FREE 

Camera KickStart! 

Camera KickStart is a free, self-paced, beginner-friendly course designed just for kids, tweens, and teens with a DSLR or mirrorless camera in hand. In two fun and easy-to-follow lessons, young photographers will explore both the creative and technical sides of photography. These quick wins help build real confidence behind the lens—right from the start.

Camera KickStart is a window into how we do things at Kids Photography Academy. It’s personal, encouraging, and down-to-earth. The lessons are clear, approachable, and designed with young learners in mind—no overwhelm, just genuine connection and creative confidence. Camera KickStart gives them skills they’ll use every time they pick up their camera—and a spark of inspiration that will last long after the lessons are done.
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     What your child will experience... 

  • - Sparks of inspiration they’ll carry into every photo they take -
    - Engaging videos that speak directly to your young photographer -
  • - Slideshows packed with inspiring photo examples -
  • - Interactive questions to keep them thinking and involved while watching -
  • - Fun challenges that get them practicing right away -
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.

FAQs

Who's this course for?

This free course is designed for kids, tweens, and teens who are curious about photography and excited to explore their creativity! Whether your child is just starting out or already loves taking photos, this course offers fun and foundational skills that will help them grow as a photographer.

What camera do kids need for the Camera Kickstart?

This course is specifically designed for kids using DSLR or mirrorless cameras that allow for manual controls—particularly ones with an exposure compensation button or dial (look for the ± symbol).

If you're unsure whether your child's camera is suitable, feel free to reach out!

What does this course include?

This short and sweet freebie includes two engaging lessons:

Creative Composition – Seeking New Perspectives
We’ll explore how to make photos more interesting by seeking new perspectives. Kids will learn a simple mantra to carry with them for life, helping them look at the world—and their photography—in fresh, exciting ways.

Tech Tip – Working with Exposure Compensation
In this tech-focused section, we’ll show kids how to start taking control of their camera’s brightness settings. They’ll learn how to make their images lighter or darker on purpose—a big step in understanding how cameras think and in building confidence behind the lens.

How long does the course take?

Each lesson takes about 10–15 minutes to through, with an activity to try out right after. It's the perfect starter experience—bite-sized, beginner-friendly, and totally doable even with a busy schedule.  And the best part? These are skills they’ll use every time they take photos—so what they learn here will stick with them forever!

 Does my child need to do this alone?

Nope! They can absolutely go through it on their own, but many families love to watch and explore together. All lessons are taught in our signature KPA style:
  •    Down-to-earth
  •    Personalized
  •    Real connection
We meet kids where they are—with clarity, encouragement, and zero fluff.

 Is there a cost?

Nope! It’s completely free—no credit card required. Just a fun, inspiring way to experience what learning photography can be like with Kids Photography Academy.

What happens next?

If your child enjoys this intro, we’d love to welcome them into our full online programs. They'll get deeper lessons, cool challenges, and continued support to keep developing their creative voice through photography.

A Special Note from the Creator, Janet Pliszka

Hi there!

I’m Janet — photographer, educator, and founder of Kids Photography Academy. I’ve spent nearly two decades as a full-time photographer, and for the past 10+ years, I’ve had the absolute joy of teaching hundreds of kids how to grow into their unique creative selves through photography.

This free course gives you a little peek into what KPA is all about — a place where kids feel seen, supported, and celebrated as they learn. We mix just the right amount of tech know-how with creative spark, and we always teach in a way that feels real, down-to-earth, and encouraging.

Whether your child dreams of becoming a pro photographer or loves taking photos of their every day, they belong here.

Thanks so much for being here. I can’t wait to see the amazing images your child creates!

with heart,
Janet