While some recent cameras have improved response times and may be able to take a rapid-fire burst, there is still a definite lag on most digital cameras between the time you push the button and the time the camera's shutter fires. Then there is a further delay while the image is recorded. The firing delay is longer still when you use red eye reducing flash. What happens with red eye reduction is that the flash fires twice with a delay between the two flashes just long enough to allow the pupil of the subject's eye to contract. To avoid problems, hold the camera steady and, if necessary, warn the subject that the flash will fire twice. If possible use a tripod.

When shopping for a new camera, take a few shots with the models that interest you. Which has the best response rate from the time you turn the camera on to the time it has taken the picture? Which takes the shortest time to fire the shutter when you press the button? If the delay is excessive, you may want to try another make of camera, such as Ricoh, which claims extremely fast response.