Before you know it, the holidays will be here. There'll be plenty of memories you'll want to capture. Fortunately, you don't need to spend a fortune on a new camera. These days, you get a lot of camera for $200 to $300.

For years, manufacturers touted megapixels. Mega-pixels were equated with camera quality; more was considered better. What megapixels really means is image size. With more megapixels, you can make bigger enlargements.

Many cameras in the $200 to $300 range boast 10-megapixel or larger sensors. That's all you probably need. You'll get excellent 8-by-10 inch prints. But, you should even get quality 13-by-19 inch enlargements.

Instead of megapixels, look for features that will improve your photos. Optical image stabilization is a must. You'll get better low-light and telephoto pictures.

Casual photographers will want plenty of scene modes. Scene modes automatically optimize the camera's settings for the situation. For example, look for portrait, sports, macro and landscape modes.

Enthusiasts will want manual controls. You can specify the settings you want. You'll have fun experimenting with your photography.

Here are four great cameras in the $200 to $300 range:

PANASONIC LUMIX ZR1

Panasonic's Lumix ZR1 ($280) is a 12-megapixel compact camera. The 8x zoom lets you get close to distant subjects. It also has a 2.7-inch LCD screen but is still small enough to slip in your pocket.

The ZR1 offers optical image stabilization. And, there are plenty of scene modes. There's even Intelligent Auto (iA) Mode. It automatically detects the best settings for any situation.

The ZR1 shoots HD (720p) video to an SD card. And there's even a special travel mode. It organizes slide shows based on when and where photos were taken.

This camera is ideal for casual shooters. But more advanced photographers will miss manual controls.

CANON POWERSHOT SX120 IS

Canon's PowerShot SX120 IS ($250) is heavier and bulkier than the ZR1. But, this 10-megapixel shooter features a 10x zoom and a 3-inch display.

You get plenty of scene modes. The Easy Mode optimizes settings for you. Or set controls manually. This versatility makes it ideal for both beginners and enthusiasts.

There's optical image stabilization and motion detection to help eliminate blur. And face detection makes sure you get perfect skin tones.

The SX120 IS records video in standard definition. Clips can be up to one hour long or 4 gigabytes.

SAMSUNG TL220

The Samsung TL220 ($300) is a 12-megapixel compact camera. It features a 5x zoom lens.

The TL220's real draw is the display. Scroll through menus and photos on the 3-inch rear touch screen.

There's also a 1.5-inch front-mounted display. You can check the composition of your photo — and still be in the picture. Or display included animation to make a child smile.

You'll also get image stabilization and a bevy of scene modes. Included is Smart Auto for optimizing the settings in any situation. There's also HD (720p) video recording.

Enthusiasts will prefer a camera with more manual options.

SONY CYBER-SHOT H20

The Sony Cyber-shot H20 ($280) is a 10-megapixel high-zoom. It has a 10x zoom lens. Compose and review your shots on the 3-inch display.

Optical image stabilization will eliminate blurred photos. And the H20 has plenty of modes.

The Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode automatically senses the conditions and optimizes the settings. Easy Shooting Mode makes it easy for beginners to use the camera. Or use manual mode to specify your settings.

Face detection optimizes settings for up to eight faces. Smile Shutter snaps a photo when the subject smiles. There's even the Anti-blink function that will help you capture shots without blinking or squinting.

The H20 will capture high-definition (720p) video with stereo audio.

Reach Kim Komando at gnstech@gns.gannett.com.