If you are starting your search for a new camera think about the options that are important to suit your needs. There are so many choices when researching cameras today. If starting a new hobby there are a wide range of point and shoots available. I have always favored Canon's products so we can start with a couple that are on both ends of their point and shoot spectrum.
There is the:
Canon PowerShot A3000 IS:
10 Megapixels
Focal Length 35-140mm
4X Digital Zoom
Maximum Aperture 2.7-5.6
Shutter Speed 1-1/1600 - 15-1/1600
ISO Sensitivity 100-1600
$149.00
Or:
PowerShot G11
10.4 Megapixels
Focal Length 28-140mm
5X Digital Zoom
Maximum Aperture 2.8-4.5
Shutter Speed 15-1/4000
ISO Sensitivity 80-3200
$499.99
I listed just a few of their specifications to give you a start on what are some of the important details that should be the deciding factors. Things to consider would be do you simply want a dependable camera to capture memories, do you need something with more options so you can grow into your camera, do you need the expanded features with faster shutter speeds to keep up with children in sporting events or quick moving animals. Or if lighting is an issue you will need the larger ISO range if shooting inside when you do not want to use the flash, or shooting indoor sports like in low lit hockey rinks. After a little research of the features of a few cameras, it is always fun to go to your favorite camera retailer and get a feel for a couple of your favorites, seeing if you like the layout of the controls and viewfinder.
