Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ3 Digital Camera

The five megapixel DMC-LZ3 incorporates Panasonic's MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, the camera lacks an optical viewfinder so get used to theLCD display, the display is bright enough for most situations and can be adjusted for brightness (though is does sap the batteries). You should get pretty good battery life and as the camera uses any AA size you should opt for rechargable NiMH for long life and low costs. The 6X optical zoom is twice what most other cameras in this price range offer and is the same as getting four times as many pixels. The menus are easy to understand and use, but that don't compromise on capability. The MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, which Panasonic puts into all of its cameras, moves the lens to compensate for the slight hand movements most people make when taking a picture. With MEGA Optical Image Stabilization, pictures come out clear, even when using the zoom feature or shooting in low light.