Looking for one that I could get for less than $150. With a decent zoom. Easy to use. I have no idea where to start to look in terms of brands or models.

Any recommendations?

Canon. Canon. Canon.

In that price range, try the Canon PowerShot SD770 IS. http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras ... =mncol;lst

Top digital cameras (budget) as per CNET: http://reviews.cnet.com/best-budget-cam ... contentNav

I bought three of these $89 Samsung's for my kids.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001283F60/?tag=imwan-20

They work like an absolute charm. Point and shoot, they focus well, the flash works well, the button to look at your pictures works well. It's convinced me to stick to point and shoot cheap cameras -- they've arrived.

The only negatives I have with it are

1. Not rechargeable -- cost cutting. It takes two AA's. I could use rechargeable batteries but I haven't.

2. The battery door is kind of cheap feeling plastic. I hope one of the kids doesn't break it.

I bought this for my wife this Christmas. I was able to get it from Brandsmart for $125 on Black Friday, but it looks like the price has gone above your range.

Still, best camera of it's type, IMO, and maybe you can find a good deal in your price range. Maybe a version or two older than this one is what you're looking for.

http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMC-TZ4 ... B0011Z6D86

http://www.dpreview.com/ is a good place for reviews and detailed information about cameras once you've narrowed down what you're looking for.

If you do much outdoor stuff you may consider getting a waterproof camera. I got a Pentax Optio W20 a couple of years ago because I didn't want to have to worry about it getting splashed or rained on. You can even take pictures with it underwater.

Rob, with the little one on the way, get a decent camera with rechargeable batteries and at least 3 times (optical) zoom. Most cameras have it now, but make sure you get video capability. Camcorders are great, but not as convenient as a pocket camera. Filming short snippets (in good quality) of your child will be treasured.

This is a great review site. I used it when I made camera purchases in the past.