As parents, we love capturing those precious moments — first steps, first days of school, and everything in between. But have you ever noticed that as soon as your little one sees you with a camera, they want to join in too? I remember when my son took a photo of his tiny foot and proudly shared it on my social media — adorable, but it also made me realise he needed a camera of his own.
Research from TUI shows that 61% of parents agree that getting kids involved in preserving memories makes them even more special. Letting them take the reins not only sparks their creativity but helps them create memories that will last. Finding the best kids camera isn’t just about giving them a device, it’s about empowering them to explore, learn, and capture the world through their eyes.
After doing some digging, I’ve found some fantastic cameras that are easy to use, sturdy enough for little hands, and packed with fun features. If you’re ready to let your little one start capturing their own moments, read on to discover the best kids cameras!
The best kids cameras at a glance 2025
How we chose these kids cameras
When selecting the best kids’ cameras, we wanted to make sure we were giving you the most reliable and real-world advice. To do that, we started by researching what’s trending in the market, looking at top-selling cameras on sites like Amazon, and reviewing options that were getting the most attention from parents. We then tested a selection of cameras ourselves, my toddler and I took some of them for a spin, and the Mother & Baby team joined in with kids ranging from two to seven years old.
When evaluating the cameras, we considered several important factors. Durability was at the top of our list because we know how tough kids can be on their things. So, we made sure to test how well the cameras held up against drops, splashes, and the general wear and tear of daily use. But we also wanted to make sure the cameras were easy enough for kids to operate on their own. Simplicity and intuitive design were key.
Another factor we focused on was how fun the camera was. We were looking for features that would encourage creativity, like fun photo filters, frames, and maybe even a game or two. After all, kids should have fun with their camera, not feel like it’s just a tool. Image and video quality were also important, though we weren’t expecting professional-grade shots. We paid attention to whether the cameras took clear, decent pictures, especially in tricky lighting, and whether video recording was easy and stable enough for kids.
The price also played a role in our decision. We wanted to find cameras that were both affordable and offered solid value for what they offered. We also looked at the extras, whether it came with accessories like a memory card or a protective case. Lastly, with some cameras offering social sharing or online features, we made sure to check if those platforms were safe and private enough for young users.
By combining hands-on testing with insights from other parents, we feel confident that the cameras we recommend are well-suited for kids and provide a great balance of fun, functionality, and safety.
The best kids cameras 2025
User level: Kids (ages 3–9) | Megapixels: 8 MP (front), 2 MP (rear) | Lens: Dual lens (front and rear), focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 320 x 240p | Waterproof: No | Battery: 4 x AAA batteries| Extra features: Music player, Built-in games and activities
With a 4.7-star rating from more than 6,000 Amazon reviews, the VTech KidiZoom Duo Camera is an excellent choice for a child’s first camera. It’s well-regarded for its high-quality 8MP photos and videos, which can be edited with 80+ fun filters and effects, making it a highly engaging option for young photographers. The camera’s versatility allows children to take selfies, panoramic shots, and fun videos with special effects, giving them the freedom to explore their creativity. It's also equipped with a music player and 15+ games and activities.
With a built-in flash, 4x digital zoom, and expandable storage, it offers great functionality for young users. Additionally, the camera includes parental controls for added peace of mind.
Many parents appreciate how easy it is for kids to use, even with the added fun features.
Laura Healy, Commercial Content Writer at Mother & Baby said, “It is very simple to use and kids can take photos or make videos, plus add special effects and frames for photos or silly animations, which they love.”
Customers also rave about how easy the camera is for young ones to navigate, with many noting that their children quickly figured out how to use the camera and its features. The build quality is sturdy and well-made, providing excellent value for money.
One Amazon reviewer shared, "I bought this for my granddaughter’s birthday. She loved it and took 90 pictures within the first hour. All the kids around her loved it as well." Another parent commented, "This camera is brilliant. My 3-year-old found it really easy to use, and it has lots of cool filters."
