Not another one!!!

[mn shutterbug]

Personally, if you would add another $50 or so, you'd have more choices. I recently purchased a Panasonic DMC-FZ7. This is a 6 mp advanced compact P & S with image stabilization and 12X optical zoom. It comes with a highly regarded Leica lens. Every review I look at gives it a rating of 4.3. I've taken a few good shots with it and know it is capable of much more than I've accomplished so far. Another good choice would be a Canon S3 IS. I believe this camera also has a 12X optical zoom and also has the image stabilization feature. I think you would be happy with either of these, for around that price range. They have the necessary zoom for sports and most wildlife and total manual control for the creativity in you. Good luck.

[rocklax]

Personally, if you would add another $50 or so, you'd have more choices. I recently purchased a Panasonic DMC-FZ7. This is a 6 mp advanced compact P & S with image stabilization and 12X optical zoom. It comes with a highly regarded Leica lens. Every review I look at gives it a rating of 4.3. I've taken a few good shots with it and know it is capable of much more than I've accomplished so far. Another good choice would be a Canon S3 IS. I believe this camera has a 10X optical zoom and also has the image stabilization feature. I think you would be happy with either of these, for around that price range. They have the necessary zoom for sports and most wildlife and total manual control for the creativity in you. Good luck.

Too bad for me $50 more I can't do, $300 would be tapping me out. I was actually hoping for closer to $250. But I'll look at the ideas that you gave me. Thanks for the help so far.

[Rocket_Scientist]

Too bad for me $50 more I can't do, $300 would be tapping me out...

Currrently, B&H Photo has the Canon S3 IS for $293 and some change.