Camp Pixel Project is a 4 day summer camp in The Woodlands. Kids aged nine and older will learn both photography + graphic design. Each summer camp is divided into graphic design and photography classes, so kids get instruction in both arts.
Photography Equipment
DSLR or Mirrorless Cameras
The most simplistic way to think of a DSLR or Mirrorless camera is that it has the ability to change out the lens.
A DSLR OR Mirrorless (mirrorless is the latest technology) camera- is required for camp. If you do not have one, Camp Pixel Project has some available to rent.
Both DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras have the ability to switch out lenses and typically have a dial on top that looks similar to this:
In camp, we teach campers how to use the Creative modes on their DSLR and/or mirrorless cameras. These are indicated by the dial on top (A or AV, S or TV, and M)
Purchasing a DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
For beginning photographers, we recommend buying used cameras. They work GREAT and are a fraction of the price of new cameras. If you buy a used camera, that leaves more money in your budget to buy a variety of used lenses! Because we are Canon users, we recommend Canon. However, Nikon cameras and Sony cameras are just as good, but we are not as familiar with their products.
Our analogy is this- would you rather buy a used Mercedes with a lot of safety features and bluetooth sound system, or a new bare bones Ford Focus without many safety features and a cassette player?
We love B&H Photo for used equipment. Local retailers are Houston Camera Exchange and Humble Camera Center.
Later model Canon EOS Rebels are excellent starter cameras
The lenses that we recommend are as follows (listed in order that we would purchase if we were buying for our own children):
Canon 50mm, 1.8. This is an inexpensive, versatile lens that we use in class a lot. It packs a lot of punch for a small amount of money!
Sigma 70-200, f/2.8. This is a fun zoom lens if you are interested in shooting any sporting events or anything far away. Our photography teacher Tracy has the more expensive version of this lens and it is her absolute favorite!
Canon 28-135MM F/3.5-5.6. Very versatile lens for a variety of scenarios. It goes from wide angle to zoom.
Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5. For fun wide angle and fish eye effects.
Before you make any of these purchases, call customer service and make sure the particular lenses fit on whatever body you decide to buy! You are also welcome to email our photography teacher Tracy (tracy@camppixelproject.com) for information.
If you do buy a camera, you will need a memory card (with at least 16gb), and protective camera bag. Amazon and other big box retailers have some good prices on these things.
Other Items Needed for Photography
Label EVERYTHING!
Fully charged battery and charger
All lens caps (these get misplaced OFTEN, so LABEL them!)
lens cloth (if you have one!)
Memory Card
Protective camera bag
Tripod (optional if you have one. If not, we have extras for campers)
Cable to connect camera to computer if it is not wireless (optional, campers like to download their images onto their computers)
Extra lenses (if you have them it is very beneficial for campers to practice with different lenses)
