- The Fuji Finepix F20 -- Advantages include: low shutter lag (time between pressing the button and taking the photo), unique sensor technology allowing crisp shots in low light, and a feature allowing users to take two simultaneous shots with and without flash. "Fuji is a sleeper; they make an excellent product," says Eisenberger. $199.95; fujifilmusa.com.
- Pentax Optio A10 -- This tiny but powerful camera lives large with 8 megapixels (megapixels help determine image quality). Bonus technology allows users to shoot video for as long as you have memory on your card (about 45 minutes on a 1 gigabyte card, says Eisenberger). $199.95; pentaximaging.com.
- Panasonic Lumix FX3 -- The advantage of Panasonic cameras lies in their "exceptionally high-quality optics" and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) technology (which prevents motion blur), says Eisenberger. The Fuji fares better in low lighting conditions, however. $199.95; panasonic.com.
- Sony CyberShot DSC-W50 -- This compact, pocket-sized camera comes with an optical viewfinder allowing users to view subjects in bright lighting conditions, a disadvantage of digital LCD screens. This CyberShot model also has almost no shutter lag. $179.95; sonystyle.com.
- Olympus FE190 -- This one is for the unabashed technophobe. The LCD screen on this compact beauty tells you what each setting does and how to use it. $158.95; olympusamerica.com.
- Canon PowerShot A540 -- Serious hobbyists from kids to grown-ups will love this one. This point-and-shoot has full manual override settings, a rarity in this price range. $174.95; usa.canon.com/consumer.
- Nikon Coolpix L3 -- Affordability is this model's main benefit. Averaging $125, a complete kit with memory card, batteries, and charger will still run under $200. $124.95; nikonusa.com.
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