Whats a good P&S that does HD Video

[Scuba-junky]

I'd like to get into UW video but don't really want to carry a big Camcorder on vacations. My thought was to get a decent point and shoot camera that can also shoot HD video at 30 fps minimum. Since I would also use the camera on land, I would like one that has a good zoom lense. Close up performance would also be a plus. There are a few DSLRs that can do this but I'd like to get a P&S if possible.

Is there a good Point and Shoot camera out there that has most or all of the following:

1) HD Video 720 or 1080p 30fps minimum
2) Manual Modes including WB control
3) Good zoom 10x?
4) Fairly good low light performance
5) Housing available for it
6) Close up performance

 

[rab1412000]

sound like you need a panasonic zs3
its got everything you mentioned except manual apperture

 

[H2O Photo Pros]

If you are looking for a good camera that shoots HD video, then DSLR would be the way to go, especially if you want to use it underwater. Do you think you will be shooting more stills or more video? The Canon HF S10/S11 are GREAT camcorders, perform excellent underwater and also take 6mp stills that are pretty good. The camera also has good zoom capability.

 

[rrweather]

I have the Canon SX1 IS. I purchased it in Thailand while I was there as they were not available in the states. I think it is a great camera. I also purchased the ikelite housing for it. I don't know how the video compares to other cameras but it looks good enough for me on my 50in TV. There is no filter available from ikelite for that housing. I found a filter adapter that attaches to the hood mount on the end of the lens. You put the adapter on and then you can use ordinary filters. I bought a red filter for it and just put it on before putting the camera in the housing. The only disadvantage to this is the filter is on to stay until you finish the dive. That hasn't been a problem for me yet. Based on my skill (or lack there of) being stuck with the red filter is the least of my worries. The other disadvantage is the price of the housing is higher than the camera. I can try uploading some of my videos. Unfortunately, my best video is too big of a file to upload to any site I know if. I can try splitting it into two files.

The nice thing about the camera is it is fairly small, which makes it easy to travel with. Probably the best feature besides the video is the 25x optical zoom on it. I'm sure the quality suffers a little for this much zoom but for traveling, it is awesome. This camera is worth a look.