Hi Gotbags-10,
I purchased an Intova 6 mp camera with housing recently. Not the same model, but same brand. FYI- I do shoot a land digital Canon camera with multiple lenses and flashes. I wouldn't call my work professional, but I impress myself and enjoy the images I take.
I pretty much had the same goals as you; I wanted a camera to dink around with underwater. Since this was my first real experience with underwater photography (other than snorkling shots) and I didn't have the funds to buy the sophisticated equipment, I went the ultra-inexpensive route so when I did upgrade (if I upgrade) I wouldn't feel too badly about my starter camera cost.
I've taken my Intova into the local waterhole (quarry) twice to get familiar with it.
I thought that for the price (I paid about $140 for my model) the camera shot very well underwater. Of course, when you are shooting in a dark green murky environment, the photos will turn out with "interesting" colors, but overall, I was pleased.
It also handled camera shake pretty well. I was convinced my Gilboa photos of the fish would be a blur, but oddly, they are not.
Outside of the case, the 6mp works very nicely and will be a fun "amusement park" camera when I don't want to tote my large Canon around.
From what I've seen in the quarry, I think that the camera I chose will give me nice memory photos while diving in the tropics and will be a decent substitute for my canon at parties, picnics, and parks.
The Intova line seems solid within the underwater equipment market. They are not a Sea and Sea, but it is reflected in the price. If you don't know where you want to go with your photography, it is a decent starter camera with low starter costs in my opinion.
There are so many cameras, housing, and accessories, it is almost mind-blowing.
I hope this helps you. I know it is not about the model you are looking at.
