I am finally about to make the switch to digital. I would like 10-12X zoom and 5-6 mp.

How important is image stabilization with 10-12 zoom?

I have looked at the Kodak Z650 and Z612 and i am sure there are others that are comparable.

Any suggestions, recommendations, features to loook for, etc.?

My Sony H-1 has a 12x zoom which is equivalent to 35-435mm. Anything over 200mm will require a tripod or stabilizer. I'm very happy with the H-1 [now H-2 and H-5] ,very versatile and great value.That zoom with stabilizer makes for a very handy camera and much less opportunity missed and much less cropping.It's not to big or heavy .It also focuses to about 2 " And has features I'll probably never use. Lots of camera for $ 400 list !!www.dpreview.com has very detailed tests .The Canon S3 comes the closest to the Sony.

We have just returned froim hunting in Africa, and have used several cameras that have 12x zoom.

Including the Sony H5, Canon S3 IS the Panasonic FZ7 and FZ30.

Without any doubt, the Panasonic cameras are the best of the lot.

They both have image stabilizers, which are essential for high magnification.

Leica is now introducing a similar camera ,the Leica V-LUX-1 . 12x ,stabilized etc.

I have a Sony H1. I've always been happy with the pictures. While a stabilizer helps for real hi magnification it is hard to beat a tripod. Even a monopod beats holding it yourself.

Lots of reviews and information;

http://www.steves-digicams.com/

I just purchased the Nikon D80 with Nikkor 28-80 and 70-300 lenses. I also purchased a 2x for the 70-300 for hunting shots. The entire set up was $1199 at Wolf/Ritz Camera. This was the best REAL price I could find. (Beware of Cheapcameras.com)

So far I am very pleased. I had a photographer come to the house to take photos of the family and she had a D70.....Once she saw the D80 she used it to take all her photos and they turned out great.Go to www.photobiologist.com and take a look at his work with the D70. He is the one who talked me into the D80.

http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g114/Bruz69/DSC_0029.jpg


Good Luck,

Bruz