For the beginner in digital photography, I suggest a digital camera which has both automatic and manual modes to allow the individual to grow as he or she learns more about photography. Manual controls can seem daunting in the beginning but once the relationship between shutter speed and aperture is understood, a world of creative possibilities can open up. Other features to look out for include:

Speed - the ideal camera must have minimal shutter lag to allow fast picture taking. This helps the beginner to feel more at ease with taking photographs rather than concentrating on the slowness of the camera.

Manual controls - aperture priority, shutter priority and full manual control can be useful in achieving creative results, controlling depth of field, action shots and for macro photography.

Zoom lens - the zoom lens must be 3x or longer and must be capable of producing sharp high quality photos.

Size - except for some people with larger hands, a small pocketable camera is more likely to be taken out and about than a larger camera which often gets left behind.

Battery Life - the camera battery must be able to last for a reasonable time before recharging is required.

Large LCD - the LCD viewfinder must be 2" or larger to accurately view and compose the picture.

Except where otherwise stated, all the digital cameras recommended for the beginner in digital photography have the above features.