When I was browsing at the camera store and asked to see the larger P&S (point and shoot) models I was told that the G6 (my current camera) isn't considered a point and shoot because it has the manual controls.

In my reading, I see that models like the G6 are considered "bridge" models between P&S and SLR.

Anyway, I finally made a decision after reading the reviews and the discussion boards and am waiting for my new Panasonic DMC-FZ8 to be delivered. I can hardly wait to try it out.

My favorites in this category would be:

a) Fuji FinePix S8000fd/S8100fd (for AA users)
and
b) Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 (for LiOH users)

Though I would prefer to use something closer to a Panasonic TZ5 since I already have 2 DSLRs.

I also have the Panasonic (Lumix) DMC TZ5. You will be pleased with it as it takes a beautiful photo. It has some terrific features.

The Canon I mentioned in an earlier post is for when we need to go very light weight. Its' photo is not nearly as good as the above Panasonic... but it's Horses for Courses.