Good point and shoot for beginners and shutter-bugs alike

I debated for weeks over which camera to buy as my first digital camera. I had used them before, but never owned one. I actually had considered another brand altogether, but after all my research and visits to camera shops, I kept returning to the Canon PowerShot because it had the features I wanted and needed, and some of the extras. The 4x optical zoom is great, and a good compromise between the common 3x and newer 5x zooms. I appreciate the optical viewfinder on many occasions and the camera's ergonomics make this camera easy to keep ready for snapping memories. The 7.1 megapixels create a quality image, especially for average needs. The price was very comparable as well. I felt I got an excellent deal and a quality camera that is fun to use. The only things I wish were different are the slow flash recharge (though not uncommonly slow) and the size. While I don't need to pack a camera in my pocket often, it would be nice if the camera was a little slimmer for toting, especially compared to it's competitors. However, the "handle" is comfortable to use, and the flash is in a good position where my finger won't accidentally cover it as it goes off.
***NOTE: many reviews of these newer digital cameras comment on the "noise in higher ISO's." I just want to comment in my own experience with photography, that in general, any photo shot in a high ISO (such as over 400) will have noise (especially in enlargements), simply because that is how it works. In film, the lower the ISO, the finer the "grain;" higher ISO's are used in low light, or in situations where the action is fast. If you want a large, fine quality image, then make sure your ISO isn't above 400, preferably not over 200. I just wanted to say this because some novice users, or beginners might be deterred from purchasing a camera with a review commenting on a common issue in photography, in general.
You won't regret your Canon PowerShot purchase and will be ready to snap, shoot, and share your new images from the moment you start it up.