I would say it depends alot on what you want to shoot. Most comments so far are rather negative and I can understand that view somewhat. But lets take a look closer at what you are asking. If you have never been into underwater photgraphy then maybe its worth a look at getting a cheap underwater camera to see if you actually want to take photos underwater in the first place without spending a ton of money. Its alwas easy to spend other peoples money so everyone telling you to get this or that camera and spend $500 - $5000+ is very easy to do. What they can't tell you is that you would like taking pics underwater (regardless of the camera) and here is the aweful truth...even those expensive underater cameras and housing can and will flood. Its not a question of if, but when. Also its more stuff to lugg around (delicate stuff infact). So before you go out and spend a lot on a great underwater camera setup it may not be a bad idea to get a cheap camera and see what you l;ike and dislike about taking pics underwater. You won't have spent a fortune and if you truely enjoy taking pics underwater you can look at what is weak about the cheap camera and make a more informed choice on your next camera. I started out with a cheap camera (film based) and upgraded as I saw the need.