However, Laura noted that "it is quite chunky to carry on a day out but it doesn’t bother my girls and it’s not heavy.” And she added, “the chunky design has probably saved it from damage after being dropped and occasionally thrown in a temper. It really is extremely robust and still looks like new."
The only drawback from Laura and other parent reviewers would be that it cannot be charged and requires batteries. Laura said, "you do get through them quite quickly if the camera is used a lot. However, it is a fun camera on family days out, or even a trip to the park, it’s ideal and we love it.”
What's in the box?
Pros
- Child-friendly design
- Helps enhance creativity
- Video and still photo features
Cons
- You have to frequently replace the batteries
- Built-in flash
- 4x digital zoom
- Games for children to play
- Good battery life
- Easily connects to laptop
- Expandable storage
- Parental controls
- Record funny voice effects
- Edit animated films
2.
Hangrui Kids Camera
Best budget kids camera
AmazonUser level: Kids (ages 3-12)| Megapixels: 20 MP| Lens: Focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.0” | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Time lapse, 8x digital zoom, puzzle games
The Hangrui Kids Camera has received a 4.6-star rating from over 2,649 Amazon reviews, with many parents appreciating its toddler-friendly fuss-free features and robust construction.
The shockproof silicone case, available in Dinosaur and Unicorn styles, is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, helping the camera withstand drops and rough handling. Parents also note that its compact size makes it easy for little hands to hold and operate.
In terms of features, many reviews highlight that children enjoy the 28 fun photo frames, 6 color filters, 5 mirror effects, 8x digital zoom, self-timer, and time-lapse shooting. Some parents mention that while the photo quality isn’t comparable to a real camera or smartphone, it is more than adequate for young kids who are just starting to explore photography.
The ability to record videos is another feature that many children seem to enjoy. The camera also comes with a memory card, which allows kids to store plenty of photos and videos.
Beyond taking photos, parents find the built-in puzzle games, including Snake, Tetris, and Sokoban, useful for keeping toddlers entertained, especially on long car rides.
Many reviews praise the camera’s ease of use, noting that the controls are simple enough for young children to navigate independently. One parent shared, "So far, so good, she loves it! It’s actually smaller than I expected, but that’s perfect for her little hands. She’s already dropped it, but the silicone case is really sturdy."
Opinions on battery life and picture quality are mixed. Some parents find the battery lasts through extended play sessions, while others feel it could be better. Similarly, some find the photo quality acceptable for a kid’s camera, while others wish it was sharper. One reviewer appreciated the dual-lens feature, saying, "The dual-lens feature is a game-changer. Watching my three-year-old nephew giggle as he switched between front and rear cameras was priceless. The battery lasts a long time too!"
Overall, most parents find the Hangrui Kids Camera to be a fun, durable, and engaging option for toddlers who want to take their own photos. While it may not match the quality of a smartphone camera, it seems to be a popular choice for young children, offering a balance of simplicity, durability, and creative features.
What's in the box?
Camera body
32GB memory card
USB cable
Pros
- Built-on shockproof silicone case
- Built in classic children's games
- Good battery life
- Comes with memory card and adapter to save pics to computer
Cons
- Smaller than thought (ideal for young children but not older)
- Includes 28 funny photo frames, 6 coluor filters, and 5 mirror effects
- Features 8x digital zoom, self-timer, and time-lapse shooting
- Built-in puzzle games: Snake, Tetris, and Sokoban
Best kids camera with instant black and white printing
www.scandiborn.co.uk
User level: Kids 5-12 years | Megapixels: 12 MP | Lens: Dual lens (front and rear)| LCD screen size: 2.0" | Max video resolution: 320 x 240p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Printing resolution: 200 dpi | Extra features: Direct thermal printing, free printing paper rolls
Tested by Senior Digital Writer, Anne Lora Scagliusi
If you’re after a kids’ camera that prints photos on the spot and looks super cute, the Hoppstar Artist Digital Camera in Denim is worth a look. It’s got that lovely Scandi-inspired style, and while it’s a bit more of a splurge, it makes such a sweet gift. I used it daily with my toddler for a month, and it quickly became one of our favourite little gadgets.
