In the past few years I have purchased several point and shoot cameras, all under $200, and have been very disappointed with their ability to take good bird photos and/or their length of life.  I have no camera right now, my last one having stopped working (like all the rest) for no apparent reason.   I see a lot of great photos on this list, so I hope some are taken with decent, but not fabulously expensive cameras. 

I need a camera that will: 1. take decent photos of the kids - indoors and out (variable motion and light conditions) 2. take reasonable photos of birds (outdoor, motion, zoom) and 3. take very good photos of items for things like ebay - clothing, books, etc.  4. easily portable.   And I need it for a reasonable price. - certainly less that $1000.  Less that $500 would be even better  (money is very tight!). 

This comes up because I saw a totally life bird yesterday, and although I think I remember the field marks in my head, when I look through the books I am just not sure.  A photo is worth a thousand mental memories.... (the bird may have been a conneticut warbler, at least that's why my memory matches the best).  I need to start carrying a camera.  

Would OSPREYers with camera opinion contact me off-line, and share your field-camera suggestions with me?  

Thank you,

Joanne

Joanne Howl, DVM

West River, MD