1) Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7K Digital Camera
The coolest thing about this camera is it boasts a 12x optical zoom, an impressive find under $300. It also features 6 megapixels, and delivers wonderful enlargments. While this is no digital SLR, enthusiasts will appreciate many of the advanced features like a fast response time, image stabilization and a 2.5-inch LCD that you can brighten with the push of a button. This is an exceptional value for someone seeking quality at a decent price.

2) Canon Powershot A630 Digital Camera
You get 8 megapixels in the under-$300 category, which is impressive enough. This camera also features an adjustable, flip-out LCD screen with a night view display, as well as a 4x optical zoom. It also includes 21 shooting modes, and shoots at 800 ISO.

3) Nikon Coolpix S4 Digital Camera
This Nikon is an all-around great camera in this pricerange. You get 6.3 megapixels, and a powerful 10x optical zoom. This camera has a fun swivel design for getting those odd shots. This also features face priority auto-focus for getting portraits right, as well as 16 scene modes. Better yet, four of the scene modes include a "scene assist" to help photographers take better pictures.