There seem to be some photography experts on this forum. I'm thinking about getting a camera. Haven't used one since my Dad's Minolta over 15 years ago. Here are my requirements and ideas. Let me know what you think.

1) $350 or so the max, hopefully lower.
2) Beginner's camera.
3) Compact.
4) Better quality than a cellphone or iphone—I own neither.
5) Easy to use.
6) I can't read w/out glasses, if this matters.
7) Room to grow? Basic w/out being overly restrictive.
8) Outdoor/indoor pics.
9) Video, Wifi, other excessive features not needed.
10 Photos of family and friends, houses, local places, vacation.

I read that Canons are reliable and easiest to use.

With a digital camera, I know I can transfer them to my Mac. But can I get photos printed by means other than my inkjet printer? Silly question, I know. Remember those drive-through Kodak stands?

Options from what I've read: point-and-shoot, bridge, mirrorless, instant(!).

Thanks for any suggestions you can make. I will likely get a point and shoot, but if I can get better quality for a little more money, I would go that route.

Canon S110
This one.

I used the S95 until I had the funds to go for the Sony RX100 III. It is a very good camera, both as full auto point-and-shoot and with full manual controls, too.

If you need a longer lens, Panasonic makes a similar sized one with a Leica lens - just not as compact.

The Canon is a shirt pocket size. And they say: the best camera is the one you have with you. I think that's why camera phones have been so successful.

Check out Digital Photography Review. They are pretty reliable and forthcoming in their reviews and even have guides to help you choose the best camera for your use. I think you will find your toughest requirement is going to be "room to grow" in your price range. In today's digital camera world growth usually involves a new body and/or new lenses. In your price range new lenses are not an option.

Yes, you can get prints by means other than your printer. Transfer the photos to a CD and places like Costco, some drugstores and camera shops can provide you with prints. Some of these places may even be able to work with the camera's memory card, if you are willing to part with it.

I like cameras with high zoom but I do a lot of wildlife photography. I've been using the Canon Powershot series, my most recent was a Powershot S3IS, which for a several-year-old camera strangely has gone UP in price. (I got mine for $300) I have since gotten a newer Nikon on a Woot deal, I don't have it with me but it's similar to

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1029619-REG/nikon_26464_coolpix_p530_digital_camera.html

The price in cart is $270

I'm not a professional, (I like to call myself a "high-end amateur") so I don't know all the finer details but this camera takes good pictures, works well, and I love the optical zoom. I miss being able to use AA batteries, but this thing seems to go FOREVER on its battery pack.

You also can often upload images to a retailer's web site and then pick up prints shortly thereafter at a local store location.

Thanks for all the replies.

What's a Woot deal?

The Nikon is surprisingly inexpensive, but I need something compact for now.

Woot: Daily Deals...

Here's another very useful site for camera information and reviews http://www.cameralabs.com

I've had good luck with the Canon Powershot series, they have some slim ones as well. I've owned the Powershot and Powershot S2 which are in the same form factor as this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-Digital-Wide-Angle-Recording/dp/B00AWYN0BU