In the modern world, kids are growing up surrounded by technology and often exposed to it, whether it’s suitable or not. With smartphones everywhere and social media easily reachable, children are being forced to grow up too fast. If you’re a parent who is concerned about the effect of technology and social media on your child, then you should really take a look at the myFirst Camera Insta 20. The sturdy device is aiming to reach children who are starting to become curious about technology and photography.
Available in two colour variations – blue, and blue and pink – the myFirst Camera Insta 20 is a surprisingly robust device. With a 16MP camera, you can use the camera to take photos or video, and a button on the top of the device allows you to switch the camera into selfie mode. Using the plus and minus buttons on the back of the camera, you can add a series of effects, filters and frames if you wish to make your picture look even better. The camera comes with a 4GB memory card so there’s plenty of space on there to house a lot of pictures and videos.
The selling-point of the camera is the instant print functionality, which uses thermal printing. The camera comes with three rolls of thermal paper, and you can load one easily in the front by taking the panel off. Once you’ve taken your photo, you press the circle button and it instantly prints within seconds. There are a few density settings you can play with to change the print and I found that ‘low’ worked the best. The print completes in seconds and actually, it’s pretty impressive. One thing to note is that it only prints in black and white, but that actually became part of the appeal for me.
The screen on the back of the camera is bright and it’s easy to read the options on it when you’re looking through the settings. You can also use the plus and minus buttons to switch through your pictures and videos once you’ve taken them (the triangle button gives you access to your library). There is no ability to edit the photos or add effects once you’ve taken them. On the front there’s a second screen that shows emojis and charging information, that add a little more fun to the camera.
The functionality of the camera is limited but honestly, kids aren’t going to notice or care. There’s no ability to Zoom and there isn’t a light on the camera, meaning you need to get close to your subject and catch them in the right lighting. It’s not a deal breaker but it’s a consideration when you’re deciding whether or not to get the device. The camera is packaged with a USB memory card adapter, and two adaptors to ensure you have the right connection for your device. This allows you to transfer the photos and videos to a laptop or computer. The quality isn’t great when looked at on a computer, given the camera is only 16 MP but you can then print the images in colour on your home printer if you want to.
The myFirst Camera Insta 20 also comes packed with a USB to USB-C charging cable, and two sticker sets so you can personalise the camera. Kids will love the stickers, which can be added to the front panel of the camera. You also get a strap so you can hang the camera around your neck for use on the go.
For its intended purpose, the myFirst Camera Insta 20 is superb. It’s robust enough to withstand the rough and tumble kids will put it through, there are enough features to keep kids engaged and the instant print functionality is impressive. This camera really is aimed at young children so keep that in mind if you’re considering it. Older kids won’t be wowed by it and they’ll get frustrated with its limitations. I’d say if you have children 12 and under, this could be a perfect gift for Christmas.
Released by: myFirst RRP: £99.99 Buy ‘myFirst Camera Insta 20’ now
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