Panasonic HVX 200

Of all the video cameras available under $10,000.00 this is the top of the heap. With variable frame rates and the ability to shoot it like a film camera the image quality is outstanding. This camera also shoots a number of formats like DVC Pro and DVC Pro 50 so it is acceptable by all the broadcast and cable outlets. The camera also shoots in native HD, the real deal, not HDV so you get all the information in every frame and pixelation is drastically reduced while large screen projection is seamless.

The down side is that all the controls are not accessible when shooting underwater which means you have to set up for a specific type of shoot before you dive and that is what you get. This is restrictive but not a severe as it may seem but it would be great to have shutter speed control and the ability to adjust frame rates while shooting at any time... I have often needed this on the fly and it just isn't going to happen so your shooting style has to be modified to account for this.

The camera is also a work horse and has never had a moments trouble in any environment from the extreme heat of South East Asia to the Arctic where the water temps are 28 - 29 degrees F. The P2 technology is expensive to purchase but well worth the time and trouble when every shot is nearly guaranteed and the cards seem to last forever...

Lastly, this camera produces an image that makes my old Sony SD rig seem out of focus in comparison and the rich film-like quality images are just tops for it's class... Great camera!