What high end point and shoot did you have? Thanks.
I don't know about him, but the Canon G10 is GREAT if you have about $500 to spend on it. Also is the
Canon SX10. This one includes the basic accessory set that will help you get a nice start and good grip on the photographic concept. Also is the Canon
SX110 IS, this is a great camera with advanced features, and a great price, even with the deluxe accessory set. Here is the other one I recommend, the
Nikon P80. If you do not like (or cannot afford any of these) I suggest the basic guidelines below for point and shoot cameras:
Model: Stick with Nikon or Canon. They will give you the best products and if you ever upgrade to a Nikon or Canon DSLR, the controls will be very similar just in a 10 ten fold manner.
Megapixels: Are not important. Just stick with something over 4 MP, so you can properly crop or resize without worrying about pixelation.
Size: Try them out in your hand, see which one feels best in your MANLY hands.
Frame rates: The more the better, if you are shooting things like sports you will need more frame rates. If just general shooting, don't worry about it.
Audio and Video Recording: Whatever. If needed.
Lens Type: Any Canon or Nikon camera will do great with lens performance.
Power type: AA size batteries can be bothersome and annoying to carry around, but it's fine if you don't mind the extra weight and such. The normal power packs won't be featherweight, but they will hold more power, therefore last longer and give you more shots. Charging may be an issue. But it's ok if you don't mind that.
Built in flash: I personally hate flash. But you may differ in opinion.
Live View: All point and shoot's support this feature.
Shooting modes: JPEG and RAW are standard on most high end point and shoots, but both will do justice.