good entry level camera

After trying out my housemate's R707, the 5.1MP version of this camera, I was really impressed by the both the photo and A/V quality of this camera. It didn't have as much of a lag as most other cameras I've used (but it did have one). Without knowing how to use it, I didn't have a difficult time figuring out the controls and using some of the more advanced features. So, I bought the less expensive R607 version which has a good Pentax lens and mostly all the same features as the more expensive 5.1MP version. I paid CDN$200 for a new one from FutureShop. It has quite a lot of features to make taking pictures in almost any setting come out brilliant. If you leave the camera on auto then you're not going to be happy with all your pics (if you leave any camera on auto, you're not going to be happy with all the pics - the settings are there for a reason) So far this camera turns out great shots for its price. However, the included HP battery is pathetic. I bought a non-HP extra battery off Ebay and it lasts literally about 10x longer.