Looking for the best PNS - advice needed

I recently bought an SD1000. I thought it was really handy and I wear it on my side in a beltloop case. I am not happy with the results from it and I am looking for a replacement. Some of the things I was not happy with include picture quality (lacks contrast and sharpness) and does not offer any flash control (I can't engage fill flash for outdoor shots). So, I'm looking for something better than the SD1000. I've also tried an Canon A630 and it seems that skin tones are horrible. Do I really have to bump up to a "G" series to get great shots? I'd rather have something I can wear on my side and not have to tote another camera bag. Thank you for your help.

snyper77 wrote in post #5854839
I recently bought an SD1000. I thought it was really handy and I wear it on my side in a beltloop case. I am not happy with the results from it and I am looking for a replacement. Some of the things I was not happy with include picture quality (lacks contrast and sharpness) and does not offer any flash control (I can't engage fill flash for outdoor shots). So, I'm looking for something better than the SD1000. I've also tried an Canon A630 and it seems that skin tones are horrible. Do I really have to bump up to a "G" series to get great shots? I'd rather have something I can wear on my side and not have to tote another camera bag. Thank you for your help.

How about A Canon Powershot SX100IS?

Check out A720IS as well, just got one this week and simply love it.

Are those the two best Canon PNS's that are non-G series? Anyone else own the A720 or SX100IS that care to offer their feelings? How about other brands? Older models too? I may get a used one on Ebay that is a few years old (maybe Nikon, Oly, etc?) Thanks!

It really depends on what your expectations are.

I have a 20Dand the lenses I have are listed in my sig, yet I really like my SX100. It may not be your cup of tea depending on what you would expect of it.

I'd like to see some examples of pics you're unhappy with that you feel a different camera would rectify or at least improve upon.

The SD series makes concessions to cameras like the SX100 or A series cameras due to size. The SD series lenses and manual control options are two of the most significant things to me. The G9 is a step up from the A series and SX100 without a significant increase in bulk. If the bulk is not an issue, then there is always the S series that I would rate IQ wise in the same ballpark as the best A series cameras and SX100, but with more bells and whistles. JMHO.

None are perfect or even close, so you have to find the one that gives you what you need and doesn't have things you can't live with. Everybody's list is a bit different, but they may still end up with and like the same camera.

I would advise doing your own priority inventory with 'needs', 'wants' and 'don't wants', and a budget. That should point you in the right direction so long as you're realistic in your expectations.

snyper77 wrote in post #5855907
Are those the two best Canon PNS's that are non-G series? Anyone else own the A720 or SX100IS that care to offer their feelings? How about other brands? Older models too? I may get a used one on Ebay that is a few years old (maybe Nikon, Oly, etc?) Thanks!

Of the point and shoot line, not including the GT series.

I would say the Canon S3 IS, Canon S5 IS