I need your opinion on Canon PowerShot cameras  

Great choice! I've had a Canon Powershot camera for years now, and I absolutely love it! I would go to a store that has demo cameras out on display and look at the different models you're interested in. Hold them in your hands, get a feel for where everything is, take a few test shots. Are the features you use most often easy to access? Or do you have to go through several menus before you can get the camera to do what you want? Additionally, you may want to do some research online. Do a search for a website with side by side comparisons of different Canon Powershot models. That's an easy way to see what the different cameras offer and how they differ from each other. Good luck in selecting a camera!

ok, you already decided that you like canon cameras so that's solved. now you only have to research it only which camera has the features you mention. use the internet to search the model that you want. either go to google, amazon and other merchant out there. they will give you the specifications to your camera.

The power shot is a great choice except for the low light capture. I have the powershot A530 and love it. All the PS A series uses AA batteries(rechargable)and the SD card. I also have the Canon Powershot S5 with Immiage Stablization and like ti and have used it to take action shots with good results. With your concern for price the Canon Powershot A series 500, 600, or 700 might be the way for you to go. the price range is $120 to about $300. The Powershot S series starts around $200 for the S3 and goes up to $599 for the S5. The S series is a more versatal and gives you better photos but I would say the PS A series is your best value.