Need help on deciding what to buy...

[JonnyTravis]

Hey. My name is Jon and I recently bought a CASIO Exilim. That is not what this thread is about...that camera was run over in a tragic go-kart accident. Now I am actually doing some research and want a camera for specific reasons. I need a camera that will take great outdoor shots (wildlife, hiking, sports) with a decent zoom while still being a camera I can take to an event like Holiday get togethers without being too clunky. Also, I am not looking to spend much over $400. I was looking at the Canon S5 IS because of it's great zoom (but it's kind of big), and the Canon SD 950. If anyone could give me feedback on the matter I would really appreciate it. Thanks.

[JamesV]

Welcome,
I am sure that others will chime in to point you in the right direction. Sorry but I don't know too much about either camera. Have you checked out the "Camera Review" area for feedback?

James

[Rocket_Scientist]

I'm sure either camera is a good buy, just be sure you get Image Stabilization in whatever you buy. If I did not already have the S3 IS, I would buy the S5 IS, or maybe the S100 IS (it has 10X zoom), but then, I am not a "camera-in-the-pocket" kind of guy. Personally, I like the fact that my camera uses standard "AA" batteries, because if I run out of rechargeables, in a pinch I can grab some from a drug store. The SD 950 uses a Lithium Ion rechargeable. I don't know how much those cost for a spare.