Canon A2000 IS or the Canon SX10-IS?

I know there is a HUGE difference between these 2 cameras but I really need help deciding which one would be best for me. I love all the features of the SX10 and would really love to have that camera but. Our camera is mostly used for pictures of the kids and such. I really want a camera that can grow with us as our children are young now. I want a camera that won't miss the quick cute moments like my current Olympus D-535 does. I also like the thought of the being able to use the camera for video in those instances where dragging out the camcorder isn't so easy. Do I go for the SX10 or would the A2000 be a better fit? Or is there another suggestion? I just want a really good camera that will make me happy with the results.

I think it largely depends on if you're wanting a more portable, shirt pocket option. THe SX10 has a larger zoom, so that may also play into it.

As for not missing moments due to "shutter lag," every point and shoot camera suffers from it. It's the delay which happens between triggering the shutter and when the photograph is actually recorded. And what's interesting is, that DSLRs dont' have a lag issue at all. Or, it's nearly non existent. It's a common problem with point and shoot cameras. But there are ways to combat it.

1. Prefocus. Hold down the shutter half way to get a prefocus of the image you're shooting. When it changes, prefocus again. This will speed up your camera's performance during picture taking since it won't have to autofocus before it shoots the shot.

2. Use faster SD cards. Yes, there are faster cards and it does make a difference in writing the image file to the card. This is especially key if you're taking multiple or burst images.

3. Fresher batteries. Use alkalines at least. But I recommend using high energy batteries designed for digital photography. Varta is a good brand. They are usually sold in camera shops, are long lasting (because they are sold in small quantities) put out alot of energy.

4. Pan with the action. You can create some pretty cool shots by panning with your shot, focusing on your subject. This will create the effect of your subject in sharp contrast to the blurry background.

6. Stick with 100-400 ISO. Going higher will cause more noise/grain in your shots, particularly in darker settings.

Doing these, particularly prefocusing and panning with the action will cut your shutter lag by as much as 80%.

Ok...James...can you help me out a little bit more? Having a camera that fits in my pocket is not a huge deal...but having one that I like the results I get is. So if we leave size out of the issue ('cause I'm comfortable with that since, I checked it out in the store)...Would it be worth it for me to buy the SX10 for taking pics of the kids, close ups and farther away like at gymnastics but not using it for much else? I do really want that camera but I need to validate it to myself that it won't be overkill for what I'm going to use it for.

Thanks James! I'll be ordering it soon! I can't wait!