Non DSLR Camera Recommendations/Things to Look For When Purchasing

So I apologize if this has been covered in the DSLR thread but i only did some minor searching and didn't see much relating to cameras that were non DSLRs. I know there are a lot of avid photogs on this blog and was wondering if anyone had recommendations for good cameras of the point and shoot variety, but that are higher end. Hoping there are people out there like me... I like having a camera and taking photos. I'm interested in some of these cmaeras that I've read about that have some effects built in, or that take good enough pictures that I could screw around with a photoshop and see if it takes.

So, I've noticed 3 cameras so far that seem pretty good. The Nikon S9100, Nikon S8200, and the Sony Cyber Shot DSCHX9V/B. I was leaning towards the Nikon initially but now I'm leaning Sony as I've read some better reviews of that camera. Does anyone know of these 3 are good? Are there any others in this price range/style that are comparable?

Also, I'd be curious to know what are some things to look for (generally speaking) when purchasing a camera. I know megapixels are not the be all end all. But I've read lots about exposure rates, shutter speeds, etc.

Any and all help is greatly appreciated!

I recently purchased the Nikon Coolpix L120 which is listed as a super zoom. It offers much of the flexibility of the DSLR, but you can also just stick with quto mode for point and shoot. I wanted something that I could take anywhere, without having to carry a bunch of lenses. I have no complaints at all. It takes great shots, and moving to manual mode, I can shoot pictures from the back row of 305 and get a very decent picture at Center Ice. An absolute great camera at under $250. I'll still invest in A DSLR camera down the line, but this one handles almost everything I need or want.

Go to a real camera store, rather than a big box store, and be sure to check out Canon's G series (I think the G12 is the one, now). Great cameras with all sorts of features, some of which are very similar to the SLRs.

If they still make the Canon Elph, it is always a great one to have. Small and sharp.

Nice. Thank you all for the input. Going to check out a camera store today. I had seen that G12 at Best Buy and looked nice so will definitely investigate that one more.

I've always enjoyed the Powershot series, good solid cameras. But in all honesty, it comes down to the controls, ease of use, and features you may want. Almost every name brand camera on the market in a Point n Shoot is going to be good.

I have a Nikon D90 and a Nikon S6000 Cool Pix. Obviously the D90 and the $1,100 is more than it sounds like you need. I am in love with my D90. However.....I'm not in love with the Cool Pix. I am looking to replace it. It just wasn't as durable as I had hoped. Many many problems. I used to have a Sony and loved it. When I went to the Cool Pix, I was looking for more resolution then my old Sony. I will definitaely be looking at the Sony for my small camera replacement.

I do construction inspections, so I do tend to stick my small camera in places it shouldn't go....in plumbing, utility trenches, etc. So I am still pretty much a Nikon fan if you are looking on going that way. I just would have hoped for a little more durability.