confused- so many models

[Liora]

I am looking for a point and shoot camera but I am somewhat confused between all the models. I am not advanced, but I hope to buy a camera that will allow me to learn a bit more about photography first before I invest in an SLR.


Budget: 180-260 Canadian (but I am willing to spend up to 300 Canadian for a quality camera)
Size: Compact (doesn’t have to be ultracompact)
MP: Minimum of 8
Optical zoom: preferably 5X
Image quality if very important
I do not need manual controls yet and will be using it for everyday pictures of people, places and things.
I would like the image stabilization feature and a large LCD screen (2.7 or higher). I would like the video mode with audio, however, the main use of the camera is for pictures


Can you recommend a digital camera for me?

[AndyfromVA]

If you want to learn about photography you should purchase a camera with manual exposure controls. They also have an auto mode, which you can use until you get used to using the manual controls.

Some cameras with manual controls that are within your price range are the Canon A590is, Panasonic LZ8, Canon SX110is, Sony H10, Fuji S2000hd and Kodak Z1012is.

[SpecialK]

At the very top of this page is a link to Reviews and Info. Check out a few cameras that meet your basic requirements.

Then, go here and look at the ones that interest you.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/bestsellers/photo/281052/ref=pd_ts_zbw_p_281052_more?&pf_rd_p=465008251&pf_rd_s=gp-right-5&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=502394&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1ESS04CCGQ9QHY6T28MQ

[Liora]

Thanks- that helps!