Christmas is just around the corner! (Which is crazy!) Cameras always are at the top of the list for "popular gift ideas," but there are sooooo many options out there. Believe it or not, I get asked for my thoughts on cameras all the time. I thought it'd be nice to break it down to 4 options depending on skill level, age and intent. A bit of a disclaimer - I am a Nikon girl, half of these are Nikon. There's nothing wrong with going Cannon or Sony or whatever, there are tons of great options for brands. I actually picked Nikon over Cannon way back in the day because I liked the sound of the shutter better. That's it. That's the only reason I could come up with to choose between the two because they are both great! So while I may not be any help to any Cannon people, you should be able to google the equivalent. 

1. Child Size

Turn Raise Kids Digital Camera

First off, is this not the cutest little camera you've ever seen?! I bought this for Jones for Christmas (But he gets it early since we will be in Disneyland and I want him to be able to use it there) This little guy is teeny - perfect for little hands. There is no flash, no zoom and only like 5 buttons. Optimal for kids. This is the closest thing to a point and shoot 35 mm film camera that I could find. It takes a micro sd card. (This one came with one included) a 16 gb card can hold over 6,000 pictures. It can also shoot video. It also comes with a lanyard that your child can wear to prevent loss. I'm so excited to see the pictures Jones takes with this!

2. For Fun

Instax Mini 90 Neo

I'm sure you've seen fuji's rendition of the Polaroid, usually they are brightly colored and bubbly shaped. Well, this is the more refined older sister. The Neo Classic is an awesome, free spirit camera. All the perks of instant film, but with a little more control. I bought this one at the start of the year. It is awesome to be able to take double exposures with - all in camera! It also has more control over what you want your picture to look like (just like a DSLR *cough*) What is also a bonus is that it takes the same mini film you see at every end cap at Hobby Lobby or Michaels. I have a wide instax camera as well (basically two mini prints put together) and the only place I can get film is online. It's nice with this to be able to get film same day. 

3. More Rugged Use + Better Than My Phone Camera

Nikon W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera

This little guy is awesome. I bought one back when it first came out (and the only color option was orange - bleh!) I lovingly nicknamed it "The Thing" as a nod to Marvel's character from the Fantastic Four. I loved popping this bad boy in my purse and not worrying about it. It even came with Danny and I when we went on a cruise to the Bahamas. Perfect for our adventures at the beach and in the ocean without worrying about damage. I even took it snorkeling with us! The pictures turn out well! Especially for being a little point and shoot. I'd say this guy would be a great camera for those who like to get out and have fun outside! 

4. The Amateur + Hobbyist

Nikon D3500

This guy is the equivalent to what I started with. It is a great entry level camera. With it you can learn how to shoot in manual, or if you're not comfortable with that, Auto is a good option to stick with. The best part about these entry level cameras is that you can usually find one in a bundle like the above picture. Usually the "bonus" stuff is meh - but I like it for the reason of getting a camera bag, memory cards and cleaning kit. The tripods are usually pretty cheap and the filters and lens attachments are fun to play with here and there, but they aren't a necessity. These cameras are usually pretty light and compact for a DSLR (thank you crop sensor!) so they are very easy to cart along and bring with you on vacations or everyday use. 

If you have any other questions about cameras, feel free to message me! And just in case you were wondering, this is not an add - I don't get anything out of you using these links. I did this for the sole purpose of helping you shop for your loved ones this holiday season. Drop me a comment if you plan to purchase any of these! Enjoy!