For action photography, the Canon S3 IS score higher than the Fujifilm S6000fd because of its larger reach and brighter lens (the usable aperture is wider) at maximum zoom. It has an image-stabilized lens, which compensates for camera shake while permitting horizontal panning in “Panning Mode,” and good continuous shooting performance (2.1 shots/sec till the card fills up). The zoom’s reach can further be extended by using the optional tele-converter lens.

On the other hand, the Fujifilm S6000fd has about a 50% larger sensor size (Sensor Type 1/1.7”) than other 6-7 megapixel cameras in its class (e.g. Panasonic DMC-FZ8 and Canon S3 IS with Sensor Type 1/2.5”). With this model, Fujifilm has also resisted the temptation to cram more and more pixels onto such tiny sensors. This limits the noise (graininess) at high ISO settings. The camera has class-leading high ISO performance and has good speed for freezing those short-lived expressions of the babies. The sharp lens captures minute details. It rivals the resolution of 7 megapixel cameras because of its sharp lens and Super-CCD Sensor.

Overall, the Fujifilm S6000fd wins here because of its class-leading high ISO performance (useful for photographing babies without flash), while also having fast performance and good zoom (10.7x) with wide angle (good for action & landscape photography). The Fujifilm S6000fd is my Top Pick.