I love my S1, capable of crisp 640x480 30fps with usable 10x zoom. As to why have a camera with video, it really helps reduce the weight considerably when traveling. I'm not a filmmaker nor do I have any intention to be one. I just want to videorecord certain spots (i.e. grand canyon, beaches) that I've gone to. Not long sequences because those get boring, just something I can archive and watch at home years later. Totally priceless.