underwater camera with good video recorder

[heehee62]

I'm going to be getting my scuba license soon and want a digital camera that can do the following for me:

1. record videos. My top priority. The videos don't have to last long (maybe 5 min each) but I want them to be of the highest quality possible.

2. fast shutter speed. My current olympus camera has way too long a delay between pushing the button and actual taking of picture

3. waterproof to intermediate scuba diving levels. The camera itself doesn't have to be waterproof on its own. I'm open to cases or any other methods of being able to take pictures underwater.

4. Have good underwater color quality. If there are cameras that can get rid of that washed out blue look, that'd be great.

5. Not break down on me in less than 3 years.

6. Be able to zoom.

Any suggestions. I was hoping for one suggestion in the under $1000 range and one at professional quality regardless of cost option. I'd then compare the specs and decide whether the extra dollars were worth the benefits.

Thanks.

[Andy Stanton]

The Panasonic TS series (TS1 and newer TS2) are waterproof, take very good images and excellent HD movies.

[heehee62]

Thanks. I'll check them out.

[KevlarCoated]

The TS2 is only rated to be water proof to 10m, for scuba diving your likely to want at least 18m and maybe as much as 40m which means you will need a water proof enclosure. Cameras and water proof enclosures start getting expensive, many enclosures cost more than the camera.

There is some good reviews on cameras with enclosures here
Underwater Camera Articles: Best Underwater Point & Shoot Cameras for 2010