Looking for a digital camera that takes clear pictures without a flash?

If you are really on a budget and want the best quality for the money, check out the P&S Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 [with a Leica lense and Live View] which has more features than most pro DSLRs that require auxiliary lenses not even equal to the single initial full-range lense that comes with the FZ28. It is reviewed at:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/panaso...

It's an all-in-one 10.1 megapixel digital camera which includes (i) built-in image stabilization and Live Action viewer; (ii) HD720 quality video [Quicktime] which permits zooming while videoing skateboarding, action sports; (iii) a 18x zoom [27 - 486 mm (35mm equiv.)] "Leica" lense for "nature" and concert photography; (iv) up to 0.39 inch macro option; (v) up to 6400 ASA; (vi) takes up to 380 pictures per 120 min. battery charge; (vii) has a "burst speed" of 13 fps; and sells new for $464 at amazon.com. in the U.S.

Here's an actual handheld picture of the moon:

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/bf/...

Good luck!

What you need is a DSLR with a relatively fast lens. The reason your shots are blurry is that your shutter speed is too slow. In order to freeze action you need a shutter speed of at least 1/250 of a second. This is tough indoors. Especially with point and shoot cameras. The other thing that contributes to your blurry photos is shutter lag. This is the time that it takes from pressing the shutter release to when the camera actually takes the picture. Kids don't stay still long and if your waiting for your camera to take the picture your doomed.

DSLR's don't have this problem. It is instantaneous. With a DSLR you also have complete control over your shutter speed, aperture and ISO. You can also choose lenses that perform very well in low light.

If you want good low light no flash performance I would look at a entry level DSLR like a Canon Rebel XS or a Nikon D40. I would also think about getting a 50mm F1.8 lens. This is the cheapest lens available for both companies and is very good in low light. Total cost would be about $600 for the camera with a kit zoom lens and a 50mm F1.8.

I would suggest the Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

I recommend Canon Rebel XS