Actually, I own a CoolPix 2500, and I have none of the problem that TheBigCheese have.
1. I don't see how using a viewfinder make you hold more steady
2. what are the chances where brigh sun is behind you and at the exact angle where it reflect off the LCD? You can adjust the swivel camera so it's at a different angle. Also, you can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.
3. Battery life is great! If you looked at any of the reviews, you'll see that the battery will last very long. I used it for a 3 day trip in Mexico, and I only had to recharge the battery once, and I was taking pictures, viewing them, taking motion pictures ALL THE TIME!
4. having a digital camera means you can quickly review the pictures you just took, so you'll be using the LCD to review the pictures anyway, so leave your reading glasses on to take picture, and then review the picture!
anyway, I love my Coolpix2500. It's not a professional camera at all, but it goes into my pants pockets without a case
and it's stylish looking to carry around, and it works well!