Sony - GP-VPT3 Multi-function Bluetooth® Shooting Grip, Tripod and Remote Comander - White

You definitely need this! Especially if you are wanting to record videos the controls are so good! There is no lag at all and the remote lasts forever!

The Sony Multi-Function Shooting Grip is a great accessory for Sony cameras. The Bluetooth remote controls work flawlessly for photos and video, and the grip easily converts into a mini tripod which is perfect for vlogging or quick setups. It’s lightweight, solidly built, and makes shooting much more stable and convenient. Highly recommended for any Sony shooter.

The Sony GP‑VPT3 is a great little remote and grip combo. Even though my A7V has a built‑in remote feature through the phone app, this thing is still worth keeping in my kit. It connects fast, has zero lag, and works every time without draining my phone battery. Definitely a reliable backup and a smooth option for quick tripod shots or self‑recording.

The Sony GP-VPT3/B Multi-function Bluetooth Shooting Grip / Tripod, with Wireless Remote Commander is the most recent iteration of the Sony combination shooting grip and tripod accessory. The new version is a nice upgrade from the previous model. Notable improvements were made to the control buttons/functions, and the most significant change is that the wireless remote controls are now incorporated into a separate Bluetooth remote control module (RMT-VP2) which is detachable from the shooting grip. I have been using two of the older Sony GP-VPT2BT units for the past several years with two Sony mirrorless cameras. My newest Sony camera also needed another shooting grip and I selected the newer GP-VPT3, which sells for approximately the same price point as the older model did. The removable Bluetooth remote control module is a game-changing feature when shooting talking-head videos! The capability to start and stop recording, zoom and pull focus without walking to the camera location can save a fair amount of editing in post, and any reduction of effort in the workflow is welcome. Of course, the remote control is just as useful whenever you need to quickly and easily control those camera functions anytime that the camera is not being used handheld. The remote control will function up to approximately 33 feet away from the camera. The RMT-VP2 remote control module snaps into the main body of the GP-VPT3 grip. It is mechanically (not magnetically) retained by a pair of small, plastic, spring-loaded pins near the bottom, so it is important to insert the top first before snapping in the bottom of the module. There is a cutout and metal bar near the bottom of the module, which apparently could be used for attaching a lanyard or small strap, if desired. The grip/tripod allows significant flexibility in adjusting both pan (up to 360 degrees) and tilt (up to 90° forward or back). Among the electronic remote camera controls are zoom function (rocker switch), as well as still photo shutter control (button), video start/stop control (button), plus C1 control (custom assignable button). Added to the GP-VPT3 is an AF ON button which works with certain Sony cameras, but not the ZV-E10. Additionally, the new version of the rotating thumb switch, which on the old model was limited to turning the Bluetooth controls on and off (Lock), is now expanded to allow selection of Zoom or Focus functionality for the rocker switch. The grip is manufactured of heavy plastic which is textured on most hand-held surfaces. It feels solid and is both comfortable and balanced with a camera mounted with the kit lens or small prime or zoom lenses. Interestingly, the GP-VPT3 at 183 g is 27 g (slightly less than 1 oz) lighter than the GP-VPT2 which weighs 210 g. Obviously, balance with a camera with a long lens mounted would likely be an issue, as would stability when used as a tabletop tripod with a front-heavy camera and lens combination. With compact and lightweight cameras like the ZV-E models and α6xxx models, it is ideal. The bottom of each of the three legs has a rubber pad for stability when used as a tabletop tripod. The camera mounts securely to the top of the grip/tripod with the standard ¼”-20 thread tripod screw mount. The top plate can be panned/rotated a full 360°, with locking detents at each 90° increment. The release button for that rotational function is conveniently placed immediately below the top mounting plate and is easily operated with the user’s thumb. The entire head unit tilts up or down a full 90° (180° range of motion). The tilt function has a knurled friction control adjustment knob on the right, as well as ten detent locking positions for the up and down adjustments. The tilt lock-release button is on the left and likewise is easily accessible and operated. Obviously, the mounted camera should be supported and stabilized whenever adjusting tilt angle on the grip/tripod. On the rear surface of the grip, below the pan/tilt mount is the detachable remote control unit for wireless, Bluetooth operation of camera functions. The “Photo” button provides shutter control for still shots in the same manner as the shutter button on the camera body. Depressing the button half-way activates camera auto-focus, which when achieved illuminates the small LED indicator lamp located near the top center. Continuing to full button depression activates the camera shutter. The “Movie” button toggles video function on and off. Video recording is confirmed by illumination of the LED indicator. The rocker switch is switchable for Zoom lens control or Focus control (when the camera is set to Manual Focus mode). The C1 button replicates the user programmable C1 button on the camera body and the AF ON button replicates the functionality of AF ON button on the camera body of some Sony cameras, not including the ZV-E10. The rotating Lock (and Power) switch, which locks all of the controls to prevent inadvertent operation of the camera and conserve battery power also allows assignment of Focus or Zoom control to the rocker switch. The GP-VPT3 is powered by a single CR2032 lithium button battery, which is included. The GP-VPT3 must be paired to the camera via Bluetooth using a simple and straightforward process. The grip length is about 6.75” from stem to stern, and when functioning as a tabletop tripod, the bottom of the camera is elevated 5.25”. The tripod is rated to hold a maximum load of 53 ounces (1.5 kg). A convenient velvet fabric, drawstring storage pouch is included. Even though it is light weight, I am confident that the GP-VPT3 will be durable. I have been using two of the older GP-VPT2 shooting grips for several years and they remain in perfect condition despite the extensive use they have received. The obvious target users for the GP-VPT3 shooting grip / tripod are vloggers. Walking videos, both outward facing and selfie are much easier when using the GP-VPT3. It may not be a stabilizing gimbal, but it is compact and lightweight, very utilitarian, easy to use and carry and store in even a small camera bag. I have also found that the GP-VPT3 is also very useful for conventional photography and videography applications. The additional reach and camera operating control button on the extension really facilitate shooting from high angles and low angles, without being a contortionist. Likewise, the usefulness and convenience of a compact, lightweight, stable and fully adjustable (pan/tilt) tabletop tripod, with integrated controls for basic camera functions serves many useful photography and videography purposes. I find the GP-VPT3/B to be extremely handy and useful. When my camera is not mounted to the shooting grip, the accessory is always kept immediately available in my camera bag, tucked into the nice drawstring storage pouch that Sony includes in the package. Sony products are typically well designed, well made and reliable. My Sony cameras are all stellar, and the GP-VPT3/B Shooting Grip / Tripod, with Wireless Remote Commander is a very useful accessory! It is an excellent improvement on the GP-VPT2 shooting grips that I have been using for several years.

