Unusual question

[rvanr]

The daughter of a friend of mine is taking some really good pictures with a point and shoot camera. She seems to have a good eye for composition and is able to use the different features of her point and shoot. The surprising fact is that she is only five years old!

Does anybody know of any photography books or courses that are aimed at young people? Reading English would be a bit of a problem for the next couple of years, as she is from Bangladesh and will soon go back to live there. Her parents want to nurture her talent.

[Lisa Nikodym]

I don't know of any *text* books that would be appropriate, but I've learned far more about improving my photographic "eye" by looking at excellent photos than by reading.  As long as she has someone (who understands the technical basics of photography) to explain how to fully use the features of whatever camera she is currently using, I'd recommend getting her some big picture books of photos both by some of the great photographers of the past and by some excellent photographers of the present whose work would particularly appeal to children.  Someone could suggest "tasks" or "games" such as trying to imitate the style of some particular photographer.

Lisa

[pixelpro]

"Does anybody know of any photography books or courses that are aimed at young people? "

In the UK the museums and galleries such as the Tate and others regularly hold workshops for young children. If you are in the UK contact the museums and galleries via the internet for information. Elsewhere in the world chek similar places.

I think a five year old is too young to be introduced to books on the subject but the adults around her could certainly get more information on photography. I wouldn't push the child in any direction. She'll go where she wants to. Her interests will change and she must not feel pressured by adults. Firstly she needs the rich experience of childhood lived as a child.