Olympus Stylus 1 Camera

Olympus unveiled its Stylus 1 camera on Tuesday, appealing to semi-pro photographers who aspire to take more than just smartphone snapshots.

The camera-maker equipped the Stylus 1 with an electronic viewfinder (with 1.44 million dot resolution), a built-in flash and an i.ZUIKO 10.7x lens that retracts behind a removable automatic lens cap when the camera is not in use.

For those looking to harness the Stylus 1’s video-recording functions, the camera offers1080p recording and stereo sound. It can also capture high-speed video at 120fps and 240fps, allowing for slick slow-motion video playback.

Built around the camera’s lens is a control ring that allows users to switch between digital and analog modes of operation. What’s more, the compact camera can quickly be connected via Wi-Fi for rapid photo-sharing.

It’s getting harder and harder to come up with reasons not to shoot with some of the higher-quality smartphone cameras out there, such as the iPhone 5S. But the new Stylus 1 could be a solid solution for photographers who seek a middle ground between high-end DSLRs and smartphone cameras.

Selling for $699.99, the Olympus Stylus 1 will be available in December.