Digital cameras?

You did not mention how much you can afford for it, so I can only suggest some general to pay attention to. Just look into some tests and comparasions.

- For nature photos, you will need a large range of zooming, 8x optical zoom at least (digital zoom is ruining the image quality).

- Good macro abilities (should have a closepoint of smaller than 10 cm for photohraphing small parts of the nature).

- Quick shutter speed for your daughter's quick movements, 1/2000 sec or 1/4000 sec would be even better.

- At least 6 MegaPixels resolution is recommended to have fine photos.

Do you want a small compact camera, or you do not mind having an SLR (big, heavy and lenses can be changed for different purposes). It's not the SLR what costs a lot, but the additional equipments: lenses, filters, tripod,...

As for me, I have a Canon EOS 350D with 4 lenses (two of them quite big and heavy), I trully love it, but sometimes I need a schoolbag to carry them all. :-) Nikons are also excellent, I have anyway very few experience with them.

I agree that money is a huge factor. If you have the money, go for an SLR - they are made these days simple enough to point and shoot with, or use professionally. You'll be looking at $500-$1200 to start with that though.

I shoot a Nikon D70s - I believe it is being replaced by the D80 right now. It's a fantastic camera!

http://www.burningtreephotos.com/

I have an Olympus SP-320 and it's simply excellent. From landscapes to minimal views (like a bee on a flower) it has an optimal performance. And it's relatively cheap.

Post a new question telling us HOW MUCH you want to spend. It makes a huge difference in getting a meaningful answer.

Try sony or kodak

try Canon.com