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One of the latest “A” series models from Canon this year, the PowerShot A470 is one of the best deals available for an entry-level digital camera. The combination of excellent quality images, increased performance from previous models and the all around ease of use makes this camera perfect for anyone looking for their first digital camera or someone needing a simple camera to keep for use on a moments notice. With an estimated price of US$130 or less, the A470 is almost impossible to beat when looking for quality and affordability. 

“The Olympus Stylus 1200 is another great addition to the Stylus line. The performance was a little slower than on previous models, but the image quality has not suffered and neither has the ease of use of the camera. This is a good deal when you consider the MSRP of US$350 or less. If you like the features of this camera and don’t mind having less than a 12-megapixel imaging sensor or you would like to have a little more zoom capabilities, check one of the other Stylus models with slightly different features and prices (like the 8-megapixel, 5x zoom Stylus 830).”

“Priced at a MSRP of $1,699, there’s a lot to like about the E-3 (and the Olympus lens and accessory system). The camera produced excellent shots and is quite responsive. Much improved shooting performance (over the E-1), superb image quality and the combination of image stabilization and anti-dust technology makes the E-3 a challenger in the heavyweight professional camera market. This is a professional dSLR, but the balanced handling and logical controls will make the E-3 attractive to any photographer ready to step up to a durable, pro-level camera system.”

With a street price of US$159 or less, the FujiFilm Finepix F480 is an appealing entry-level, 8-megapixel model. This is a simple camera, that doesn’t offer all of the fancy features found on other, more expensive digicams. If you’re one who is just getting into the digital market, and want a compact point-n-shoot model, the F480 will please. It can capture nice photos, has a versatile “Wide” zoom range and includes a very nice LCD. The only downfalls of this model are, the shooting performance isn’t quite up to par, and you can only record QVGA (320x240) video. Be sure to check out our reviews of other “F” series models for 2007, like the FinePix F40fd and F50fd. 

Bottom line - the Stylus 770 SW is a good digicam for the active user needing a weather resistant/water proof camera,while Olympus claims it is also “Shock Proof” up to 5 feet, we opted not to test this feature. The 770’s 7-megapixel SHQ images have plenty of resolution to create high-quality prints up to 13x19 inches or larger, however we had some issues with the poor position of the lens and the below average results of its VGA movie mode. With an MSRP of $379.99, it offers a good value for a 7-megapixel underwater capable digicam. 

Pentax’s new Optio A30 is the 2007 upgrade of their popular A10, and now takes the seat as the highest resolution compact model they have to offer as of 4/2007. With high-end features like a 10-megapixel imager, 3x optical zoom lens, digital Shake Reduction technology, large 2.5-inch LCD, Face Recognition AF & AE technology as well as various user friendly exposure modes, this point-n-shoot model can be used by every member of your household or office…