Let’s start with the look. We tested the Denim colour, a soft, muted blue that feels modern and calming. The Hoppstar Artist also comes in a lovely range of subtle tones: Blush (a warm pink), Laurel (sage green), Oat (light beige), Memo (a taupe-pink blend), and Blossom (a soft lavender). These colours are refreshingly gentle compared to the usual bright kids' gadgets, which makes them feel a bit more aesthetic.
One of the best things? It’s designed for kids to actually use. The buttons are large and simple, and my toddler figured it out surprisingly quickly. The camera comes with a lanyard, so he could wear it around his neck, and I didn’t have to worry about it hitting the floor every few minutes.
Perfect for snapping pictures, though it doesn’t have a zoom feature, so you’ll have to manually point and shoot. But honestly, kids love selfies (at least mine does!). It also has a video camera, which records decent footage with clear sound.
Print without ink? Yes, please! Here’s where it gets really fun – this camera can print photos instantly in black and white, with no ink needed. It uses thermal printing and comes with 3 rolls of photo paper (enough for about 225 prints, which is a lot!).
My son absolutely loved watching his pictures come out straight away – it was like magic for him. We also received a free Spring-themed filter (included in the box, though you need to subscribe to the newsletter to get it), and the camera comes with a bunch of fun built-in filters too – things like animal ears, cute frames, and colour effects.
Now, let’s talk print quality. It’s not professional photo quality (this is a kids' camera, after all), but for what it is, it’s pretty decent. I did notice that photos taken in bright daylight tended to look a bit washed out when printed, but indoor shots came out much clearer.
The manual suggests wiping the print head with an alcohol wipe to keep things sharp – though I wish they had included one. I checked with customer service, and they said an antibacterial wipe should be okay in a pinch, but alcohol wipes are best. If you're looking for the clearest prints, make sure to select 12MP” in the image quality settings and set the print density to high or medium. It really does make a difference.
It’s designed for ages 5+, but with supervision, my two-year-old was able to use it too. Just be ready to supervise the print button – because once they discover it, it’s game over!
You can transfer photos to your computer using the included USB charging cable and OTG adapters (USB-C and Micro USB), or simply remove the mini SD card and use a memory card reader to connect it to your computer. While it’s not as convenient as Bluetooth, it gets the job done.
The built-in rechargeable battery lasts well and charges via USB. One note: the camera is a bit bulky (though that adds to its charm), and it’s not shockproof, so I wouldn’t let it be thrown around too much. It’s also not waterproof.
What’s in the box?
Hoppstar Artist Camera
16GB SD card
3x rolls of thermal photo paper
Charging cable
OTG adapters (USB-C and Micro USB)
Instruction manual
1x free themed filter
Pros
- Soft, subtle colours that stand out from typical kids' gadgets
- Easy for toddlers to use with simple buttons
- No ink needed; thermal printing for fun black-and-white photos
- Built-in filters and a free Spring-themed filter to keep kids entertained
- Automatically powers down when not in use, helping to conserve battery
Cons
- Not the most compact design for small hands
- Can be damaged if dropped or used in wet conditions
- Prints aren’t professional-grade; daylight shots may look washed out
- Auto focus, Auto white balance, Auto ISO balance, Auto colour correction, Auto brightness correction, Face detection, many different menu languages
Best starter digital camera
AmazonUser level: Kids (ages 3-10)| Megapixels: 16 MP| Lens: Focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.0” | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: 6 scene selections, autofocus, self-timer and time-lapse/ burst shot
The YunLone Kids Camera has earned a 4-star rating from over 8,500 reviews, with parents praising its playful design and ease of use. This camera is particularly noted for its colourful, shockproof silicone case that protects it from accidental drops, making it a great option for younger kids. Parents appreciate the simple controls and lightweight design, which are perfect for small hands.
