Cameras for Christmas

If you're looking for a bargain this year to give to a loved one, or something a bit special for the photographer in your family, look no further. We've compiled a list of every model from the very basics up to the most complex DSLRs, separating them into price and potential recipient, so you next exactly which camera to purchase for whom.

The Younger Relative

Panasonic FS16

This impressivey priced, well specced compact is just about perfect for those not wanting to spend a huge amount of cash on a gift, as it sits at below £100. There isn't much in the way of technical knowledge required to take a decent snap, and the 720HD movie mode takes a video clip good enough for the TV or Facebook.

Key Features;

• 28mm Wide-angle 4x Optical Zoom LEICA Lens
• Optical Image Stabilizer
• Intelligent Auto Mode
• HD Movie Recording

The Style-conscious

Canon IXUS 115 HS

The entire IXUS range is one concerned with style, offered brushed metallic casings and rounded edges. This impressive aesthetic will undoubtedly make the more appearance-conscious recipient impressed, with the 12MP sensor and 4x stabilized zoom ensuring the image quality is decent as well.

Key Features

• 12.1 MP sensor
• 28mm, 4x zoom with optical IS
• Slim metal body
• 3.0inch LCD
• Full HD movie mode

The Sports Shooter

Casio Exilim ZR10

For those wanting to take images of fast moving objects you'd be forgiven for thinking a DSLR is the only option. Thanks to the Casio ZR10 this no longer the case, as a low res 480fps shooting mode is present alongside a 10MP 10fps mode, making it perfect for motor sports or action shots.   

Key Features

• 10 MP sensor
• 480fps low res shooting mode
• 10fps burst mode
• 3.0inch LCD

The Extreme Sports Enthusiast

Panasonic FT3

One of our favourite tough cameras can stand up to a number of the kind of situations that would destroy a standard compact. The Panasonic FT3 can be dropped, frozen and dunked underwater without suffering any terminal damage, living to take 12MP stills and HD movies.

Key Features

• 12MP sensor
• 2m drop proof
• 12m waterproof
• Freezeproof

The Aspiring Amateur

Canon PowerShot S100

The Canon S100 packs plenty into its small frame, from GPS functionality to a 24mm wide-angle lens. The manual controls allow for the likes of shutter speed and aperture to be altered, making it perfect for the aspiring amateur photographer to chance their arm at taking full control.     

Key Features

• Full manual controls
• 12mp sensor
• Lens control ring
• HD movie mode

The Holiday Maker

Sony CyberShot HX9

Thanks to the built-in GPS on the Sony HX9 you needn't remember where each shot is taken, as the camera will tell you. Add to that a full res HD movie mode, 16x optical zoom and 16MP sensor and you've got a compact that will act as the perfect traveling companion for any holiday-makers.

Key Features

• Full manual controls
• 12mp sensor
• Lens control ring
• HD movie mode