All I want is a good-quality camera that will take pictures QUICKLY! For action, for those little instants you don't want to miss. What is the fastest camera under 400$?

Erica --

I think this year's crop of cameras is just a little better than last year's, and those better than before in the whole "speed" issue. So going with a new camera that's similar to your Dad's might be all you need. Any of these cameras under $400 are a good bet, but consider the Canon A710 IS or the very well rated Sony H5. They are two different cameras: you'll probably get better speed with the Sony, but it's also a somewhat bigger camera. Also look for faster (higher number) ISO and image stabilization, both of which can help deal with low-light situations.

But there's one thing to consider that has made all the difference with my older point-and-shoot camera: I used to hate it because it was so slow. But there's a trick: the half-shutter-press. Hold the shutter button down half-way until the camera locks on focus and exposure, then follow the subject (with button still half-down) until you get the shot you want, then finish the shot. It's the focus and exposure part that takes all the time, even in the best cameras.

Finally, the really inexpensive cameras are still slow. And don't go for extra megapixels if you don't need them -- I cannot understand why the manufacturers are putting 10MP sensors in regular point-and-shoot cameras -- how many 20x30 prints do you make? :-)