digital p&s under $400

[Michael Fanelli]

Konica Minolta Dimage G500 (5MP) -- I don't like the docking station for this.

Pentaz Optio 450 (4 MP) -- I saw the 550 and it seemed easy to use. But I don't know much more about this one.

Canon Powershot s50 (5 MP) -- This was my original pick. I was steered away from it by a salesman.

Nikon Coolpix 4500 (4MP) -- Photographer friends say this is cool. But it seems slow. Hard to find.

In reality, you won't see much difference between these. My personal choice would be between the Pentax and the Canon.

I owned a Pentax Optio 330 digital. It was a wonderful camera in terms of ergonomics. The pre-exposure histogram is something I've not seen elsewhere (extremely useful). I gave it to a friend who uses it all the time.

No honest saleman would turn you away from the Canon S50. It is argueably the best-in-class for this type of camera. Don't go back there. Canon prides itself on low noise; this one follows that tradition, albeit compared to other 5 MP models. Also look for good prices on the S45 (4 MP).

[Liz]

you might want to consider the Canon s400. It's a very small, but awesome camera. Michael Fanelli has one (the guy who posted above). Here's the link. Followed by a link for the specifications. The price has gone down considerably because it's going to be discontinued. However, most digitals are discontinued as new ones come out - it doesn't mean it's "outdated" and don't be afraid to buy one.

Link to Michael's photo:
Behind Auraria Campus

Specs
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=278235&is=REG

I also agree that the s50 and s45 are excellent cameras. There are comparable cameras in other brands, but you can't beat the optical quality of Canon.

Liz

In reality, you won't see much difference between these. My personal choice would be between the Pentax and the Canon.

I owned a Pentax Optio 330 digital. It was a wonderful camera in terms of ergonomics. The pre-exposure histogram is something I've not seen elsewhere (extremely useful). I gave it to a friend who uses it all the time.

No honest saleman would turn you away from the Canon S50. It is argueably the best-in-class for this type of camera. Don't go back there. Canon prides itself on low noise; this one follows that tradition, albeit compared to other 5 MP models. Also look for good prices on the S45 (4 MP).