I think the best all-around bet for your purposes, currently, is a Canon A 710 IS (IS = Image Stabilized), available for $300 - $400.
This comes from a lifelong dyed-in-the-wool Nikon guy (with lots of negs and slides from Rolleiflexes, a Speed Graphic and others).
As usual Chuck offers excellent advice and tips. My early years in photography were remarkably like his; I also earned decent $$ in college as a part-time pro and have been very active in photography constantly since.
My current "main" camera is a Nikon F100 (which more than a few pros use). I have a series of Nikons back to two Fs; all work fine.
I went with the Canon digital "point and shoot" for its versatility (FAR beyond a P & S) and image quality, at a very reasonable price point.
THE CANON A710 IS CAN DO MOST OF WHAT THE NIKON F100 CAN, but not as conveniently or instinctively, due to smaller size, fewer controls, and not being a SLR. However it has a very good lens and incredibly versatility, thru a number of menus.
Pixel count becomes VERY important when good quality, larger prints (8 x 10 or >) are needed -- or you need to enlarge just a small part of an image. For 3 x 5s and modest-sized web photos, high pixel count isn't needed.
I have some A 710 IS sample images from it I'll send to anyone for posting, who has a photo account.
Last edited by Fred; 02/24/07 11:13 AM.
