This is true, but there are some point and shoot cams out there that take GREAT pictures. I’m not suggesting he buy a $79 special on woot.com. I am suggesting a higher end “point and shoot”. They’re easier to use, less bulky and take good pictures.
It’s $329, and probably produces phenomenal pictures that will be easy to capture. It’s got a lot of manual setting that WILL allow you to stretch your legs on creativity. The f/1.8 lens will be super fast and work well in low-light no flash situations. It takes large 12mp photos. has decent zoom ability. oh, and it has full HD video.
If you want to take good pictures without learning how to use a camera, get a lower end Nikon DSLR. I wouldn’t recommend the Canon DSLR’s until you get into the pro range. They are undoubtedly harder to use, and generally result in worse pictures in full auto.
For new, id go Nikon D3100… About $500 on sale, usually can do about $540 for the kit with the 18-55, and bag. Full auto will take OK pictures in bright lighting, nothing will really take good images in low light unless it has seriously hot glass, a good user, or is a D3S.
The D3100 is quite a bit better than a D40. VASTLY superior high ISO performance, ISO 3200 images are OK, and it will go up to 12,800 which is useful in video. Also, it does record video and has somewhat useable autofocus in video.