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?

[Frog]

From what I've read the Canon should work for you if you don't need higher iso due to light.
Says it has a decent flash though so you should be able to get along iso 100.
The Nikon is as good as the user and the glass you put on it which will cost extra, of course. No way you could put in your pocket either.