The Scope Camera for Kids

This prototype by designer Bas Groenendaal is an easy-to-use camera for kids that encourages them to interact directly with their surroundings from a fun, new perspective. Inspired by James Nachtwey’s TED Prize wish, The Scope is shaped like a car steering-wheel and has a windowless viewfinder, helping bring the photographer closer to the action and his/her subject. The picture is captured with a simple squeezing of the sides of the wheel. Groenendaal designed the camera “to be used as a therapeutic instrument for underprivileged children, e.g. children living in (former) warzones. Children can take photographs and self-portraits in order to rediscover their environment and identity, and share their point of view with others.” TED Blog explains more:

Scope invites a new perspective on picture-taking.. Groenendaal writes,

I wanted to emphasize the importance of looking and framing. In my design there is no screen … It places the photographer in the spotlight: while looking through the camera, the world looks at you. You cannot hide behind the camera.

TED Blog: Prototype – Scope, a Camera for Kids