Who makes the best digital camera's on the market? And why are they the best?

Either Sony or Cannon or Kodak or something else?

There is no good answer to your question. That is like asking "what is the best car?" Just as with a car, it comes down to many factors, most important being image quality, and then many other factors. You can't go wrong with the big names like Canon and Nikon, but most of the other brands are just as good these days...

nikon ,canon,kodak,olympus. Just to note just saw that nikon will be pulling out of digital market. I dont know if this is just consumer or prosumer?

I always look at the factor of LENS. It makes a lot of difference the equipment behind it are all the same whether it is sony, cannon. or kodak. Thats why my choice is Panasonic LUMIX lens by Leica Dicomar the best lens for any camera youll ever lay your hands on to.