Last month, I posted an article detailing the Camoric Snapgrip Pro camera grip I had recently purchased. At that time, although the review was somewhat positive, it was based on limited experience. Now that I have spent significant time using the device, I feel it worthwhile to share my current thoughts and highlight a ‘gotcha’ I have come across.

First off, I have to say that the magnetic attachment performs far better than I had hoped. It has handled every situation thrown at it and has always remained firmly attached to the phone. So much so that I regularly stuff both grip and attached camera in my pant pocket while awaiting the next opportunity to shoot, pulling both out as though one device.

Another concern, after having frustrating experiences in the past with other devices, was the Bluetooth trigger. Once again, I have to say this has sailed through all experiences with flying colors (see caveat below). Pairing is simple (hold the shutter button for 5 seconds) and consistent, the only issue being difficulty confirming the pairing status via the corresponding LED in bright daylight.

I have found no issues with the remaining features (wireless phone charging, docking station use), both of which have performed well, as per my original review.

As for issues, my only (slight) criticism is the difficulty in seeing the status LEDs in bright sunlight. This is minor and perhaps should be expected considering the small size of the device.

There is one caveat others should be aware of. If one camera app is open and Bluetooth is connected, and then a second camera app is opened, the trigger on the second app will not function. I have come across this ‘feature’ on occasion as I switch between the native camera app and one that supports long exposures. However, this is not an issue with the grip but thought to be in the method the iPhone handles such situation (ie 1st app does not release the connection until closed).

Nevertheless, experience has taught me to test the trigger upon opening any camera app—better to find out before you shoot than miss important shots.

As a bonus experience, in taking long exposure shots with my iPhone attached to my bike (don’t ask…), the grip proved invaluable being used as a remote trigger. It was easily held in hand while riding and allowed shots that would have been impossible otherwise.

So, is the grip really needed?

Since purchase, there have been many times that I have taken shots without using the grip (OK, I left it at home…), but I have to admit that on every occasion I was left wishing I had the device on hand. As stated in the initial review, the grip makes the phone more comfortable and secure in handling, with the remote shutter button proving much easier to operate than using any of the traditional methods.

This is fast becoming a ‘must-have’ item on my photo shoots, and I really do find myself becoming more attentive to the scene in front of me when using it.

Again, this device requires the use of a MagSafe camera/case, so it may not be for everyone. However, for those that fall into that category and wish to enhance their experience of taking pictures on their phone, the SnapGrip comes with my personal recommendation.