Do I need a Digital Camera for a Preteen?

The advent of the tablet computer and the smartphone has allowed many of us to ditch gadgets that we used to depend on for communications, recording important moments, and managing our lives. I remember my Dad lugging a huge video camera to my high school graduation so that he could record my speech. Today, we carry video and digital cameras with our smartphones, and many of our preteens and teens do the same. A digital camera for a preteen may be more of a luxury than a necessity, and it may even be an inconvenience. However, you may find that a tween's interest in photography on a smartphone leads to a desire for better quality in the photos taken.

Check out the colors and pricing, watching for great deals during the holiday season and as tech updates occur.

If you are looking for an entry-level digital camera for a tween, I really like Nikon CoolPix because it is easy to manage and older versions tend to be very affordable. My daughter was a tween when she got her 10 MP version, and two years later, I picked my 12 MP version up at the same price that hers cost previously. The model pictured above is listed in the $140 range, but can be found on sale at $90 or less. Available in tween-friendly colors, the device is a great option, many megapixels stronger than my version from a year ago.

If you select a digital camera for your middle schooler, be sure to find a manageable case and to consider a protection plan as this can be a time of tech casualties as tweens go through many physical and emotional changes.