Many parents mention the 30 frame styles and seven photo filters that help spark creativity. The camera also records clear videos, which keeps kids entertained and engaged. The 32GB microSD card and cartoon stickers included with the camera are seen as great bonuses for budding photographers.
One reviewer said, “This children’s camera has been a hit with my young one. The clarity of both photos and videos is remarkable, igniting a newfound interest in capturing moments. The camera's user-friendly design is perfect for small hands, and the durability is reassuring.”
Another parent shared, “This camera was for a 3-year-old's birthday. They love taking photos on people's phones, so having a camera they're in command of is great.”
Overall, the YunLone Kids Camera is a fun, easy-to-use option that encourages children to explore photography with a high level of creativity and independence.
What's in the box
Digital camera body
32 GB Micro SD Card
card reader
USB cable
Lanyard
Cartoon stickers
Instruction manual
Pros
- Easy to use
- Comes with a memory card
Cons
- Younger children will need to be supervised with the lanyard
- Includes autofocus, self-timer, and time-lapse shooting
- Supports both video recording and photo capture
- Equipped with face detection and automatic smiling face capture
- Continuous capture mode for action or burst shots
User level: Kids (ages 5–12)| Megapixels: 20 MP rear, 16 MP selfie | Lens: Wide-angle rear lens, 20mm macro lens | LCD screen size: 3.97" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging| Extra features: AI photo editing tools, selfie light with warm modes, Wi-Fi sharing via myFirst Circle app
Tested by Senior Digital Writer, Anne Lora Scagliusi
I tested the myFirst Camera 50 and can confidently say it’s perfect for kids who love filming little vlogs and documenting everything from their dog’s naps to breakfast pancakes. It’s definitely more advanced than a typical kiddie cam, ideal for kids aged 5 to 12. It was a bit too much for my toddler son, but I could see how older kids would really get the most out of it.
From the get-go, it feels more like a tiny smartphone than a toy. It has a big, bright screen, comes in Purple and Blue, and is surprisingly lightweight, my son carried it around easily all day. It also comes with decorative stickers, which were an instant hit.
It takes 20MP photos and records in 1080p, which is honestly pretty solid for a kids’ device. The videos can be a bit shaky since there’s no stabilization, but for casual storytelling, it gets the job done. The built-in selfie light bar with three warmth settings was a nice touch especially for indoor shots.
One of my favorite features is the AI-enhanced editing tools. During day-outs and travels, kids will really enjoy adding stickers, voiceovers, and music to their videos and photos and I gave it a try myself. It was surprisingly easy to navigate. There are built-in themes like travel, food, and more, which automatically pair clips with music and basic edits. Kids can even add voice notes and save them as personal diaries. It’s a lovely way to document memories, not just for the kids, but for parents too, who might want to keep a private video journal or vlog archive of their child’s adventures.
Best part? All of this can be done directly on the camera with no need for extra apps. It turns everyday moments into fun, creative projects, something I really appreciated.
Now, the big feature here is the myFirst Circle app — a safe, closed social space where kids can share their creations with approved family and friends. Yes, you’ll need to download the app, and so will Grandma or any other relatives who want to view, like, or comment. It’s all invitation-only and parent-approved, which means no strangers, no public sharing, just a private feed of fun moments. It takes a bit of setup, but once you’re in, it works seamlessly.
There are a few cons would be. The startup time is slow, and the screen lags now and then — which can test a young kid’s patience. Low-light photo quality isn’t great, and the MP3/MP4 player requires you to manually transfer music from your laptop, which felt a little outdated.
Still, for a kid who loves vlogging, storytelling, or creating digital content, this camera offers a lot. It’s creative, fun, and gives parents peace of mind knowing their child isn’t diving into real social media just yet.
What's in the box?