This is a versatile accessory that serves as a grip for extended reach, a simple tripod, and a controller that pairs nicely with cameras like Sony’s ZV-E10. It’s built well with quality black plastic and thoughtfully designed mount that’s easy to operate for quick mounting and removal. The lack of gimbal or stabilization prevents this from being the best grip alone. That is slightly a shame given how the ZV-E10 that I own lacks IBIS and could really benefit from such a thing. At the same time, having a grip at all helps move that camera further away from your body when pointing it at yourself. The further away, the more you can take advantage of digital stabilization if you need it. The remote features are nice, but really shine when detached. Each button and rocker is easy to feel for, allowing you to adjust focus or zoom, start or stop video, or take a photo while operating the remote out of view. When attached, moving your hand or manipulating controls often causes you to move the camera a bit too much, which can easily show up in your video if camera stabilization is off or reduced. Lastly, the easy flip-out legs make for a sturdy little tripod. When taking photos while traveling, this works well for placing your camera on a nearby surface. The whole package is compact and portable - and comes with a simple cloth cinch bag, making it easy to throw into a suitcase or bag. The legs have a decent amount of grip and friction to stay put when positioned, but they don’t extend. That seems perfectly appropriate for a product like this as it keeps it durable and straightforward. Overall, this grip is well made and feels durable, with an easy to use attachment gear design and a remote to control various camera functions live. Along with unsteady operation when using the controls while attached, my only other gripe is with the price. I wish it were a bit cheaper than it is at full price, but it’s a thoughtful design and I’d still recommend it if it meets your needs.