Here’s two HP camera reviews in one. The M517 features 5.2 megapixels and 3x optical zoom, while the R817 has 5.1 megapixels and 5x optical zoom, and both enjoy a very user-friendly interface.

ByteSector.com have reviewed these two digicams together and
DCResource just posted a review of the R817 and seem to like it well enough. I quote-

“I strongly recommend either of these models for new users. Either camera makes a great first digital camera and is very user friendly. The M517 will allow you to progress to a fairly advanced level, if you so choose. If you already have an artsy touch, you should consider the R817, although it is more expensive. However, if you are considering taking up digital photography, look up a few books or go to a specialty shop and speak to a consultant; it is very likely that you can get a more powerful, albeit not as intuitive, camera for the same price.”

Features:
* 5.1 effective Megapixel CCD
* F2.8-4.7, 5X optical zoom Pentax lens, equivalent to 36 - 180 mm
* 2.0″ LCD display
* Compact stainless steel body
* Full manual controls (finally)
* Loads of cool features: Adaptive Lighting (now with a bracketing feature), Image Advice (suggests ways to improve your photos), Instant Share (for easy e-mailing or printing of your photos), in-camera redeye removal, and new in-camera panorama stitching
* Can record videos at 640 x 480 (30 fps) with sound until memory is full
* 32MB onboard memory + SD/MMC card slot
* AF-assist lamp
* USB 2.0 support
* Uses proprietary lithium-ion battery
* PictBridge-enabled

Click here to read the full HP Photosmart M517 & R817 review.