Nurturing Curiosity: A Photographer’s Perspective
One of my favourite things about being a photographer is the curiosity kids show toward my camera. There’s something magical about seeing little faces light up with wonder as they stare at this “big, scary” piece of equipment I’m holding. Their fascination is so pure—no words are needed, just a quiet exchange of curiosity and excitement.
Sometimes, when a child shows interest, I invite them to be part of the process. I’ll let them press the shutter button or peek through the viewfinder to see what I see. In that moment, they get to glimpse the world through my lens, and their amazement is a beautiful reminder of how special this art form is.
Photography is about perspective, and I believe that introducing children to this idea early helps foster creativity and a sense of wonder. It’s less about teaching them technical skills and more about helping them see the beauty in everyday moments.
Last Christmas, I got to experience this wonder in a whole new way when my three-year-old daughter was gifted a toy camera. To my surprise, it wasn’t just a toy—it actually takes photos! With a tiny micro SD card, it allows her to explore the world through her own lens (even if the images are low resolution).
Seeing the photos she takes fills me with joy. Her perspective is so unfiltered and authentic, whether she’s capturing her favorite stuffed animal or an unexpected detail in our home. Her little camera has become a bridge, connecting her curiosity to the passion that has shaped my life.
As a mom and photographer, it’s amazing to watch her develop a love for capturing moments, just like I have. It’s not about perfect lighting or composition—it’s about the joy of preserving a moment in time. Her toy camera reminds me of what sparked my own love for photography: the simple thrill of seeing the world a little differently.
Whether I’m working with a curious child on a session or watching my daughter discover her creative spark, these moments are a gift. They remind me why I fell in love with photography in the first place—to see the extraordinary in the ordinary and share that vision with others.
If your child shows an interest in photography, encourage them! Whether it’s through a toy camera or letting them borrow your phone for a few minutes, you might just be nurturing a lifelong passion. After all, the world is full of stories waiting to be told—sometimes all it takes is a little curiosity and a click of the shutter.
