Before you know it, the holidays will be here. There’ll be plenty of memories you’ll want to capture. Fortunately, you don’t need to spend a fortune on a new camera. These days, you get a lot of camera for $200 to $300.

For years, manufacturers touted megapixels. Megapixels were equated with camera quality; more was considered better. What megapixels really means is image size. With more megapixels, you can make bigger enlargements.

Many cameras in the $200 to $300 range boast 10-megapixel or larger sensors. That’s all you probably need. You’ll get excellent 8x10-inch prints. But, you should even get quality 13x19-inch enlargements.

Instead of megapixels, look for features that will improve your photos. Optical image stabilization is a must. You’ll get better low-light and telephoto pictures.

Casual photographers will want plenty of scene modes. Scene modes automatically optimize the camera’s settings for the situation. For example, look for portrait, sports, macro and landscape modes.

Enthusiasts will want manual controls. You can specify the settings you want. You’ll have fun experimenting with your photography.

Here are four great cameras in the $200 to $300 range: