We currently have a Canon PC1038, it takes forever for the photo to take (shutter speed??). What would be a better option for us, we need speed :-)?

Hi Christy,
No problem. The shutter lag is tricky because camera manufacturers don't officially test it and list it as a specification, so the only way to really find out is to read reviews and listen to what users are saying.

Normally I would recommend Canon over Sony because I think they're more usable cameras, and their customer service and support tends to be a lot better. But strictly in terms of shutter lag, I think the new Sonys are winning. I have heard complaints on bad lag times on some of the newer Canons (although not all of them), and if you put a comparable Canon and Sony side by side the Sony tends to be faster.

With that in mind, here are a few to look at:

Sony N2 - definitely one of the faster ones out there in terms of shutter lag, start-up time etc. Has a nice big 3 inch LCD which I think is more durable than the large LCDs on the Canon Powershots. However, although our review says that it does, according to Sony's website the N2 doesn't have image stabilization. That isn't a necessary feature, but if it's something you want be aware that I don't think this camera actually has it.

Cybershot T50- you mentioned this one, and it may be a good choice. Shutter lag is about .28 seconds with normal settings (no flash, etc.) which is pretty darn good. This camera does have image stabilization.

If you do look into Canons, the A640 is my usual recommendation- the LCD is 2.5 inches but isn't as breakable as many of the ones on the little Canon Elphs (plus, it swivels!), and out of the Powershots this is one of the faster ones in terms of shutter lag, probably about .4 seconds.

You might also want to consider one of the Kodak Easyshares, like the C875. The Easyshares are nice and speedy (shutter lag around .2 seconds) and are super user friendly and easy to download photos from. (Most digital cameras are, but Kodak tends to spell it all out for you, plus this camera has PictBridge so if you have a compatible printer you can download and print without even using your computer). Also check out the Panasonic Lumix FX07- crazy fast, and a really good all-around camera.

I would definitely order online- when you click on those reviews/ camera names that I linked above, you'll see Merchant Offers on the right of the screen, with prices listed. Click on them and it will take you to the site where you can order the item. I recommend Amazon because they offer fast shipping for cheap, and because I've never once had an issue with delivery from them, so you'd be assured of getting it on time. They also offer cheaper deals than most retail stores.

Finally, one last note on shutter lag: try this tip with any camera. Before you're ready to take the shot, push the shutter button down halfway and keep your finger on it. This will let the camera 'frame' the shot, which is what takes up so much time. When you're ready to take the photo, push it the rest of the way, and it will fire almost instantly. This helps immensely in fast situations.

Let me know if you need further advice and I'll be happy to help!