Looks like I need a new camera for my fall hunts. I am backpacking, so size is a consideration. I'd like to stay under  $300 or so.  Anybody have any good recommendations?

Thanks,
G

I picked up a Panasonic Lumix LX7 and it is incredible. It has a super fast lens for low light situations. It is made for Leica but then they re-brand it for themselves and sell it cheaper. It also takes great video with auto focus and zoom.

Panasonic fz 200 is an incredible camera/lens.  With a 2.8 F stop from 28mm to 600mm in a Ziess lens.  Shots HD movies including slow motion.  BB turned me on to this camera and I cannot be happier.
John

You are gonna get alot of recommendations. As a pro photog for last 17 years I will add these tips for you to think about with your purchase choice.
1: with compact cameras price does not always mean better and cheesy features are just that....worthless cheesy features.
2: setting manipulation is vitality important. You need to be able to shoot in auto (if you still need auto), aperture mode (this let's you control the aperture and the camera matches the shutter speed....99% of outdoor daytime shots will be in this mode), exposure control ( this let's you shift the exposure brighter or darker and is super important for black bear pics, bright background pics, etc), and I like having flash exposure shift as well (this let's you control the light output for shots that need flash).
3:  video mode is great to have
4: has to run on aa or AAA batteries if possible that way easy to have spares and can run litiums for winter.
5. Has to have white balance adjustment.
6: a self timer and tripod socket.

Best compact camera for the money is the canon sx160....cost is 150 bucks and I promise you will be used pressed to get anything better without going over 400 or getting into DSLR cameras.
I have been using canon sx models since their sx120 model years ago and have about 5 sx cameras spread around in packs and around the house. Even as a pro with 40k worth of camera gear that canon sx goes with me everywhere.

Thanks to all for the replies they were very helpful.

LB, I appreciated the specifics you listed.
G

LB, in your post, are you referring to a point and shoot camera or a recorder?

DanielB89, a point and shoot digital camera. But most of them today shoot video as well.

oh ok, do you have a recommendation on a low priced video camera?  to use for filming the hunt itself?  

ever heard/used a canon sx40?  I bought my wife one for her anniversary and it seems to be pretty good, but i've not tried to film with it in low light scenarios yet..

DanielB89, The sx40 is a great camera, for hunting i like the sx160 better as its more compact and still a great full function camera.
I dont know enough about the new video cameras to give an opinion on them.

Lb, so do you film with the sx160 or just take snap shots?

i use it for both. mainly as a still shot camera, but i do shot video as well here and there. I buy it as a still shot camera but its nice to know you can do video if you want to. the video is good but if you are planing to actually video alot of stuff id buy a video camera as well as the sx160 for stills.

LB, what would be a camera worth buying but doesn't break the bank for filming?  

I already have the canon SX40 for picture taking and seeing as it was about 300, i'll have to use what I have! lol.  (poor man problems)

I was wondering if it would be ahigh enough quality recorder for me to record a hunt this year with it.

DanielB89, If you are just recording the hunts for your own use anything will work great. If you are going to try and sell the footage or make huiting videos you will need more. Again i dont knwo much about video anymore. Last time i was serious about video was when they actually recorder to tape. All the new high tech models and options i dont know anything about.

thanks LB, you have been a good help!  

Daniel

Casio Exilim EX-ZR100 Highspeed-Digitalkamera, 12 Megapixel, 12,5- times opt. Zoom, 3 inches  display, anti shake

This is a great little camera which wont  break the bank. It has all the options you could ask for, very easy to operate, lots of settings, astonishing  pictures and video's and small.

I can honestly recommend this camera! I bought a factor 10, 64 gb sd card with it, which operates fast enough and gives you enough memory for videos.

I just picked up a Cannon SX 160 this morning, based on LB's recommendation. Thanks for the advice.  I really don't know anything about these cameras so your comments are very much appreciated.

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Ron,
Hope your enjoying your new camera.
Sorry I haven't been on this threads in a while.
I made a podcast that will teach you a lot about your camera and how to use it.
Click the link in my signature line. The episode is called taking perfect trophy shots and photography.
It covers everything from beginner to semi advanced.

Thanks!  I will check it out from my home computer.

I just saw this post and just so happen to get a deal on a Canon SX 160 on clearance at Office Depot for $90. I feel really good about my purchase after reading this post and LB's comments.
The pictures are great and the video on this thing is good as well. I like the 16X Optical Zoom.
Thanks guys, Todd