rogerl Loc: UK (Harrogate, North Yorkshire)

My daughter would like a bridge camera for photos in the school hall so main criterion is low light capability. She would also prefer lighter rather than heavier. The only camera shop in town has a pathetic range with nobody who can advise (!). Panasonic FZ200 has had good reviews on here over the past year or so. I'd value recommendations for her to explore (she appreciates that she has to handle it before making a final choice).

She also needs to replace her Nikon Coolpix P300 pocket camera; it takes brilliant, sharp photos but needs repair. I've suggested Panasonic TZ30/TZ35/TZ40 (I have TZ30 & love it). Again would appreciate recommendations for a brilliant picture quality pocket camera. She is looking to buy both a bridge & a replacement pocket.

Camerabuff Loc: Liverpool UK

Both of those cameras are very good. But for a bridge I would look at the canon sx50 far better in low light.

Fran Loc: Northeast, United States

The fx200 is great for low light shooting with its widest apperture at 2.8 even at full zoom. Much better for low light shooting than most other bridges. The image quality is also very good. I love mine!

Cdouthitt Loc: Traverse City, MI

Best low light bridge is the lx7. Has a f1.4 lens by Leica. I use one for work. It's not a super zoom. I never have to use a flash with it...but it does have one, along with a hot shoe.

Cdouthitt Loc: Traverse City, MI

Other option would be the xz-2. Has a 1.8 lens. This and the lx7 are $299 right now. The xz2 is on sale. Normally $500

Papa Joe Loc: Midwest U.S.

I've switched to a Canon SX-50 (bridge camera), and love it for low light and great zoom
You might check into Canon's P&S line. S95 etc. Someone posted here just a day or so ago they got a used S95 for $175.00. Great little camera and extremely sharp lens.

Jiminyclicket

I recently went through the bridge camera decision. The Panasonic FZ200 was a close second to what I bought. The Canon SX50 was also a high consideration, since my SLR is a Canon EOS 40D that I love. I finally took the advice of B&H photo which rated the Fuji HS50EXR in a head-to-head comparison. These three all are a bit on the large and heavy side which means your daughter might not go for them, but if she is really interested in learning photography than a good full size bridge camera might be a smart investment. Once she gets the hang of it she can step up to a full size slr. Otherwise I would one urge you to consider one of the many smaller point and shoots available. Panasonic, Canon, Nikon, Fuji and several other companies make good choices. Go for the largest sensor,fastest lens and longest zoom. Check em out at B&H or Adorama.