Many women like the ultra-thin (less than 1 inch thick) cameras. But in this price range they produce a softer picture. The Konica-Minolta DiMAGE X31 is an example.
That takes you to the 1.5 inch thick cameras.
The Nikon Coolpix 3200 will produce the quality photos you want. And the shutter lag is less than most.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Nikon/nikon_cp3200.asp
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any suggestions for a compact, good quality digital camera that my wife can carry in her purse for the quick shot of the kids when needed. quality of the photo is very important as is the shutter lag time. (she doesn't want to miss those once in a lifetime shots!) Also would like to stay in the $200 range if possible.

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