Memory - Most point and shoot cameras now use the universal SD memory card, but a few like Sony and Olympus use their own proprietary cards. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, just make sure that they are going to cost the same and be readily available. Also, make sure any card readers you have built into your computer will accept the card.

Speed of Operation - Most cameras are pretty fast on the shutter, but a few of the less expensive models out there still have a cumbersome delay when you press the shutter button. Make sure you demo the camera you are looking at. See how fast it takes a photo at wide angle and telephoto. Also see how long it takes between shots and how long it takes for the flash to recharge. These little things will all add up to make your new camera fun or potentially frustrating to operate.

Zoom - Make sure you look at the amount of OPTICAL zoom the camera has before buying. Also pay attention to the amount of wide-angle. I love to take wide-angle photos and that's why I bought the camera I have. It has an equivalent 24mm wide-angle lens. This came at a sacrifice on the telephoto end of things, so you might want to get a camera with a longer telephoto. If you do, make sure the camera has some sort of image stabilization. Holding a small camera still while magnifying an image 20 times makes it difficult to get a sharp image.

With your new pocket-size camera in hand you can head into the holidays knowing that you will be ready to get the shot at any time and any moment.

Don't let those moments get away... Oh, and keep your finger on the button!