Digital cameras do everything but say cheese

Finding the perfect digital camera is not hard. If you're looking for your first camera, or replacing your current one, determine how you will use it, then look for the features you need in your price range.

Before delving into the different types of cameras, let's take a quick look at megapixels. Fortunately, you don't have to worry about this aspect too much. Most standalone digital cameras have at least 3 megapixels of resolution; that's good for printing a clear 8-by-10-inch picture.

However, if you want to crop a picture and then print an 8-by-10, or if you need super-size prints, you'll want 4 megapixels or more.

• Do you just want to turn on your camera, point it at your subject and click the button? Take a look at the compact camera category. These easy-to-use cameras do just about everything but say "cheese."

You will have some control over how the camera takes the picture. Most have flash options (off, on, fill, red-eye reduction). They also have pre-programmed exposure modes. The modes will automatically change the camera's exposure to accommodate different conditions, such as bright or low-lit areas or action shots.

Compact cameras will sell for $150 to $300. Some camera companies have suggested retail pricing and others don't. All prices listed here are the lowest found on the Internet.

Some well-reviewed compact cameras are the Canon PowerShot A510, www.consumer.usa.canon.com; $150; 3 megapixels, Kodak EasyShare CX7430. www.kodak.com; $180; 4 megapixels, and the Hewlett-Packard Photosmart R717, www.hp.com; $220; 6 megapixels.

Smaller versions that fit into your pocket are sleeker, thinner, lighter and often snazzier. But that style usually means a larger price tag. Some standouts in this category are the Canon PowerShot SD300 ($240; 4 megapixels), Casio Exilim EX-750, www.casio.com, ($325; 7 megapixels), and the Pentax Optio SV, www.pentaximaging.com; (under $235; 5 megapixels).

• Need more controls? Many models allow you to manually focus the camera and adjust shutter and aperture settings.

The Fujifilm FinePix E550, www.fujifilm.com, ($250; 6 megapixels), the Olympus C-7070 Wide Zoom, www.olympusamerica.com, ($450; 7 megapixels), and the Canon PowerShot S60, ($235; 5 megapixels) have received good reviews.