Camera
Neck lanyard
Anti-lost lanyard
Accessories stickers
USB Type-C charging cable
User manual
Pros
- Lightweight and portable, easy for kids to carry around all day
- 20MP photos and 1080p video for decent quality content
- AI editing tools for adding stickers, voiceovers, and music
- Selfie light bar with 3 warmth settings for better indoor photos
- Built-in parental controls
Cons
- Slow startup and occasional screen lag
- App download required for sharing content (family and friends must also install it)
- High price point
- AI-Assisted Curation
- Pin-Code Protected Video Diary
- Child-Safety Focused Social Circle
- Integrated Selfie Light
- Physical Shutter Button
- Light and Ergonomic Design
User level: Kids (ages 3-10)| Megapixels: 8 MP| Lens: Single/ Fixed focus | LCD screen size: 2.0" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: Yes (IPX8-rated; up to 3 meters for 180 minutes) | Battery: USB charging| Extra features: Built-in filters, frames, microSD, free waterproof case
Tested by Senior Digital Writer, Anne Lora Scagliusi
If you're gearing up for a beach holiday or any trip where your little one is bound to get messy, the myFirst Camera 2 might be the perfect way for them to document all the fun, kind of like their own mini GoPro. I tested it with my toddler during bath time (because, why not?) and it’s survived multiple drops, splashes, and even some wild throwing sessions, which means the waterproof and shockproof features are the real deal. We also tested it on Edinburgh’s sandy shores, and the waterproof case did an awesome job protecting it from the sand, so no worries there! I’m super excited to bring it along on our upcoming beach trip to Italy, where I’m planning to let my son try it out while snorkeling.
This camera is made for water-loving kids. The shockproof and waterproof case makes it totally splash-proof and can even handle being submerged up to 3 meters for 3 hours. The LEGO-inspired design is adorable, and it’s small and lightweight, perfect for little hands. Plus, the included lanyard makes it easy for them to carry around without worrying about dropping it all the time.
I had fun testing it with my son, and it definitely has some cool features, colour filters and fun photo frames were a big hit. The 8MP image quality is pretty decent for its size, though I did wish it had a selfie lens. The camera doesn’t have all the extra stuff like games, which would’ve been nice, but it’s focused on being an easy-to-use, solid camera for outdoor and underwater adventures. It also comes with preloaded photo templates, stickers, and a 16GB microSD card for storing all their photos and videos.
One of the best parts? It works underwater as long as the waterproof case is on, which is awesome for any water activities. Just a heads up though, parents will need to double-check that the case is tightly sealed before any underwater use, better safe than sorry! This camera is perfect for kids aged 3+ and a great first camera for capturing those vacation memories or fun pool days.
What's in the box?
8MP myFirst Camera 2
Silicon casing
Waterproof casing (IPX8-rated; up to 3 meters)
Micro USB charging cable
Neck lanyard
2 decorative stickers
Memory card adapter
16GB memory card (included)
User manual
Pros
- Waterproof up to 3m
- Lightweight and durable
- Preloaded templates and effects
- Comes with shockproof and waterproof case
Cons
- No rear-facing camera
- No built-in games
- Shockproof design with reinforced high-strength polymer casing
- Lightweight (67g) for easy handling by children
- Supports microSD cards up to 32GB
- Preloaded with fun photo frames
- Includes waterproof case, lanyard, and stickers
Best kids instant camera
AmazonUser level: Kids (ages 3-14)| Megapixels: 20MP | Lens: Front and rear dual lenses | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 1080p| Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Built-in 6 kinds of colour filters, 20 kinds of cartoon photo frames and characters, timer shooting
The HiMont Kids Camera Instant Print has received a 4.4-star rating from almost 1,000 reviews. Parents appreciate the instant printing feature, which allows kids to print their photos instantly, creating physical memories that they can hold onto. The camera’s user-friendly design and good photo and video quality are frequently mentioned as positive features.
However, some customers have concerns about print quality and functionality.
