[hunter601]

Originally Posted by Joe

Hi hunter,
I would thoroughly recommend a camera that is easy to use and has a very clear menu, telling you exactly what the camera is doing.
On paper the Vivitar cameras look quite impressive, but in my opinion the menu takes a bit of getting use to, and some models can be a little bit confusing as to what it's actually doing.
Andy has already mentioned some excellent camera choices.
May I add that some of the Kodak branded cameras might be of interest. Whilst they might not be the most advanced, or even have the sharpest lenses, they do have some of the best menu systems in the business.
One thing that stands out with Kodak is that normally you have a full sentence appaering on the LCD rather than just a symbol, for example.
slimline models like the M883 or M853 come in funky colour options. The V1253 (from memory, not sure if model number correct?) is HD compatible....more models in Kodak range also exist that give you a larger, higher magnification zoom if needed.

Also worth a look at are the Pentax branded cameras. Pentax are a massively under rated company....and following the news that Pentax is pulling out of the compact camera market to concentrate on SLR's, their compact cameras will probably be offered at some very good discounted prices. On paper many of the Pentax models might not seem as good as the Vivitar's....but the Pentax's have much sharper lenses. A nice sharp lens helps lots, particularly if you want to have larger prints made of your photos.

hope this helps

Thank you. I will take a look on those models and brands.