i would like to get a digital camera but i don't know a lot about them. anyone have any recommendations or at least some important features to have?

i don't really need a professional grade, i just want something that takes good quality pictures and is easy to upload pictures to my computer. it would be nice if the camera was of a smaller size so it's easy to take with me but not important.

is there a particular place that is better to purchase the camera from over another?

 

My personal recommendation is the SONY Mavica line of cameras. I have one that goes to 4.X megapixels, that's the highest resolution in the line. The neat thing about the Mavica line is that the cameras save the pictures to either a mini CD or a floppy (not sure if they still make that model). So no fuss with a flash stick, and a mini CD stores more pics than most flash sticks anyway. When you're ready to put the pics on your computer, just perform a short function on the camera and the disc is ready for viewing.

Dreamer1Q also has a Mavica camera, and I know he joins me in endorsing the line.

The only drawbacks that I have found with the camera are:

1.) It doesn't have a night-shot mode.
2.) It's kind of on the large size.
3.) You can't zoom in and out while recording video clips.

What do you plan on taking pictures of with this camera? That makes a difference in the kinds of things you should look for in your camera search.

 

I also like the Canon G3/G5 cameras.

 

I just purchased a Kodak CX-6330 at SAM's Club about 3 weeks ago. It is small and will take 9 minute videos if you purchase the optional 128mb memory card ($40) it will also take over 120 pictures on one card. The picture quality is excellent and is very easy to use. For $279 it also comes with a docking station included in the purchase. Anywhere else the docking station is seperate ($80). You plug the docking station into your USB port and place the camera in the cradle. Simply press one button on the docking station and it uploads your pictures. I am not camera smart, but this is just as easy to use as a 35mm camera....I'm in the process of looking for a small camera case with a belt clip on it right now so I can just attach it to my belt. It's not much larger than my cell phone....