Requesting Suggestions

[nycNelson]

Budget
Preferably under $600

Size
Size isn't really an issue, but I'd like something that looks professional.

Features
Megapixels
The maximum preferably that'll fall with-in my budget.

* What optical zoom will you need?
Ultrazoom

* How important is “image quality” to you?
9/10

Do you care for manual controls?
Yes.

General Usage
* What will you generally use the camera for?
Mainly for serious photography but also as a learning tool.

* Will you be making big prints of your photos or not?
Not really, but it would be nice.

Will you be shooting a lot of indoor photos or low light photos?
Definitely, especially subway shots where florescent lighting is the main source of lighting and where flash is not permitted.

Will you be shooting sports and/or action photos?
No sports - moving subjects yes.

Miscellaneous
Are there particular brands you like or hate?
A big name brand is preferred, but if it performs well labels don't matter.

Are there particular models you already have in mind?
Fuji's Finepix S9000/S9500 (US/European)

Do you need any of the following special features?
Wide angle is a must, image stabilization would be nice.

Additional notes:
I'd like to avoid SLRs if possible.



Thanks!

[coldrain]

Since you want wide angle, and a big zoom range, the Fuji S9000 seems to be your best choice, it is a very nice camera. You will have to give up IS though. But its good noise performance due to its sensor type will help you in the subways. I think it may be a bit above your budget, but it is a very nice camera.