Xmas $ = New Camera

[MinibowMatt]

I was able to secure some xmas cash this year and I am interested in purchasing a new camera. I want one that is affordable 200-350$, and still will offer quality pictures in a macro setting. I want the closeups I see in this forum! I cant afford Digital SLR.

How is the Canon Powershot S3 IS? It is right at the top of my pricerange, but has 12x optical and 2 macro settings and the ability to control lots of other functions.

What else is comparable?

Thanx!

[lessthanlights]

try www.dpreview.com lots of info!

[H20ENG]

I'm in the same boat. Looking for a new camera and was comparing the S3IS and the Panasonic DMCFZ7. You can get really good deals on the FZ7 -like $260 with a chip at Costco- and it gets comparable ratings at dpreview.