Best digital camera bargains

Canon PowerShot

You’re a casual snapper who always carries a camera.

An ultracompact model with simple settings

Canon PowerShot SD780 IS, $215, 12.1 megapixels, 3X optical zoom

The pocket-size SD780 is ahead of its peers in terms of resolution (prints will look good up to 13 inches by 19 inches) and in the fact that it has optical image stabilization, which fights blurring caused by camera shake.

Sony Cyber-Shot

You have some photo skills but don’t want to lug around lenses.

A more sophisticated model with a long-range lens and optional manual controls

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX1, $400, 9.1 megapixels, 20X optical zoom

The DSC-HX1 matches pricier pro models with its ability to shoot 10 frames a second. You can fiddle with aperture, shutter speed, and white balance - or let the HX1 adjust automatically. It’s your choice.

Panasonic Lumix

You’d like to make basic shots special - without much work.

A compact camera that can magnify distant objects and shoot wide angles

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3, $315, 10.1 megapixels, 12X optical zoom

Besides having a long zoom lens (great for close-ups), the Lumix can also shoot in ultrawide 25mm, making for dramatic panoramas. This model can even remember favorite faces and autofocus on them in a crowd.

Nikon D3000

You’re prepared to go all out to get the perfect shot.

A single-lens reflex (SLR) camera with changeable lenses and manual settings

Nikon D3000, $592, 10.2 megapixels, 3X optical zoom with standard lens

It uses 11 points to focus a photo, unusual for an entry-level SLR. Plus, built-in editing tools help perfect a picture without a trip to the computer. Bonus: Onscreen guidance makes it easy to learn to use the D3000.