Need a new Camera: Here are my requirements...

[Steven T]

Background: I'm very new to photography but I will be needing to do it a lot for my line of work. I'm an expert in photoshop but I've never needed to be the one taking the actual shots till now. I will be photographing lots of products to put in my online store, as well as shots for catalogs, cards, and various types of print work.


Basic Requirments:

• My budget: $500 Reatail (so try to keep it under unless you really recommend i step it up a notch)
  
• I'd like something relatively portable. If it fits in a pocket then fantastic. As long as it's not too much of a hassle to carry around with me without needing a big bag or something.
  
• I want to be able to take multiple images fairly quickly. (Action shots)
  
• Need something that isn't going too be picky about lighting.
  
• I'm more interested in something that will give professional clean results than I am in simple point and click. I want really crystal clear photos but I don't want to have to make all kinds of complex adjustments to get those results. Keep the complexity reasonable for a noobie to photography.
  
• I do not need, nor am I interested in "In camera photo editing options". I use photoshop extensively anyway.
  
• Above average battery life.

I'm sure I missed a lot but I plan to spend a couple hours reading the forums right now. If someone has a link to a list of reviews on cameras that fit my requirements let me know.

I was leaning toward Canon Powershot SD850 if i go really compact. Or Nikon D40 if it's worth it for the extra size and cost. Thoughts?