Biting the camera bullet...

I think it's time.

I've been using my Kodak point & shoot for what seems like an eternity. Okay, really, it's only been about 4 years, but it seems like forever. It's an 8.0 MP with 3x Optical Zoom.

And it's been great. With a few exceptions:

1. It takes awful low-light shots. In fact, it takes pretty awful shots anytime unless you're outside in full sun. Grainy. Blurry. You name it, I've probably lost good picture opportunities to it.

2. The video quality is bad. I could take better quality videos with my iphone.

I've always said that I wanted to purchase a DSLR before I had kids. My mom's response? "Well, you better wait until you find out you're pregnant. Otherwise, it'll be outdated by then." Thanks, Mom.

With the amount of vacations that I'll be taking this summer, NYC especially (no, I don't mind being the tacky tourist there), I'd really like to capture some great pictures.

I don't have the $$ to spend too much - probably less than $700 after tax & shipping - but if I settle on a model that I'd like, I can shop around and find the best price. I know a bunch of you girlies have DSLRs, so please do tell which one you have & what you like/hate!

I have been looking at this model, an alternative to the traditional, bulky DSLR...

The Sony Alpha Nex Nex3A/B

I like that it's not as big & bulky in the body as a traditional DSLR, but does it have all of the same features/capabilities? Is this the direction that DSLRs are moving in? What I don't like is that the flash is not built in, and I would have to use a detachable. (Wally World carries it in red!) It's built for all Sony Series E &A (with an adaptor) lenses. 14.2 MP. It also has a tiltable LCD view screen. Negative reviews include crappy 16mm included lens; firmware problems; low battery life; and slim lens selection. Price: $499.00.

Next, there's the...

Kodak EasyShare Max Z990

12.0 MP 30X Zoom. Seems pretty user-friendly (hence, EasyShare?). Doesn't seem like an outstanding camera from the reviews. It does have a built-in flash. Price: $280.00. Paying for quality?

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2

12.0 MP. Includes 14-42mm lens. Touch screen & full control panel option. Has an Intelligent Auto (user friendly) option as well as manual controls. You can detect the part of an image you would like to focus on, which I find pretty neat. Price: $570.00. This seems like the best deal so far. It seems the most user friendly, but it still has all of the capabilities for an advance photographer. It also comes with photo editing software.

I'm out of time right now to do any more research, but I'd love to hear your opinions! Any other suggestions are also gladly welcomed! Bring on the reviews!