Hello all, I have a Toshiba digital camera that is getting old -- I've had it nearly 7 years. It still works fine, but I fear that something is going to give in the future and it will need to be replaced (maybe the battery?). It works very well to copy documents, newspapers that are too fragile to photocopy, and to take general indoor or outdoor photos (family, tombstones, etc.). I have read that a genealogist's needs for a digital camera are special, and I agree. However, how does one go about finding one that will meet our needs? You can see I'm planning ahead! Perhaps a list of criteria to present to the camera shop or elsewhere???? Thanks, Ellen State College, PA

Hi, Look for the camera with these features: 1) at least 4+ mega-pixels (more better) 2) at least 12x optical zoom for close ups (documents, headstones, etc). Mind you optical NOT digital. Digital does not matter! 3) a swivel screen - IMHO, a must for taking pictures of documents laid out on a table or in the microfilm booth 4) auto AND FULL manual controls - important in the low light (no flash allowed) places like archives 5) a viewfinder in addition to the LCD screen. Some cameras do not have it and the LCD screens are difficult to read esp. outdoors 5) picture stabilization feature - great for not quite steady hand 6) make sure it has the tripod hole because not all cameras have them 7) optional but extremely handy - a remote control 8) AA batteries rather than the proprietary one The rest like size and brand is a personal preference. Ella