Quote Originally Posted by Offender90 View Post
First question - Are you actually planning to take photos underwater?

If the answer is no, then I wouldn't hesitate recommending the DSLR option with a decent protection case for storage / carting around. You'll find that with a bit of planning, there's no problem using it in mud / dirt / sand conditions for over 95% of all shots you'd probably end up taking with a waterproof camera.

I've had a Canon 20D for a few years that I've taken camping / 4WDing / trekking / backpacking etc trips without any dramas. It's been dropped, covered in dust, splashed with mud (& water) and it still performs like on Day 1. They're quite sturdy - I know of a few that are used professionally & have copped a fair bit of abuse in their working lives, still going strong.

Anyhow I wouldn't discount a DSLR just because you're planning to "actively" use it - just my $0.02 worth.
Nar no plans to take underwater photos, My ears are buggered from to many years pretending I was a fish, dont want to make it any worse. I do like the idea of the d300 as I can fit the lenses that I have straight to it. and there is much more creativity that can be utilised in it rather than taking photos with the little cannon. Now for the long hunt for a well priced one