Is this an ok camera?

no way, this is a very low quality camera, it may be branded hitachi, but its actually a vivitar. when you shop for a camera, dont just look for megapixel,but also for lens quality, gl lens is superior to plastic lens, and gl lenses from known lens manufacturers like zeizz or nikon, will be superior to no brand lenses. consider a low end Nikon l11 instead, its close to the price and the quality is much better.