Newbie looking for a camera

[liphook]

Hello

Im looking for a compact digital camera that will be used for general use, ie - family holidays, days out, pictures of the children.

have seen some i like, for instance

panasonic lumix tz56 (i think) in currys for £149, but its been discontinued.

also the fuji finepic f72 exr at jessops for £159

both have 10 - 12 mega pixels, and both have 10/12 x optical zoom

Im willing to spend between £150 - £180, and would like to find the best camera in that range

any suggestions please.

[Paul Nuttall]

When considering your need for a large optical zoom at that price point, it could be worth taking a look at the Fujifilm S1500.

The S1500 is 10MP and offers a 12x zoom. You can pick it up for under your budget, and it scored pretty well then we tested it last August. Check out the review here -

http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/reviews/compactcameras/27123/1/fujifilm-finepix-s1500-review.html