re using a phone, a camera, or anything else. They become intentional image-makers for life.  

6.  It Feels Real.  Truly!!!

There’s something special about holding a “real camera.”  I see it all the time.  Kids light up when they wear the camera strap, twist the lens, and hear the click of the shutter.  It gives them a sense of responsibility, creativity, and pride that’s hard to match on a phone.




So yes, phones and tablets are fantastic tools—especially for getting kids started with photography. They’re accessible, fun, and can absolutely take beautiful photos. Many kids begin exploring photography this way, and that’s a great thing!

But if you want to take your child beyond just clicking the shutter…
If you want them to truly understand how light, focus, and settings work together…
If you want them to understand the art of photography ....
If you want to give them creative confidence and a solid foundation that will last a lifetime…

A DSLR is the next step.

It doesn’t replace the phone—it builds on it. It gives kids the skills, knowledge, and artistic voice they can carry with them, no matter what camera they’re using.