Canon PowerShot A590IS 8MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

I'm a casual camera user-- almost never tweak settings like a knowledgeable photographer. I've owned about five digital cameras before the Canon PowerShot A590 IS, and I'm stunned at the difference. This little camera is a revelation for me. It's like the leap from a disposable to a 35mm SLR. The clarity and color are great, and probably most importantly, the image-stabilization reverses my "good photo" ratio. Know what I mean? With previous cameras, perhaps 20% of them were sharp enough to really use. With this one, at least 80% of them are. In fact, after having taken only a few dozen photos, I'm over 90%. In low light and with moving images or a moving/shaking camera, you can't beat this for value and performance.

As of November 2008, I cannot recommend any camera without optical (NOT digital!) image stabilization. Canon has been doing IS for years (I have a pair of their IS-empowered binoculars-- also great!), and for the current price of $110, this thing is amazing.

Good luck! But whatever you do, get optical IS!!!

This is the best entry level camera for your $.

Pros:
- Same as the A580 with the addition of image stabilization
- 8 megapixel
- Excellent image quality. It has Canon's Digic III image processor.
- Canon Genuine Face Detection Technology. Automatically detects, tracks, focuses and optimizes the exposure on up-to nine human faces in the frame.
- Good in low light
- Long battery life. Uses 2 regular double AA batteries.
- Zoom is 4X.
- Fast startup. When you turn on the camera, you can almost shoot right away.
- Huge 2.5 LCD screen + viewfinder
- Manual control for ISO (80 to 1600)
- Built-in speaker
- Shoots 640x480 video with audio

Cons:
- Feels small and awkward in your hands

Its hard to find a decent digital camera under $200. I'm pleased with the purchase. It does fine for everyday family event and vacation photos. I didn't want a "midget" camera, and this has a nice feel to it. Great for the price.

I am thoroughly impressed by this little guy. Very good picture quality and so many features it's incredible. If you are just starting out in photography, I can't think of a better place to begin than with this camera. Highly recommended.

I have bought several Canon Powershot cameras over the years, going way back to 35 mm film. The digital cameras are completely user friendly, moderately priced and give you great pictures. I usually wait until the prices come down (after a new model is introduced - maybe the next year or so). The A590IS uses 2 AA batteries (no need to worry about rechargeables - just throw away the used ones, put in GOOD quality batteries, and start clicking). I also bought an inexpensive data card (4 GB)and don't expect to fill it up. I usually download and delete anyway. This camera is a good deal for the novice as well as the more experienced. I always carry it in my car or motorcycle, ready for the photo ops.