At least 5MP, I prefer a 2.5 LCD screen and the more compact the better. TIA! i bought this one recently.. and the result is good so far,,, so try it, It is tempting to find a camera that uses AA batteries because if in a bind, you can always substitute non-rechargeable batteries, although they don't last nearly as long as the recommended NiMH ones.
The state of the art in rechargeable batteries is the Li-ion. These are the batteries the pros use in their $5,000 camera bodies because they last so long.
I recently was on a 9 1/2 week photo shoot and only had to recharge the two batteries (I use a MB-B200 which holds two batteries) one time. Sure I used some energy management and that always helps.
Take a look at the below Link and look around for what you want. Any number of Canon Powershot A-series cameras use "AA" batteries. The A460 is the smallest of the bunch, but I'd encourage you to look at least to the A560 for general quality and the 2.5" LCD that you request.
Canon A560: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2007_revi... I would also recommend Canon.
The A560 is a very good camera with 7.1MP, 4x optical zoom and a 2.5" LCD. It will provide you with up to 500 shots when using rechargeable AA size, NiMH (2500-2700mAh).
Also, the A570 IS...which is a slightly better model with full manual controls (aperture & shutter priority)... plus image stabilization). It has a slightly lower battery life of up to 400 shots or so.
But, it's the model to get if you want the option of selecting your own aperture and shutter speed...and the added benefit of image stabilization.
Both cameras also feature an excellent moviemode.
A high speed SD memory card is highly recommended (Sandisk Extreme III..fast, reliable, lifetime warranty). 1-2GB.
good luck... 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;
2. Has a 3x optical zoom;
3. Has a macro feature to allow picture taking under 6 inches;
4. The flash setting for "red-eye" correction is on the navigator wheel and not within a submenu;
5. It's very small and light;
6. Uses inexpensive SD memory cards;
7. The digital video feature takes wonderful "sound" videos which are noise free. It records the piano very well with it's built-in microphone;
8. It comes with a USB 2.0 transfer cable which you connect to your USB computer port;
9. Has tripod mount on bottom of camera;
10. And the price is a mere $99 [sold at Samy's Camera - www.samys.com, and Staples.com.]
Review(s) can be found at www.amazon.com [Query: "Nikon Coolpix L10" along with pictures provided by satisfied purchasers.]
Good luck! | 