The camera comes with several accessories, including string, pegs, and colourful markers to decorate prints. Kids can also play games and record videos, making it a multi-functional camera. The ability to print photos instantly on skin-friendly paper (with up to 150 photos possible with the included rolls) is a hit among parents.
One reviewer said, "This is a great camera for kids! It's easy to use and takes great photos and videos. The instant print feature is a lot of fun, and the kids love being able to see their photos right away. The camera also comes with a lot of accessories, which are perfect for decorating their photos."
Another customer shared, "This instant print camera works really fast, you only wait about 3 to 5 seconds to shoot and the print is instant. It is black and white, just like advertised, with front and back cameras that have good image quality, better than expected at this price."
What's in the box?
Camera body
3 x print paper roll
5 x coloured pens
3 x cartoon stickers
32GB memory card
USB charging cable
10 x photo clips
neck lanyard
Pros
- Six built in colour features
- Stickers and pens to decorate instant prints
- Privacy safe with no Wifi/Bluetooth required
- Quick printing
Cons
- Prints in black and white
- Instant black and white thermal printing (no ink needed)
- 10x digital zoom, timer and continuous shooting
- 6 colour filters and 20 fun photo frames
- DIY accessories (stickers, pens, photo clips)
- Music and photo playback, built-in games
- 32GB memory card included
- Privacy-safe: No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Best action camera for kids
AmazonUser level: Kids (ages 5-10)| Megapixels: 8MP | Lens: Front and rear dual lenses | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 1080p| Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: AR filters, 4X digital zoom
With a 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews, the VTech KidiZoom Studio is a favorite among parents looking for a fun and interactive camera for their children. Designed for ages 5 and up, this camera offers exciting features like video recording, a green screen effect, and 20 imaginative backgrounds, ranging from a beach scene to outer space. It’s a great tool for fostering creativity, allowing kids to pretend to host their own shows and bring their ideas to life.
The camera comes equipped with a mini tripod/handle and a wrist strap, making it easy for little hands to capture action-packed moments. Plus, parents love the three built-in games, which help enhance hand-eye coordination and creative play.
Durability is a major highlight, with many reviewers praising its ability to withstand rough handling. One satisfied customer shared, "I bought this for my grandson’s 5th birthday. He’s delighted with it! It’s easy to use and keeps him entertained for hours." Another parent noted, "It’s really sturdy and easy to navigate. My toddler throws it around the house, and it still works perfectly."
However, some parents mention that the memory card could be larger, as they frequently need to delete pictures, and battery life could be improved. Despite these minor drawbacks, most agree that the VTech KidiZoom Studio is an excellent choice for creative kids, offering hours of fun, learning, and entertainment.
What's in the box?
KidiZoom Studio camera
Green screen fabric
Convertible mini tripod/handle
Wrist strap
Pros
- Can record and take pictures
- Six game modes
- Convertible tripod and handle bar
Cons
- SD card not included
- Battery life could be better
- Studio camera
- HD video recorder
- Convertible mini tripod
- Wrist strap
- Six games to play
User level: Kids (ages 5-10)| Megapixels: 2 MP (5 MP interpolated) | Lens: Rotating (180°), focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 640 x 480p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Flip-up lens to capture the perfect selfie video
Rated 4.6 out of over 2,600 Amazon reviewers, the VTech KidiZoom PrintCam is an excellent choice for children, offering both fun and functionality. It includes a built-in thermal printer, which allows kids to print their photos instantly in black and white.
Customers find the digital camera to be a fun option for kids, especially with the print feature. They appreciate its sturdy construction, good-quality paper and stickers, and the overall value for money. Many find it easy to use and consider it a great gift idea. However, there are mixed opinions from some customers on picture quality and battery life.
This camera also offers various creative options, such as special photo effects, stamps, and borders, that encourage imaginative play. The camera’s flip-up lens makes it easy for kids to take selfies, while it also provides the ability to turn photos into line drawings for coloring or print custom cards, pretend money, and accessories. It functions like a standard digital camera, allowing children to take photos and videos that can be saved and transferred via USB. The memory is expandable with a microSD card (though not included), which adds flexibility for storing more images and videos.
