One problem:
"something that i can get the same effects of depth of field, etc., as my canon eos--for the same price".
Digital cameras have a larger depth of field than your canon eos.
See this link:
http://www.dpreview.com/learn/?/Glossary/Optical/Depth_of_Field_01.htm
To get similar depth of field you would need a DSLR camera. Those start at $1,000.
Regarding 5 megapixels: For what you describe, 3 megapixels will suffice.
Need more information before recommending a camera:
Regarding "ease of use": Are you suggesting a point-and-shoot camera or something with manual override controls?
Regarding price: What price range?
...
hello,
I am thinking of finally getting into the 21st century and buying a digital still camera. I do some pro video here and there but for that the still pic resolution I can use is 720 x 540 dpi, so i assume a 3.1 mp camera will deliver that. needs to be tripod mountable. not much need for 8x10 glossies, so do I really need a 5+ megapixel camera? and any recommendation for a camera with a good lens, ease of use, etc.-- something that i can get the same effects of depth of field, etc., as my canon eos-- for the price? thanks - fj

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic