Canon G11Being a photography enthusiast and a gadget geek has its advantages. Simply put, I don't skimp out on gear because my photos and the photos I take for my clients are too precious.

However, not everyone can go out and afford a camera and lenses that equal to paying your mortgage for four months. Even so, there comes a time where the big gear is just too much to carry around. Believe me, I've done the Disney-type vacation with the pro gear and while the quality of the pictures are top notch, you're going to end up with a sore back even if you have comfortable traveling gear.

One of the questions I always get is what sort of camera should families invest in that are in the point and shoot category, won't break the bank, but take photos that are worthy of framing.

Here's the straight answer: the Canon GX (fill in X for one of any models from the 9, 10 or 11).