Panasonic DMC-FX01?

That looks like a really nice options. Here is some info:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/PanasonicFX01/

I really like using a 28mm equiv lens for outdoor photography. 35mm equiv sceense to feel to small.

The FX01 was released in Mid February 2006 options Include: 6.4Megapixels, 28-102mm Equiv. Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Optical Zoom Lens, Advanced Mega Optical Image Stabilizer, New 16:9 840×480 pixel 30fps Movie Mode, 2.5-inch, 207,000 pixel LCD with high viewing angle option, 16 scene modes, New High sensitivity mode (ISO 800-1600), Venus Engine PLUS.

A worthy choice when I don’t want to bring my digital SLR. The FX01 is one of the smallest 28mm ultra-compact digital cameras out there. Its small but the buttons to operate are easy to access. The Leica Lens and Advanced Mega Optical Image Stabilizer are my favorite 2 features. Total weight : 153 grams includes: Camera, Battery and Memory Card.

Regards

I have the DMC-FX9 not sure if there is much of a difference. I really like it… as mentioned, the image stabilization is really nice, as well as the lens. The pics come out much more consistently good than with any other camera i’ve had. It has decent battery life, a nice big screen and easy to operate.

I should say I’m a purely amateur photographer… really just take snapshots to remember a trip by. However my girlfriend, who has done quite a bit more photography, is equally impressed by this camera.

FX01 = 6.0 Megapixels, 28mm-102mm 3.6x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom, Image Processor: Venus Engine Plus LSI, Battery Life:Up to 320 pictures on a charge,Weight: 153g with battery and card.

FX9 = 6.0 Megapixels,35mm-105mm 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom, Image Processor: Venus Engine Plus, Battery Life:Up to 240 pictures on a charge, Weight: 155g with battery and card.

Regards

The FX01 also has true 16:9 capture and playback (not a 4:3 crop) also a higher quality (more pixels) movie at 848×480 (from 640×480) again for the 16:9 playback.
Franco
2 tips
1) always use the image stabiliser on mode 2
2) minimise or eliminate panning when using the video mode

Thanks all for the feedback, I will probably be buying one of these soon.
Have any of you guys used the micro tri pods they sell here?

I’ve used an Ultrapod I for quite awhile (old enough to be Early Winters branded) with cameras up to about eight ounces.

It changes how you shoot compared to using a “real” tripod, but for what it is, it works very well. Certainly light and cheap!