GOOD WITH FACES
For photographing family, friends, or a mob of dirtbags, the S12 is a beautifully simple solution. It boasts a 12-meg sensor, a sharp 3x zoom, and an advanced movie mode, but its best feature is a face-recognition function that detects as many as 15 unruly mugs and then quickly sets optimal focus and exposure. (Unfortunately, it can’t make all your models keep their eyes open.) The textured metal body feels rock-solid, easily slips into your pocket, and encompasses a package of excellent, albeit basic, features that would’ve run you $100 more last year. 12MP; pentax.com