Buying a camera is fustrating

[asmithz]

There are so many mixed reviews on almost every camera. Obviously the best camera is gonna cost a lot. But I don't want to best and I don't want to spend a lot. I really just want a camera I can get decent pictures from, I am not photographer I don't care.

I've been looking at this
http://www.amazon.com/Kodak-Easyshare-Digital-Camera-Optical/dp/B000S7QA8G/ref=pd_bbs_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1213303114&sr=8-3

because I can goto the store next to my place and grab it for $129. Most the reviews on amazon are good but you go else where and people say it sucks. :frusty:

[kooftspc11]

the main problem with choosing a camera is having to compromise optical zoom for size. if you want a small camera you are not going to be able to really use your zoom. if you just want a camera to take pictures with and dont expect anything special i guess that kodak you are looking at will be fine for you.

but....if you want something a bit more versatile i would go with this one http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16830170149

or if zoom is really important to you then maybe try this one (for its price this one is definitely my favorite) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16830170160

[IdolEyes787]

You said that you didn't want to spend a lot on a camera but give me a realistic upper limit.
Is camera size important to you?Unless you say differently I'm assuming you're looking for something that you can easily carry.
Optical zoom is pretty important and 3X is as about as low as it gets but like said compacts are pretty limited(digital zoom does mean shit btw).
How many mp a camera is doesn't really matter unless you are planning to blow-up your pictures.
Software is important and Kodak's is good and easy to use.

If you want something durable and super easy to use that takes good pictures,I can recommend this FujiFilm Z100. I got one for my niece at Christmas after doing a lot of research.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16830122138

She's 8 by the way and here a picture she took with it(the camera body also comes in several colours besides basic black and silver).

http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/979/dscf0091wa6.jpg