If you don’t want to use a bulky DSLR camera, you might want to consider getting the Canon PowerShot S90, which comes with a super-bright f/2.0 lense and sports a 28mm lense with 3.8X zoom (equivalent to 28-105mm).

I think this is the best point and shoot digital camera you can get for the money for photos.  Apparently, Canon decided not to include HD videos on the S90 (probably because it would compete against Canon’s other high-end products) but still, this is probably the best digital camera with a “ring” control for aperture, focus, and more.

Shoot quickly with a lens control ring and get superior low-light performance with a high-sensitivity 10.0 MP CCD and f/2.0 lens.A high-sensitivity CCD sensor gives outstanding image quality in a wide variety of lighting conditions. Even images taken at high ISOs show exceptionally low noise levels and a wide dynamic range.A bright f/2.0 aperture allows exceptional versatility, capturing low-light images and fast-moving subjects at higher shutter speeds. A wide angle of 28mm lets you put more in the frame, while Canon’s optical IS reduces blur caused by camera shake.

Price: $429.99 on Amazon

Also take a look at these reviews:

• Canon PowerShot S90 with sample photos on Gizmodo
• Wired rates it 5 stars.
• CNet has a video review of S90 controls.
• Sample shots on Flickr with S90