One unexpected consequence of the smartphone revolution was the creation of a worldwide network of still and digital cameras that can be interconnected with each other. Images can now be commented on in real time. VSCO is an example of this change and something parents should be aware of.
VSCO – The Basics
- VSCO stands to represent “Visual Supply Company”, and was established in 2011.
- This app was created to replicate the look of film photography using presets that are specific for various models and manufacturers.
- Although it is not a “social networking” per se, it does contain social features.
- The app is subscription-based. Basic editing tools can be used for free, while the rest of it, including video features, requires an annual fee of $19.99.
Parents Should Be Concerned about VSCO?
Although you might have heard of the “VSCO girl”, a term that is often used to describe a hipster who has more fashion sense than commonsense, VSCO shares the same concerns with other apps that are photography-based such as Instagram.
- Unintentionally, photographs can reveal information about a person’s life, such as where they live, their school, and the layout of their house.
- There’s always the possibility of people interconnecting.
- Teenagers might also be able to have their work stolen by others, which can make it difficult to fight.
VSCO might be worth looking into if your teenager is keen to learn more about photography and experiment with different types of cameras. Parents should set rules and enforce them using parental control software.
VSCO Safety
To ensure safety and compliance with the rules, parents should establish rules for VSCO and other apps.
- VSCO’s Terms of Service prohibit users under 13 years old from using the app. Parents should block access to the app by installing parental control software.
- Enable in-app purchases without entering a passcode at the operating system level
- Talk to your teenager about how and why they plan to use VSCO. VSCO can be used in place of any other camera software.
- Make their profiles together, and make sure to check them for any identifiers that you don’t want. Pay attention to your profile picture.
- Sit down regularly to discuss the photos they are taking and why. It will encourage them to be creative and get them thinking about the images they take.
- You should make sure that they know that you will discuss inappropriate messages and overly friendly contact with strangers.
Additional Ways to Keep Your Teen Safe Online
Encouragement of creativity and thoughtfulness in teens is important. Teens also need to be taught how to safely use social media apps as they move into adulthood. Software that allows parents to control their children’s safety and health can ease the transition.
VSCO is a photo- and video-editing app that allows users to create new content. It also offers tips and tutorials. VSCO encourages communication by sharing images and direct messaging members of the creative community. VSCO’s standard tools and presets are available in the free version. However, membership is required to access tutorials and tips as well as all other editing tools and presets. Users can view and like the images in their feeds, much like Instagram. Users can also share images and follow other users. They can also communicate with others who follow them through messaging. There are no public comments, likes, or followers. Although the Community Guidelines require that all material be suitable for all audiences, this is subjective as some images may depict suggestive material or other material that might be too explicit for children.
Source: Safes.so
