GP-VPT2BT: The Versatile Everyday Companion
Lightweight, sturdy and highly versatile - that's how I would describe Sony's GP-VPT2BT Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander. The GP-VPT2BT is a fuss-free shooting grip suitable for different types of content creation, ranging from vlogging, day-to photography and videography, to even small-scale productions.
Since its launch in early 2020, the GP-VPT2BT has been a staple in my camera bag due to its size, portability and functionality. Having used the GP-VPT2BT with various Sony's Alpha cameras the past year, I knew it would be a perfect companion for two of the best compact mirrorless offerings by Sony, the Alpha 7C (Full-Frame) and the Alpha 6600 (APS-C).
To show you how great the GP-VPT2BT is, I decided to have my production assistant, Tessa, who loves vlogging and taking photos, join me in taking the shooting grip out with both cameras. Like me, she loves it and feels it's an indispensable tool for Sony's Alpha users.
Here are three reasons why the GP-VPT2BT might just be for you.
#1 Comfortable for all day use
The GP-VPT2BT offers a contoured grip for maximum comfort, cable-free Bluetooth connectivity and easy-to-use buttons - what more can you ask for in a shooting grip of this build and size? Holding it up for hours shooting vlogs or taking travel photos in neither tiring nor cumbersome. Pairing it with the Alpha 7C and Alpha 6600 with LCD screens that can flip outwards also made framing for the perfect selfie all that much easier.
The four buttons are easy and straightforward: (i) Photo for photo-taking, (ii) Movie for video recording, (iii) C1 for custom function and (iv) Zoom for zooming in and out. There is also a lock switch to prevent you from accidentally pressing the buttons when using the grip.
The ability to turn the GP-VPT2BT into a tripod was one of the features we absolutely adored. Simply spreading its integrated legs and setting it down on a flat surface made it easy for hands-free photo-taking and video recording.
#2 Directional flexibility for different situations
The GP-VPT2BT's functional design for directional flexibility is what makes it stand out from other shooting grips out there. Being able to smoothly tilt the mounted camera upwards and downwards makes it very easy for one to get the ideal shooting angle without holding it uncomfortably.
The ability to rotate the mounted camera 360° with a simple push-and-lock mechanism allows you to switch easily between selfie and normal shooting positions. The ensures that no time is wasted and improves your chances of getting the shot!
#3 Doubling-up as a handle grip
For those of us who are used to rigging up cameras with cages, the GP-VPT2BT can actually double-up as a handle grip. In fact, with its built-in Bluetooth connectivity and directional flexibility (as mentioned above), it might even be more suitable for run-and-gun situations when compared to your traditional handle grips.
We mounted the GP-VPT2BT onto the top of the external cage for the Alpha 7C. This allowed us to take photos as well as shoot videos from interesting and creative angles which would have not been possible if we were just shooting hand-held.
Paring the GP-VPT2BT with a caged-up Alpha 7C allowed us to mount a small portable light next to the ECM-B1M Shotgun Microphone (attached via the Multi Interface Shoe). This combination ensures optimum audio capture and lighting when shooting in the evening or in low-light environments.
Pairing the GP-VPT2BT with two of my favorite Sony's Alpha cameras has made me enjoy using the shooting grip even more. If you are looking to add more dimensions and creativity to your photography and videography, or improve the stability and framing for you vlogs, the GP-VPT2BT could very well be the next addition in your camera bag!
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author. They do not reflect the opinions or views of Sony Singapore.
