We love innovation, so it stands to reason that we'd love underwater-camera manufacturer SeaLife. The world leader in underwater camera equipment, SeaLife today announced the introduction of its new DC1400, "a revolutionary camera that will allow all levels of divers, adventurers and watersports enthusiasts to take amazing photos and high-definition videos with ease and confidence” said Brian Correia, director of sales and marketing.

The new camera features five easy-to-use “piano keys” — note: we've used the DC1400's predecessor, the DC1200, and the keys are easy to push even with bulky drysuit gloves — that allow you to take either true high-definition 720p video or 14-megapixel, high-resolution images whether you're scuba diving or just at home with the kids.

The DC1400 is rated to 200 feet and has a 5X optical zoom, which you can operate without releasing your grip from the camera. The Super Macro Auto Focus lens will focus down to within one inch from the subject. The camera’s external polycarbonate body is rubber-armored for sure-grip handling and shock-protection, perfect for shore diving.

We see the DC1400 also offers six specially designed underwater modes, making it possible for beginners to get sharp, colorful underwater pictures right out of the box. (Again, we tested the DC1200 over a year ago and had magazine-quality images from just a couple of dives in the Oregon Coast Aquarium.)

The DC1400's slim, pocket-sized inner camera can be removed quickly from its rubber-armored waterproof housing for land adventures too. Twenty-seven scene modes — from Auto to Shutter or Aperture Priority to Smile Detection to Landscape to Night Scene to Fireworks — provide optimal programming to take perfect images and videos in any condition. In Anti-Shake mode, the DC1400’s new Optical Image Stabilization CCD-shift technology reduces image blur caused by hand movement on land. And yes, it has a relatively large screen (three inches) so you're not squinting to see what you just took a picture of.

Available at dive and photo shops, the DC1400's MSRP is $529.95. For more information or to find a dealer, visit www.sealife-cameras.com.