Fujifilm FinePix HS25EXR

Pros: Excellent picture quality, manual zoom, bright screen, excellent low or existing light capability, all in one telephoto lens, image capture, different film types can be used (Astia, B&W, sepia,etc.), easy to use controls and menus, fast auto focus.

Cons: Optical viewfinder a bit dark. Manual focus not that easy to use. Not much else bad about the camera.

Summary: A great camera for the person moving up from a pocket camera to a more advanced digital camera, but does not want to carry around a lot of lenses. The lens on this camera is more than most consumer buyers will ever need. I have taken pictures in bright beaches, well lit and dark interiors (without the flash)and various other landscapes, horse races and even portraiture with hardly any problems. The learning curve on this is easy and with a little experimentation, you will be able to capture incredible images. The camera used in the "EXR" position makes photo taking a snap (no pun intended). For the price, I can't see how you can beat this camera. It is well made and the media instructional will tell you everything you have to know. Highly recommmended.