Animator needs a new digital camera!

[jcollins]

Hey all,

I'm a computer animator and I have some very specific needs from a digital camera and i'm wondering if someone could recommend me a few different digital camera choices.

I basically need a 5 -6 megapixel, small, snapshot camera that takes great pictures, but I also need it to be able to take 320x240 (or higher) movie clips around 30 seconds long. I need it to be able to make several low-rez movies that I use for reference in my animations. And lastly, I'd also like it to be lightweight and stylish looking.

My friend just picked up a Kodak Easyshare v550 and it loved the large screen size, but I've heard good and bad reviews. And I'd really like to know what everyone thinks what the best camera for me would be. I'd ideally like to keep it under $400 as well.

Thanks in advance for your help,

jeremy
jcollins3d@hotmail.com

[TheObiJuan]

I can't give you any specific models, but look at some that offer very low distortion at the wide end, offer a tripod mount, and preferably manual white balance.