What equipment for small child to make clay videos?

Question

My child spends hours ,upon days, for about 10 years now, setting up action scenes elaborate sets with action figires.They have actually become quite intriguing. Is there simple equiptment that a child of 4-5 or at least under12 can use to make simple vidios. I know nothing...clean slate here..we do not even have a digital camera. THANK YOU

Answer 1

Sounds pretty cool. But I'm not sure what you are trying to do. Are you trying to make stop-motion animation videos? Like the old Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer type stuff? If so, I imagine all you really need is a tripod (to keep the camera still) and a camera or camcorder. If you use a camera, just take separate shots with each movement and then play them back in a sequence. Simple, but very time consuming. If you use a camcorder, it might be a little easier since you won't have to convert the still pics into an animation (on a computer). Just take very short (1 or 2 sec) clips and then play it back. You'll wnat to use a camcorder remote control to make it easier (most camercorders come with them anyways). I hope I understood what you were asking!

On a side note, I think Lego sells a complete studio set that comes with a camera and everything you need to make Lego movies. I think i saw one once recently.

If it works out, you should post them on Youtube or something!

Answer 2

If you are looking for video, as opposed to still photos, you should take a look at the Mattel Vidster Digital Video Camera, which is about $75 USD (new) or less and aimed at 8 year olds.

http://blogs.pcworld.com/staffblog/archives/000778.html
http://www.radioshack.com/sm-vidster-childrens-digital-video-camera--pi-2145830.html

you'll need a computer to transfer the movies to, and you can edit them there.

If a computer is an issue, look for a cheap old/used camcorder. If you get the VHS-C you can easily watch play them via your VCR with a tape adapter. you can always buy a new VHS-C camcorder for $150 - $225 USD and forget about/do without edit capabilities available on the PC. Depending on the PC and your ability to use the PC, editing and using video may be tough or fun to do.