Main Things to Look For in a Camera

[Morag2]

Alright, I'm looking for a new camera (my first) and I have a tight budget, I don't think getting a specific model would help me because it all depends on what comes on sale where I live. I just want some general guidelines.

I've gathered that I probably want 3 or 4 megapixels and at least a 3X zoom, but thats about it. Anything else super important I should look for in a first camera? And it's going to need to be an all around kind of camera (close ups and landscapes) seeing as I can't afford more than one (or even one expensive one)

[rey]

I suggest you checkout Steve's Best list:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/best_cameras.html

You can checkout which ones are in your price range.

For current prices, checkout these sites:
bhphotovideo.com
adorama.com
beachcamera.com

If you're in the US, and if you can, buy it from one of those online stores, since they tend to be cheaper than local stores.

Good Luck!