Well I'm not an expert or anything but I did do a lot of research before purchasing my newest digital camera. I bought a NIKON COOLPIX and I really like it!! I would suggest checking amazon for reviews before buying a camera!
I have a Fuji z200, which has a slide-open lens, massive LCD screen and multi-view for photo's, as well as all the usuals: shake reduction, macro, flash etc. etc.
I paid $250 for mine 12 months ago, but they're about $180 now.
