I recently purchased a GoPro Hero 4 Silver, SRP red & macro filters and SRP tray. I will dive with it for the first time in March in Bonaire and post some movies when we return. My budget ran dry so no lights this trip but next trip for sure.
In my opinion if you intend on shooting stills, you need a good dedicated point & shoot or DSLR if you have the cash.
The cost of the housing will likely cost more than the camera but the image quality will be better than those "underwate ready" cameras".
If you are shooting video you need a dedicated video camera and nothing beats a GoPro for the money. I have around $750 invested in my GoPro system and by the time I get some lights it will be at least $1,200.
In either case still or video, it is essential to use external lighting moved away from the camera lens with a tray and arms. If not, backscatter will be a problem.
If you have any doubts on the kind of video you can shoot with a GoPro, check out this divers work:
Critters Of Sulawesi
Check out the GoPro forum at
Scubaboard for lots of good advice.