Overview
Once you have around 4 Megapixels, the quality will be good enough for most photographers, and a 3 times optical zoom is the minimum you should look for. After that, styling, ease of use and size of the camera are all important. Here is our selection of the models to have on your short list.

Best Small Compact
Pentax Optio S5i

So small and light you can take it anywhere. 5 mega pixels and 3 times optical zoom.

Best All Rounder
Canon Ixus 500.

Sleek and sexy, with more than enough mega pixels for large prints. Plenty of modes for the inquisitive amongst you. Overall it’s easy to use with simple buttons which means taking photos is as it should be - fun and stress free!

Best Digital SLR
Canon EOS 300D

Be as creative as you please with a full body SLR and interchangeable lenses. Good battery life, 6.3 Megapixels and the ability to store images in both RAW and JPEG formats. Be sure to leave space for it in your luggage

Recommended: Nikon D70