Laura Healy, Commercial Content Writer for Mother & Baby and mum of two, reviewed the camera and said, "My seven-year-old enjoys using this camera, especially as she can print the pictures. She particularly likes the comic strip maker and the line drawing effect. It took a little while for her to grasp the features and learn how to use them, but with a bit of practice, it was simple and she can use it herself. It is a fun camera for taking digital photos and printing them."
The camera is durable enough to handle some rough play, making it ideal for younger users. It’s a great option for children ready to explore photography and creativity, combining instant printing with photo editing and game features that will keep them entertained and engaged.
What's in the box?
KidiZoom PrintCam
1 roll of thermal paper
USB cable
Wrist strap
Parent's guide
Pros
- Lots of special effects
- Can make your own comic strips
- Excellent for taking videos
Cons
- Printed photos not very clear
- Might take a while to grasp all the features
- Built-in thermal printer
- Includes photo effects, stamps and borders
- 3 games and comic strip maker
- Panoramic prints
- Rechargeable battery
- Selfie lens for photos and videos
10.
myFirst Camera 3
User level: Kids (ages 4-15)| Megapixels: 16MP | Lens: Selfie and Macro Lens| LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Built-in fun filters, timer mode, comes with shock-proof silicone case
The myFirst Camera 3 is a child-friendly camera designed to provide high-quality photos while being incredibly easy for little hands to use. Despite being made for kids, it performs like a standard digital camera, with a macro lens for close-up shots and a selfie lens for fun self-portraits. It is also built for durability, with a shockproof pouch made from high-tensile strength polymers, so it can withstand drops, knocks, and bumps. Additionally, the camera supports a microSD card up to 32GB, allowing your little one to take plenty of photos and videos without running out of space.
Laura Healy, Commercial Content Writer at Mother & Baby, tried and tested the camera and said, "My four-year-old loves this camera! It is the perfect size for her little hands and it is incredibly lightweight. She loves going out to the garden with it to take pictures of bugs and with this camera, because it is so simple to use but has great picture quality, she actually takes some great photos. I think we have all been snapped since she started using it and she loves that she can turn it on herself and surprise us by taking our picture when we are not expecting it.
To add some of the fun effects or frames, or to swap to Macro mode takes a little bit of support, but she is starting to work it out herself and my seven-year-old worked it out straight away and is able to help her. The battery life is great and although my girls have been very careful with it and not dropped it (yet!) it feels robust and I think it could definitely withstand a few bumps. It is a great camera for little ones, I definitely recommend it."
The myFirst Camera 3 is an excellent choice for younger children, offering high-quality photos and videos while remaining durable and easy to use. With its lightweight design, fun effects, and long-lasting battery, it provides hours of entertainment for kids exploring photography.
What's in the box?
myFirst Camera 3
Adjustable neck lanyard
Designated shockproof pouch
2 decorative stickers
Micro USB charging cable
Memory card (included)
User manual
Pros
- Great for close up photos
- Durable and shockproof
Cons
- Charging a bit slow
- Durable with shockproof case
- Macro lens for close up shots
- Selfie lens
- Preloaded frames
- Rechargeable
How to choose the best camera for kids
We get it, choosing the right camera for your child can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, all claiming to be “the best,” it’s hard to know which one will actually suit your little one. While we’ve put together some recommendations, here are a few key things to consider to make sure you’re picking the right fit for your child’s age, interests, and needs.
1. Age suitability
The best camera depends on your child’s age and skill level:
Ages 3-5 – Simple, durable cameras with big buttons and easy controls (e.g., VTech KidiZoom Duo Camera).
Ages 5-7 – Fun cameras with creative filters, frames, and instant printing (e.g., VTech KidiZoom PrintCam).
Ages 7-10 – More advanced cameras with better resolution and video features (e.g., myFirst Camera 3).
