Originally Posted by
Fred Sagen
Considering your limited experience in photography, I'd recommend the G12.
It has all the controls that you will need, is the least expensive option and you have the added advantage of a family member who can assist you with any problems that you encounter.
It will be an ideal learning tool and is compact enough to be a constant companion for those 'impulse moments' when you need a readily available camera and a camera-phone won't suffice
See if you can convince your brother that he needs to upgrade and then get him to sell you his G12 at 'family rates'..