Choosing a new digital camera?

I'm looking to replace my Canon Powershot SD300 but don't know the right features to look for in a camera. Its only 4 MP, doesn't have alot of scene modes, or large zoom capabilities. Also looking for a camera with good video recording/playback. After those features I hear alot about image stabilization, iso, shutter lag, and also digital/optical zoom which I do not understand. My camera only normally had a 3x digital zoom but I found a way to enhance it to 12x however my photos came out blurrier after the increase in zoom. I want to understand the key features to research in a camera before purchasing a replacement.

I would stay with the Powershot series mainly from Canon's reputation however I was considering a Sony Cybershot, but would also be open to other brands. I have a 2GB SD card so I'm not concerned about the sizes of photos from the resolutions taken in 7 or higher MP mode.

my suggestion
go to yahoo shopping
digital cameras
digital camera GUIDE
be sure to check titles on the left side
the guide should answer your questions

You should get the PENTAX Optio W30. It has TONS of features, VERY good picture quality, its sleek & stylish. And to add to all that, its waterproof! You can see the camera here: http://www.pentaximaging.com/products/pr...
I have had the PENTAX Optio W10 (a slighty older version) for a few years now and I absoloutly LOVE it!

If you liked the Canon SD300, you'll probably love the SD750. Here is a video review of the camera.
http://canon-directory.com/store/Canon/c...

Even though I personally own this ultra compact camera, I would still like to highly recommend the purchase of a Nikon Coolpix L10 for the following reasons:

1. Besides taking well-exposed hi-quality 5 megapixel pictures, it uses a standard set of rechargeable double AA batteries which last a very long time - 300 shots per set of rechargeables;
2. Has a 3x optical zoom;
3. The flash setting for "red-eye" correction is on the navigator wheel and not within a submenu;
4. It's very small and light;
5. Uses inexpensive SD memory cards;
6. The digital video feature takes wonderful "sound" videos which are noise free. It records the piano very well with it's built-in microphone;
7. It comes with a USB 2.0 transfer cable which you connect to your USB computer port;
8. Has tripod mount on bottom of camera;
9. And the price is a mere $119 [sold at Samy's Camera - www.samys.com, and Staples.com; $99 at amazon.com]

Review(s) can be found at www.amazon.com [Query: "Nikon Coolpix L10" along with pictures provided by satisfied purchasers.]

Good luck!

This site has side-by-side comparison of the most popular point n shoot cameras.
http://www.apple2apple.info