Point & shoot digital cameras?

[ashes2beauty]

First let me say that I am an "advanced amateur" photographer, who is extremely partial to SLR cameras... I have 4 (3 film SLRs, only one of which I use mainly) and a digital SLR.

However, I am looking to buy a digital point and shoot camera. I want something I can take with me everywhere I go that can easily be hid in my glove box, since I don't want to keep my SLRs in the car. I also want something small enough, and GOOD enough to take with me to concerts, because I KNOW I wont get passed security with a professional looking camera. So for that, I need something that will take quality photos, and have a good zoom range.

I know nothing about point and shoot cameras, as to what takes quality photos and stuff... I can afford to spend up to $500 (but will have to use lay-away, lol).

Any suggestions??

 

[_becca]

I would go with a Canon PowerShot A95... I have a PowerShot A80 and I like it alot.. I wish that I had the A95.. I think its a great deal $262 on NewEgg.com.. 5.0MP
http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=ModelDetailAct&fcategoryid=145&modelid=10468

Or maybe a Canon PowerShot S2 IS for about $500... My brother has the S1 IS and it takes fantastic videos... and its only a 3.2 and this is a 5.0 so I'm sure its really nice
http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=ModelDetailAct&fcategoryid=144&modelid=11368

 

[ashes2beauty]

Thanks!! I'll look into them.

 

[VWPETE]

the Canon A series cameras are a reall bang for your buck, they offer lots of usefull features including full manual control. I have an older A70 and i think its a great camera. Nikon also offers some great cameras, i just perfer the size, features, and use of AA batteries that the Canon uses.

check out www.stevesdigicams.com or some other review site. there are alot of good point and shoot cameras, just don't expect them to match a DSLR.

 

[Andy_GB]

I'd echo the Canon recommendations -- they build good, solid kit and as a company with their roots in the film camera business, know what they're doing. Can't go wrong with a Canon