Foto Folks Please Weigh In

So it’s time to replace my five year old digital camera that has reached its end.  Taking multiple shots just in hopes of getting one in focus isn’t productive nor my idea of fun.  However, it’s really hard to decide what to get.  I’ve read countless reviews but in the end I’m still very hesitant.  I’d feel much more confident in my decision if the reviews and/or recommendations were from people I actually knew in some manner of speaking.  With that in mind, I’m hoping that many of you that are foto extraordinaires might take a moment to lend your own personal recommendations.

Here are the guidelines I’ve been using when doing my search in order of importance.  I realize maybe I have a long list of desires but I’ve decided I’m ready to move beyond a simple point and shoot.

1. Shutter speed — I want to be able to take multiple shots quickly without great delays between shots.
2. Predetermined settings but with the potential to allow for manual choices if desired.
3. Auto focus option as well as manual.
4. Non-proprietary removable memory format with preference toward SD.
5. Good battery life using the LCD rather than viewfinder alone.
6. Durability — I take my camera hunting, camping, etc. and prefer it to be somewhat rugged.
7. Somewhat compact — I like that my old camera would easily be put in a cargo pocket so I could lug it with me hunting, etc.  The old camera’s dimensions are 1.5″x 5.5″x 2″.
8. Remote — I’d really love to have the ability to take photos with a remote.

And with that, I thank you in advance for your input!