Nikon 1 ?

[Izzy]

Im gonna get mama a new camera for Christmas and have been fludded with tv commercials of this camera. Any good? Could I do better with another brand or model? Ill probably sneak it away for a hunt from time to time but for the most part its a family camera, sporting events, day trips, vacations and the like.

                   Thanks,Izzy

[rnickl]

I've been shooting Nikon for almost 20 years and I think the 1 series is their first flop.  I feel it's well over priced and the sensor is too small so it will have a handicap if you want to shoot wide angles.

I was looking at a mirrorless system I would most likely go with Olympus with the 4/3rd size sensor.  The PL3 gets great reviews and more reasonable price.
Panasonic has a nice 4/3rd lineup as well.

[centaur]

Another vote for the 4/3 system. I have a Panasonic G2 that is a great camera, and the 4/3 format is really great. Olympus 4/3 cameras are very nice, as well. I have an Olympus lens for my Panasonic that is reasonable and very good quality.
If you are wanting more of a point and shoot, there are lots of them out there that will do what the Nikon 1 will at considerably less cost.

[TaterHill Archer]

Izzy,
I have 2 digital SLR cameras. I have a Nikon D40 and a Nikon D3100 I use them for clinical photography.  I like SLR cameras and the 4/3 system.  That being said, the Nikon1 V1 is next on my list.  It has an extremely fast focus and takes great photos.  It's not a high end professional camera, but it is a great camera.  Google Steve Huff and look at his review of the Nikon V1.

If you want to go a step up, go with the Olympus EP-3. Maybe the best micro 4/3 out right now.  Fuji has one coming that may set the bar higher, but have to see it first.

[waknstak IL]

The D3100 would be great for what you want to do. And there are  affordable lenses out there for it.