2. Type of camera
Think about what your child will love most:
-
Digital cameras – Great for everyday snapshots and creative play.
-
Instant print cameras – Perfect for kids who love seeing their pictures instantly (but keep in mind, film refills add to the cost!).
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Action cameras – Ideal for little adventurers who want to record their bike rides, swimming fun, or travel/ outdoor adventures.
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Hybrid cameras – A mix of digital and instant print for more versatility.
3. Durability
Kids drop things. If you’re buying for a toddler or younger child, look for a shockproof, drop-resistant design that can survive a bit of rough play like Hangrui Kids Camera or YunLone Kids Camera. If your child is older and more careful, you might choose something a little more advanced with extra creative features like HiMont Kids Camera Instant Print or a polaroid.
4. Ease of use
Younger kids need simple buttons and an intuitive interface, the fewer confusing menus, the better! For older kids, look for touchscreens and extra features they can explore as their skills grow.
5. Portability
If you plan to take the camera on trips, a lightweight and compact design is key. A lanyard or wrist strap also helps prevent drops while out and about.
6. Creative and special features
Kids love fun effects! Look for cameras with filters, stickers, frames, and even green screen effects to spark their creativity.
7. Parental controls
Some cameras come with safe settings to manage what kids can do and share, which is great if you’re concerned about screen time or internet access.
8. Photo and video quality
Most kids’ cameras won’t have pro-level quality, but for everyday fun, 5-10 megapixels is fine. If your child is really interested in photography, look for higher resolution and video recording options.
9. Battery and power
Would you prefer a USB rechargeable camera, or are you okay with replaceable batteries? USB charging is more convenient, but battery-powered cameras can be handy on long trips.
10. Storage capacity
Some cameras have built-in memory, while others use SD cards for more storage. If your child loves taking lots of pictures, you might want a model with expandable storage.
11. Budget
Kids’ cameras range from budget-friendly (£20-£50) to more advanced models with premium features (£70+). Think about how much your child will use it before deciding how much to spend.
Best kids camera FAQs 2025
At what age should a child have a camera?
You can introduce a simple camera as early as 3 or 4 years old, but most kids really start using them effectively around 5 to 8 years old. This is a great age to foster an interest in photography and let them explore their creativity.
What is the best beginner camera for a child?
The best camera depends on their age and interests:
For ages 3-5: The VTech KidiZoom Duo Camera is a great choice. It's simple, durable, and packed with fun effects.
For ages 5-12: The VTech KidiZoom Studio is fantastic for kids who love making videos, it even comes with a mini tripod/handle!
What camera is suitable for a 7-year-old?
At this age, kids are ready for a little more creativity:
The VTech KidiZoom PrintCam lets kids take and print their own photos.
The myFirst Camera 3 is great for kids interested in close-up photography.
What are the benefits of children's cameras?
Kids' cameras are a great way for little ones to explore their creativity! They help improve their fine motor skills as they figure out how to use the camera. Plus, they feel so grown-up having their own gadget, which builds their confidence. And let’s be honest, these cameras are tough enough to handle the bumps and drops that come with being a kid.
How do pictures help children learn?
When kids take photos, they’re not just capturing moments, they’re also learning about the world around them. It helps them pay attention to detail and remember things better. Looking at photos also gives them a chance to talk about what they see, which boosts their language and storytelling skills. It’s such a simple way to help them grow emotionally and cognitively!
Finding the right kids' camera doesn’t have to be stressful! Keep their age, interests, and needs in mind, and you’ll find the perfect match. Whether it’s snapping silly selfies, making home videos, or capturing everyday adventures, a camera can be a wonderful way to encourage creativity, independence, and storytelling.
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About the author
Anne Lora Scagliusi is a Senior Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a Scotland-based journalist with over a decade of international writing experience, specialising in women’s health, maternal mental health, and wellness. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour and has appeared on several Vogue global editions. She is mum to a one-year-old bambino and lives between Italy and the UK.