Review: Camtrol Camera Control Grip
Short version: Expensive but worth having around, this rock-solid accessory stabilizes and makes video more dynamic.
Features:
![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,<svg height="412" width="620" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1"/>)
- Locking ball-joint arm gives you a good grip from any angle
- Retractable legs allow you to set camera down anywhere
- Camtroller remote for controlling zoom, recording, etc
- Reposition camera to adjust center of gravity
- MSRP: $399
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction
- Locking arm feels reliable
- Having just a little extra latitude with shots feels great
Cons:
- Too expensive for amateurs, too basic for pros
- Grip not for everyone
- Tilting/Rotating LCD or monitor necessary
Full review:
This is one of those products that’s a little easier to show in a video. I’ll just do that and then address some other points. Sorry about the sound, I haven’t really calibrated my webcam for this kind of thing.
http://player.ooyala.com/player.swf?embedCode=xuN2pyMTo3QUNHA6AsolIp5QKIf1gkXd&version=2
So there you have it. It essentially extends your reach, lets you do stuff like self-shots or extreme highs and lows with ease. It also lets you adjust the center of gravity for your rig and the weight helps stabilize the shot. All in all a pretty great accessory. Just don’t forget to take off your neckstrap for your video review, like I did.
I had some trouble making the remote work with the T2i, but firmware upgrades usually take care of these things. Threading the remote is a pain you generally only have to go through with once, and once it’s done, it feels like a natural extension of your camera.
The trouble I can see with this thing is basically that it lies in a rather uncomfortable area between consumer and pro. It’s too expensive for a guy who just wants to stabilize and extend his $500 camcorder’s range, and it’s too limited for a guy who needs to do follow focus on his 7D.
Conclusion
I still like the Camtrol, despite its questionable placement as far as features and price in the market. With a little work, it can make your video feel much less like amateur handheld footage. It’s well-built and easy to operate. Is it worth $400? People have certainly spent more on less.
![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,<svg height="164" width="300" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1"/>)
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