I want to recommend a camera to my cousin. Here are his required specs:

1. A digital camera that has a fast (instant) shutter. Most digital camera's slow delay between the pressing the button and the picture actually taking is atrocious.

2. A camera that shoots good vga/moviemode movies.

It does not matter what size camera it is. DSLR are obviously the premium choice for #1, but are too expensive and do not generally afford #2.

Ideally, I would like to settle on a $250-450 camera that has quick shutter release, has high megapixel and good video options. All the other gimmicks are well, gimmicks to me.

Does anyone have a recommendation? Does such a digital camera exist that is not a DSLR?

Cheers,

DC

The S line of canons have a pretty fast shutter, and do provide video up to 30 fps. The S3 will be reduced because of the new S5, so I would look for one of those. It has a lot of the features a DSLR has, just non interchangeable lens. But it does have a fast focusing lens, and with quite a bit of reach. Also, the Sony H series is worth taking a look at.

Also, the Panasonic DMC-FZ8 would be a good choice. I have the FZ7, which has minimal shutter lag, and will also shoot at 3 (not 30) frames per second. I've used the video on mine a few times and was very pleased with the results. It also has a 12X optical zoom and a top quality Leica lens, which some say is superior to the canon lens. It can be had for around $250.