1) Kodak EasyShare V610 Dual Lens Digital Camera
You get great looks, with this black-and-chrome compact 6-megapixel camera. You get the innovative Kodak Retina Dual Lens technology, which provides it with 38-114 and 130-380 mm equivalent zoom capabilities (which features a 10x optical zoom). It also shoots VGA-quality movies, has 19 scene modes and has built-in Bluetooth wireless technology. The generous 2.8-inch LCD screen aids in reviewing shots. At less than an inch thick, this is a lot of camera in a small package.

2) Olympus Stylus 1000 Digital Camera
This 10-megapixel camera features some unique and interesting extras, such as its weatherproof design that can handle rain, wind and temperature extremes. This camera will allow for some large prints, and you can choose between 11 resolution modes. Photographers can pick from 20 scene modes, and can shoot up to 3.6 frames per second.

3) Pentax *ist DS Digital SLR Camera
You will hardly find many digital SLRs in this price range. While you will still need to budget for a lens (unless you already have one), you get the body for under $400. This 6.1-megapixel budget SLR camera features 11-point auto-focus, shoots in RAW format, has manual focus, includes ISO ranging up to 3,200 and features manual exposure.