This is the camera that I purchased and is responsible for most of the pictures you see on my website.  This is a point and shoot camera that retails for about $550.00.

The new Panasonic cameras are worth a look as the have features that most people believe they have to pay much more for.  I chose the DMC FZ20 because this camera is completely manual if you want and even have a focusing ring on the lens.  They act and feel like an SLR film camera.  Through the Lens viewing is done with electronics instead of a flip up mirror like you would have on a DSLR.

The Leica optics are first rate and the pictures are warm and rich.  I bought this camera as it was able to make use of the Helicon software that allows for an incredible depth of field 

Cameras are very much a personal choice kind of thing.  I just hold this up as a very capable candidate if you are looking for one