Casio's latest camera is fairly straightforward to use and is packed with features, including manual modes and a large selection of programmed scene modes, or Best Shot modes.

Selecting Best Shot mode presents you with a choice of thumbnail images representing various types of photograph, enabling you to quickly select the one most appropriate for your picture. A dedicated button means these modes are always at your fingertips without having to use the camera's menu system.

Image stabilisation is supported, which works well in both still and H.264 video modes and can be combined with motion detection-based ISO boosting to help capture fast-moving subjects.

The must-have facial detection function is supplemented by a Family First mode, which enables you to pre-program the camera with your family's faces. The camera then gives your family priority over others when facial detection is enabled.

The EX-Z1200 employs a Quick Shutter mode in which the focus indicator will initially show up in red. This enables you to take photos more quickly but risks out-of-focus images if you take the picture before the focus has locked and the indicator has turned green.

Image quality is reasonably good, although 12 megapixels are too many. File sizes are huge at around 7.8MB for a full-quality JPEG and the step up from 10 megapixels isn't particularly noticeable. But those who edit photos on a PC will find they stand up to manipulation and can produce very pleasing results.

The camera comes with a rechargeable Li-Ion battery and a USB cable for easy charging and file transfer to a PC. A basic printed reference guide is in the box, but full documentation is on CD, meaning you canít easily take the manual with you.