DigitalCamera-HQ has a great list of $300 range cameras. Are you looking for a compact? Check out the Canon SD line, the SD990, SD870. In the slightly larger category, the Canon SX line. Panasonic is also making some good cameras. The Panasonic Lumx LX3 is great, but it's out of your price range. I mention it because it's very popular as a backup point and shoot with professionals.