Wassup with this?

This is from the second roll of film I've shot in this camera. All the

pictures didn't return like this, just a few. Some were evening shots,

some (including this one) were daytime shots. Any idea about what's

causing this?

TIA

It's me again, Margaret!

After studying this picture, I think I may have a guess as to what the problem is. This slash is in the same direction as the gap in the lens cover. Apparently, the blades don't open quick enough to clear the way. Is this a common problem of P&S cameras, or signs of a major problem?