Danny is looking for a camera that is portable, has a decent zoom and takes great pictures. HD video capture would be nice, but not necessary. Most pictures will be shared electronically with the occasional prints. Budget is $200-$350.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5S 9MP Digital Camera with 10x Wide Angle MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom You don’t have to spend oodles of money to satisfy Danny’s requirements. Panasonic has been producing a line of camera’s the Lumix DMC that continue to garner high praise from professional reviewers and your average photographer. The Lumix DMC-TZ5S 10MP continues the line of excellence.

Why this is a great camera for Danny:

• Compact enough to easily fit in a small camera bag or jacket pocket.
• 10x Leica zoom with wide-angle coverage out to 28mm – Lens quality is described as “truly excellent” by dpreview.com
• Fantastic HD movie mode with 1280 x 720 pixel 30fps wide screen option
• 3″ LCD allows you to easily compose and review

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5S 9MP Digital Camera with 10x Wide Angle MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Possible Alternative:

Samsung HZ15W 12MP Digital Camera with 10x Schneider Wide Angle Dual Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0 inch LCD (Grey) Has some neat features like Frame guide – The Frame Guide setting on the new HZ15W means you no longer need rely on the technological capabilities of strangers for perfect holiday snaps. When you use the setting, the camera takes a ghost picture of your desired shot and displays a template when you pass the camera over to someone else – ensuring they take the picture you want them to take, with you perfectly placed in it.

If you are not Danny and your want your own personalized recommendation