Here are a few links to help you with Depth of Field on your Point and Shoot Cameras:
http://digitalphotographyblogs.com/2006/08/10/point-shoot-depth-of-field-part-i/
http://digitalphotographyblogs.com/2006/08/11/point-shoot-depth-of-field-part-ii/
http://www.digicamhelp.com/taking-photos/advanced-techniques/creative-control/
(this also has some information on shutter speed control)
