Cameras For Kids Holds 'Why I Love Photography' Essay And Photography Contest For Kids Ages 7 To 14

The photography and essay contest is open to anyone age 7 to 14. There is no entry fee. Winners will be announced on the Cameras For Kids website and winners will receive a copy of John Crippen's book, 'Cameras For Kids'

ATASCADERO, CA, May 25, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- John Crippen of Cameras For Kids announced today the 'Why I Love Photography'essay and photography contest. The contest is open to children ages 7 through 14. There is no charge for entry in the contest. Winners will be announced on the Cameras For Kids website and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will receive a copy of Crippen's book, 'Cameras For Kids'. The goal of the contest, like Mr. Crippen's book, is to increase awareness of the value of the only form of technology that draws kids and teens into the world, rather than creating in them a tendency to withdraw from social interaction.

"There are many studies," stated Mr. Crippen, "which clearly demonstrate that kids and teens are being negatively affected by interacting with modern technology. From cell phones to video games, computers to dvd's, the documented effect on kids and teens is unquestionably negative. These negative effects are caused primarily by the tendency to withdraw from social interaction, withdrawal from society in general, a lack of exercise - even vitamin deficiencies resulting from lack of sunshine. Cameras could be said to be one of the only forms of modern day technology that require that the participant interact directly with the world around him or her. Photography and cameras sharpen and enhance creative thinking, improve observational skills and allow kids and teens to reconnect with the world around them."

John Crippen's new book, Cameras For Kids, is a fun filled book full of projects for young children. The projects found in Cameras For Kids are fun, simple and inexpensive to create. The book was written to stimulate art and creativity at an early age. Basic camera functions, settings, and even basic composition are covered in this book which is recommended for ages 7 through 14 years of age.

"The book was created," continued Mr. Crippen, "with educators and parents in mind and can be easily adapted to a curriculum for art and enrichment programs. The program has been presented to a wide range of students in the Atascadero Unified School District, on the California Central Coast. The kids are very enthusiastic about the program. The book has already been adopted by districts and libraries."

As a compliment to the book, there is a CamerasForKids website with free instructions and information on photography, downloadable lesson plans for teachers, and even assistance in writing grants for schools with tight budgets. The website has many other topics for children to explore such as articles on animals, nature, and science. Designed to be an overall positive and enriching learning experience, the Cameras for Kids Website was created to reconnect children, parents, and teachers with the world around them.

The 'Why I Love Photography' contest begins on May 23, 2010. Entries must be received by August 1, 2010. Entry forms and all necessary information, including rules and parental release forms can be found at the Cameras For Kids website. Winners will be announced on August 15th, 2020. Educators may contact Mr. Crippen directly with specific requests. More information is available at the website or by email.

Mr. Crippen is available for media interview and can be reached using the information below or by email at camerasforkids@gmail.com.

John Crippen is a published author with 6 books prior to camera for kids. He is an active advocate for kids, nature, and wildlife. His photography is noted in several books and journals as well as galleries and the California Central Coast. He also holds a degree in Psychology and has also taken classes in Early Child Developement. John has also worked with the developmentally disabled and enjoys being an educator