a review by Tom Piper
“The best camera is the one that’s with you!” . . . an amazingly true statement which well describes my ever-present iPhone 5S. It’s certainly convenient, but isn’t always steady or sturdy, often begging for a stand or holder. I’ve acquired numerous tripods, iPhone holders, extendable poles, lenses cases and more, but have now found a great device that solves many issues.
The Grip&Shoot wirelessly controls my iPhone with just one hand, which in turn reduces shaky videos and extended fatigue. With the free GRIP&SHOOT App and this attachable handle, I have gained comfort and support through full one-handed control of the camera's operation. I squeeze the trigger to capture a photo (or Start/Stop a video), and use the +/- buttons to zoom in and out on my subject. It feels natural to hold, and easy to handle (even turning itself off when done).
It’s so simple to use and easy to set up in minutes. I just insert my iPhone into the case (buttons first), which is made out of a ballistic grade polycarbonate and features a locking shoe built into its side for convenient and secure attachment to the Bluetooth Smart Grip. Next, I download and install on my iPhone the free GRIP&SHOOT camera app from the iTunes App Store. After tapping any button to pair the Bluetooth functions (or wake up the link), I’m ready to capture perfect pictures and video.
Simple, direct and effective, this combination works very well because it was designed with photographers in mind. From its ergonomic handle to the removable tripod stand, the GRIP&SHOOT system has everything I need to shoot photos and video like a pro. I can use it as initially assembled, or I can detach the removable stand on the bottom, attach it to the Shooter Case, mount it on a tripod or extender pole, and shoot remotely with the Smart Grip (including zooming). Or, if I would rather use my Glif, FastCap or Joby Micro Stand, I can detach the Grip Adapter on the bottom of the Smart Grip, attach it to the alternate holder, then mount it on the Smart Grip. The versatility is great, and easy to adapt to a variety of shooting situations.
The entire system includes two Shooter Cases (iPhone 5/5S & 4/4S), Bluetooth Smart Grip, Grip Adapter, leather carrying pouch (a well-designed asset) and wrist lanyard. The whole setup is available for $99.95 in black or white from http://www.gripandshoot.com. Other accessories are also available, such as a spare grip adapter, or (coming soon) a cold shoe adapter and JawZ adaptor (to grip any size phone, with or without case). Interestingly, they developed this product with an open API so developers could also use the Bluetooth buttons for game, utilities and other apps (including Android devices).
If the iPhone is your best camera, you deserve a tool to make photography and videos easier to do with results that are more pleasing to view. I recommend the Grip&Shoot as a great shooting device, just as it improved my collection. As an aside, it is also amazing how many people have stopped me to ask about this unique device, captivated by how well it works.
Comments