Get a grip?

Get a grip…

I am confused by the add-on grips that are available for most cameras, and are a built-in feature of “pro” cameras.

Just – why?

I can see it, certainly, for action work. You’re shooting hand-held, and having the ability to go for a solid grip whatever the orientation of the camera makes sense. The trade-off between handling and sheer weight may be worthwhile.

It doesn’t work, I think, in the studio. I’ve never had any trouble holding a camera on end, especially when using flash.

But for landscapes? When weight is an issue (hence carbon-fibre tripods), surely it’s better to avoid the grip? And how easy it is to hold the camera simply doesn’t matter when it’s attached to the aforementioned carbon-fibre tripod! If you need the spare battery capacity, just carry a spare battery…

If you aspire to a top camera, you may well gravitate towards a Nikon D3x. Now, I’ve not held one of these, but I’ve held a D3, and it was seriously bad for my wrist. Add a “pro” zoom lens you need to spend time weightlifting before you dream of taking a picture.

Just as bad if you’re a Canon user: an EOS 1D will come with that grip built-in… Maybe a 5D Mk II has advantages other than cost!

Or is it like the Hasselblad Adjustable hood – a “must have” for every poser?

If so, perhaps it’s a clear indication that some togs really want to be on the other side of the camera. Posing…