Forget about monster megapixels. 7MP or less, down to 5MP will likely give you better quality images, than a larger camera. There isn’t much difference in the physical size of the sensors on consumer and prosumer cameras, and most of the high MP rigs suffer from a “noise” problem, which they then filter out with a built in program. The result is often pictures that look like melted wax. I reckon to get flamed on this, LOL, but I still take a lot of good shots with an 8 year old, 2MP camera. I’ve won competitions with it, against the big dogs.
Consider last years model, big savings, nothing wrong with refurbs, either. A stabilized lens is wonderful, they really work.
I’ll shop around and check some deals for you.
for later learning
Pinging some known photography people.
Recommended to my wife by local camera shop when she went in to look at some FReeper suggestions.
I’m afraid that I can’t help you too much here, as I don’t have or use a digital point and shoot... I’ve got a digital SLR.
However, I would give you two bits of advice:
1) You mentioned a 3x or 4x zoom. It seems that most cameras today give you a “total zoom” by adding both a “digital or image” and optical zoom together. If at all possible, ignore the “digital” zoom. Only look at the optical zoom. What’s happening with a digital zoom is that you’re actually cropping or reducing the size of the image, and then magnifying the remaining image. So you wind up with increased noise and distortion in your image. An optical zoom actually zooms in using the lens.
2) Check out http://www.dpreview.com where you’ll find all sorts of reviews, as well as forums where you can ask questions.
One other thing... The smaller the camera, the longer it will probably require for your flash to recharge, since it will probably use smaller and fewer batteries.
Good luck.
Mark
Hello Phantom Lord! Gret topic. I am a huge photography buff. I don’t know much about it so I limit myself to instant cameras. I have to get one developed soon. I hope 35 mm hasn’t gone away! *grin*