Need to buy a camera for work

Hi all! I need to buy a camera for work use - it will initially be used by someone that has "some" experience taking photos, but after that it may be used by anyone. It will be used in a wide variety of situations, both indoors and out.

At the moment I'm thinking (in order):
1. G11
2. S90
3. T1i with the 18-55 IS kit lens

I'll also need to get a memory card or two...and possibly an extra battery (as it may be used out in the cold)

The budget is under $1000 (Canadian), and I have to buy locally as we need it asap.

Any suggestions??

May I ask what kind of work?

I have a good friend who works for a screen printing company that puts custom graphics on clothing, he came to me a while back asking what kind of camera they should get to take pictures of their products for Amazon, I suggested that they hire someone ( Like me ) to do it for them but he didn't listen. They bought a G-series Canon and about a week later he was having me shoot for them with my DSLR. They then went out and bought a DSLR thinking they could get the same results...only problem was, no one knew how to operate it. A week later, I'm shooting their products again.

I guess it depends on what your shooting and how crucial the IQ of final results are. If it's just pictures of machines and stuff around a plant for general reference, or group shots and office party pics for the cheap company calendar... then a nice P&S will probably suffice. If it's pictures of products for catalogs or internet viewing then I would hire someone or get the DSLR, and to avoid the situation I described above, then have someone trained how to operate it correctly.

It will be used to document various events...with some photos being used for web use and maybe print.

I'm hoping that I'll be allowed to go too, in which case I'll be using my own gear.

Well, if it's on the companies dime, then what the hell...get the T1i kit

There's a green box mode for amateurs on there, and if you ever have to use it then you have much more to work with than a P&S. Dynamic range will be better for your outdoor photographs, much better on board flash for the indoor stuff.

Going shopping tomorrow or thursday

Thanks for your help

Since you said "indoors and out" I'd try to squeeze a flash into the budget. 270EX at minimum. Drop to the XSi if you have to, but a real flash is going to be essential. I'd probably rather have the G11 or SX20 with a hotshoe flash than just the kit lens and a t1i.

Thanks, noted. However, flash may not be an option in some situations

Events? Night clubs? Can get away with a G9/G10 and a 430EX. Ive used it in the past and its been great where you don't have much space to work with.

If you can get the G11/430EX II i would go for it.