GTO, go to
http://www.dcresource.com and pick the camera you want to research from the dropdown list. On the next page, click on the 'gallery' hyperlink. You'll see photos taken with the camera being discussed. I strongly believe that to choose a camera, you have to see the pic with YOUR eyes; (very much like buying speakers - you need to hear the music with YOUR ears). A friends view may be different from your taste, as with an expert or critic.
My personal opinion: If we're talking brands, get a Canon or a Nikon. Sony is very good, but cameras are not what they do best. My sister owns the Canon G3 (older G5) and I own the S50. They're both awesome cameras, but the G5 has an edge in that it has an accessory shoe for an external flash and a bayonet mount for lens (if you ever need one). The add-on flash is extremely important for indoor pics and poor lightling, as I experienced at Jacob Javits'. A small hitch with the two Canons - they use proprietary batteries that are expensive, but it can be overcome.
Let us know what you decide. Good luck !