Confound it all, I had a big long response all typed up and "database error". TFF hates me! ;-; The one time I don't copy it first...dammit!

Anyways, the gist of it was that I've been doing some research, I'm just having a hard time deciphering the technical stuff. The $150 range is a just a base figure, I am willing to go higher, but when I factor in all the extra costs like memory cards and batteries, it becomes less manageable on my current paycheck.

When it comes to cameras, I only know the basics of 'em. So I'm not sure what it would translate to on the specs. I'm looking for something that would be mainly personal use, but I am interested in playing with photography as an art a little bit. 5 megapixels or so would be preferable, not sure on the print quality but the biggest print I'd go for would be an 8x10, though unlikely.

Honestly, I've been eying the Canon Powershot 560 and 570, they both look nice. A bit pricey, but I've heard a lot of good about the series. I'm just wary about having to put the price before the quality, thanks to my Vivicam. It was cheap, and it's very obvious.

So more of a middle of the road kind of thing, I don't need a lot of features, but I wouldn't mind having a few options. Optical zoom for sure though, digital zoom is nowhere near as good in my (limited) experience.

Thank you for the recommendations so far though, I will be sure to check them out. ^^ It's so hard trying to compare everything. ;-; Too many choices!

~DragonHeart~