Camera for College ...

I have a little extra cash and I kind of wanted to pick up a digital camera. I originally planned on spending around $150 on it, but then I realized that was a little low, even if I find one that's refurbished or off ebay or something, and since I plan on getting a quality product, I think I will probably be spending around $250 from a place that offers good deals (refurbdepot, half.com, ebay, etc).

I am a college student, and basically the idea of getting this is to capture some of the hilarity and madness that ensues in my every day life. I'd like these options:
Be able to take decent pictures/video when it's fairly dark
Be able to print good 5x7 pictures
I'd like to take as long a video as possible
It needs to fit easily in my pocket
Preferably be somewhat "sturdy"
Somewhat easy to use

I doubt I'll need to take an enormous amount of pictures at a time, and I'm not going to be a professional photographer. I'd just like a digital camera that's not a piece of junk for a good price.. What cameras should I take a look at?
Thanks..

"Be able to take decent pictures/video when it's fairly dark"

that one is your weak spot... the other one would be how quickly the camera can be whipped out your pocket fired up and be ready to take a picture..

most of your other requirments are fairly easy to satisfy with a cheaper camera..

not gonna suggest anything just pointing out where u might have problems with whats generally on offer around your price range..

trog100

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by JMcCallon

I am a college student, and basically the idea of getting this is to capture some of the hilarity and madness that ensues in my every day life. I'd like these options:
Be able to take decent pictures/video when it's fairly dark
Be able to print good 5x7 pictures
I'd like to take as long a video as possible
It needs to fit easily in my pocket
Preferably be somewhat "sturdy"
Somewhat easy to use
Thanks..

---

A name brand 3-4 MP camera is all you need. However, video is another story. Video is not a still camera's strong point. The video is mediocre and really intended to grab some quick footage. If video is important to you, look at video cameras.

Since you want to protect your investment, regardless of the price, I'd suggest one of these LCD protectors

http://www.freewebs.com/lcdprotector/

There's no adhesives & you don't even notice it's on there. $5.49 with FREE shipping! Custom-cut to fit your camera, you'll never have to worry about scratches, fingerprints or glare ruining your photography.

Good Luck with your search.