The big negative on this model, and from what I understand, lots of the Coolpix models from around the same time, is the slow shutter speed and slow recovery. You can't snap a picture quickly when something is happening, which stinks. I do like all the features; white balance for different kinds of light, closeup mode, good zoom, etc. Now I'm no professional, but for the kinds of things I use it for, it's perfect. My big problem with electronics of any kind is that I refuse to read the instruction manual, relying on trial and error to figure out how to work the damn thing.

I use this camera all the time to shoot my artwork, and if you know how to set up to shoot artwork, you can get excellent results with a low-end digital camera. Outdoors, slightly overcast, is best. I also set it up on a tripod, and don't use a flash. I try, sometimes, to shoot inside without the flash and no tripod, but you inevitably end up with a blurry image because it's impossible to keep the camera perfectly steady, especially when you drink as much coffee as I do. I also know how to use Photoshop, which really helps with image cleanup.

When shopping for cameras or other electronics as gifts or for myself, I usually look at reviews on consumer reports and/or cnet, and then shop online for the best prices. If I were buying a more professional-grade camera, I might look at the Nikon D300. 12.5 megapixels. Wow. I'm not sure if my brother-in-law uses a digital these days, but this is the sort of thing he'd probably use. If I had unlimited funds to buy Christmas gifts, this would be on the list. Happy Shopping!