I have a bias towards Sony digital cameras (I think you either hate them or love them due to the memory stick thing). I don't know how "professional" these two cameras I have are considered. Probably they'd be considered high end amateur cameras, or at least the first one would. But they do the trick.

My main camera is a Sony DSC-H5, which is 7mp (I think), and has a 12x zoom. It does wonderful photos. It's been one-upped already by a model that has a 15x zoom and a special night feature. This camera's nearly a pound in weight and a bit bulky, so it's a pain at times to carry. But it's worth it.

This is an example of an H5 shot I took when a friend visited. This pic shows off the zoom well and the quality of the camera:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alohaor...7603956923736/

I also have a DSC-H3, which is 8mp and has a 10x zoom. It's light and small and a little more awkward settings wise, but it's as good as the H5 quality wise. Still, I think I'm used to the heavier feeling of the H5, and I prefer that. The H3 is really a more "on the go" camera for those who want a good zoom in a light weight model.

This is with the H3 flash on, and is not a travel related photo!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alohaor...7603358549720/