As I have come to learn, there are more important factors than number of megapixels and zoom capability of lens.
In my case, I have to be carefull how I take pictures. The camera only has average type metering- IE it takes a reading of the average light level in deciding exposure. If the backround is brighter than the subject, or if there is a bright component in the field of vision then the reading will be thrown off and the actual subject will be underexposed.
Also, a 3x optical zoom is not enough.
So- using what I have learned- look for at least 5x if not 8-10x optical zoom. Look for a "fast" lens f2.8 or lower number. Most digicam lens are f3.5 or 5.6. This figure refers to the amount of light a lens allows in. Lower is better and is an indicator of quality of the lens.
Investigate the type of metering. Look for one that has at least center metering- meaning that the object in the center box/portion etc of the viewfinder generates the reading.
One that takes generiac AA size batteries. Many manufacturers try to lock in the purchaser to an obscure battery size, which coincidentally are only available from a few vendors. Mine takes AA and I use re-chargeables.
Sorry for the dissertation-
Best,
Ross