Expert: John Oliverio - 5/3/2004

Question
Hi,
I currently have a Minolta Dimage X, but I'm thinking about getting a better digital camera, although not so good thats its horribly expensive. I want to be able to take more "action" pictures, the camera I have now gets blurry pictures if the subject is moving.
I don't want there to be a long time between pushing the button and having the picture taken, or between pushing the "on" button and being able to take a picture.
I would like an optical zoom.
The camera should be small enough to be able to be put in a pocket. Thats one of the things I like about my current camera- I can always have it with me.

Are there any cameras you know of that fit in with my requirements? Or do you know what the things would be called? I've tried looking at dpreview.com, but I don't know what they mean with many of the words so it makes it kind of hard to see if what I want is what it says...

Thanks,
Karen

Answer
Karen,

The problems you are faceing are "shutter lag" and slow start-up.  Unfortunately, you will not find a camera that is any good at action photography that also fits into your pocket.  Also, cameras that are really good at action generally more expensive.  

John