Best Cameras For Casual Photographers | Digital Camera HQ's Holiday Buyer's Guide

Looking for something simple and to the point? These point-and-shoot digital cameras will satisfy novice and casual photographers who just want to be able to turn the camera on and start snapping away. These are the "just right" cameras, the ones that are neither too complicated to understand nor too simple to be effective. If you're a casual photographer, or are looking to buy a gift for one, these are the best point-and-shoot digital cameras you could spend your money on. Whether it's taking photos for the family album or documenting your latest vacation adventure, the following cameras won't let you down, and will allow you to learn and expand your skills without the need for a costly upgrade a year down the line.

Cheap and Simple Nikon L19 from $84.44	[Read our full Nikon L19 review] The Nikon Coolpix L19 is marketed toward the most casual of casual photographers. At 8 megapixels and 3x optical zoom, the features are typical for the cost, but users love it for its reliability and remarkably simple interface. This is a great first camera for somebody with little to zero experience with photography.
Convenient, Compact, Comfortable Canon A1000 IS from $118.95	Currently the highest-ranked point-and-shoot and most popular camera overall on Digital Camera HQ, the Canon Powershot A1000 IS has received heaps of praise since its debut more than a year ago. It's still a cinch to operate (Easy Mode offers tips and suggestions to the user on the LCD display), but the user has more control over the settings than with, say, the Nikon L19. The body itself is visually appealing and easy to handle, while other specs include a 10 megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, and image stabilization.
High Quality, No-Fuss Point-and-Shoot Panasonic LX3 from $429.95	Do you know a casual photographer that likes to step into the role of "official family photographer" every now and then? Consider buying them a Panasonic Lumix LX3. The price is a bit steep, but it's a no-fuss camera with fast response and great picture quality, featuring 10 megapixels, 2.5x optical zoom, 24mm wide-angle lens, ISO speeds up to 6400 and the ability to shoot in a number of aspect ratios and 720p HD video. It'll capture those priceless family events in style.