It’s easy for professionals to scoff at bridge cameras, but the fact is that they are actually becoming better and better. One such example of what looks to be a killer addition to that market is the newly announced Pentax XG-1.

The XG-1 features a 16mp sensor, which features some advanced sensor based image stabilization technology capable of reducing or eliminating most camera shake. In front of that sensor, you have a nice 52x optical zoom lens, or roughly 24-1248mm, with a variable aperture of F/2.8 to F/5.6. But the real “highlight” feature of this new camera is a very unique feature, the camera is capable of 9fps, making it ideal for capturing fast action – maybe even sports (that will depend on the buffer).

Pentax XG-1 Specs

• 16MP 1/2.3″ BSI CMOS Sensor
• 52x Optical Zoom f/2.8-5.6 Lens
• 24-1,248mm (35mm Equivalent)
• 200k-dot Electronic Viewfinder
• 3.0″ 460k-dot LCD Screen
• Sensor-Shift Shake Reduction
• Full HD 1920 x 1080 Video at 30 fps
• 60 & 30 fps High Speed Shooting Modes
• ISO 3200 & 10 fps Continuous Shooting
• High Dynamic Range Mode

If you are interested in picking the new Pentax XG-1 up you can pre-order it now for the low price of $399. Not a bad deal, and would likely make a great first camera for an aspiring photographer.

To me, this looks like a great little bridge camera, and if not for better – though much more expensive- bridge camera options in the Panazonic FZ1000, and Sony RX10, I would probably be a lot more excited about this one. But for the price, this could be a great “Family/Vacation” camera.

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What are your thoughts on this new Pentax XG-1? What are  your thoughts on where bridge cameras have been going lately? Leave a comment below.