How to hold your phone camera steady for video? One effective method is to use a camera grip.
In this post, I review the Ulanzi CG02, a multifunctional smartphone camera grip, equipped with a fill light, remote control, and various mounting options.
Watch on Youtube… https://youtu.be/BgxyIRmsjpU
Unboxing
The grip arrived in a compact, black box. I ordered the bundle that comes with a mini tripod. Inside, I found the grip itself, a detachable Bluetooth remote, a USB-C charging cable, and a user manual.
First Impressions
The grip felt solid and well-made, with a textured surface for a secure hold. Its compact size was also a plus, easily fitting into my camera bag.
Setting Up
Getting started with the Ulanzi CG02 is a breeze, and its user-friendly design ensures you’ll be up and running in no time. Here’s a quick guide:
- Charging the Grip: The first step is to ensure the grip has enough power. There are two things to charge. The fill light and the remote. Use the provided USB-C cable to connect the power charger to the USB-C port on the side of the grip to charge the fill light. Then, connect the cable to the USB-C port on the side of the remote to charge the remote. An indicator light on the grip will flash red when charging and turn green when fully charged. Similarly, an indicator light on the remote will turn red when charging and turn off when fully charged. According to the specifications, the fill light can last for 120 minutes, but there is no mention of the remote’s battery life.
- Mounting Your Smartphone: Insert your phone into the spring-loaded phone holder. Ensure that your phone’s camera is aligned with the grip’s opening and that your phone is centered in the clamp for optimal stability. The clamp fingers and the entire back of the grip are rubberized. So I am confident it will hold onto my phone firmly.
- Pairing the Bluetooth Remote: Press and hold the shutter button on the remote until the green indicator light starts flashing. On your phone, enable Bluetooth and search for new devices. Select “Ulanzi” to pair. The green indicator light on the remote will turn off once connected.
How to Use
- Shooting Photos and Videos: With your phone securely mounted and the remote paired, you’re ready to capture content. Use the remote’s shutter button to take photos or start/stop video recording. The magnetic detachable remote adds a layer of convenience, allowing me to trigger photos and videos without touching my phone. According to the specs, the remote will work even from 15 meters away.
- Adjusting the Fill Light: Press the power button on the grip for 3 seconds to turn on the fill light. Quickly press the button to cycle through the three brightness levels. The three-level adjustable fill light is a fantastic addition, especially for those impromptu low-light shoots. The fill light is ideal for close-up shots and vlogging. Experiment with different brightness levels to achieve the desired effect. Remember to turn off the fill light when not in use to conserve battery life. Press and hold the button for three seconds to turn it off.
- Mounting Accessories: Utilize the cold shoe mount and 1/4″ screw hole to attach additional accessories like microphones or tripods. This allows for even more creative possibilities.
Additional Tips:
- Should you encounter connectivity problems with the remote, attempt to re-pair it with your phone or disable Bluetooth on other devices that might be paired with the remote.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent Build Quality: The CG02 feels durable and well-constructed.
- Versatile Functionality: The combination of the fill light, remote control, and mounting options makes it a versatile tool.
- Improved Stability: The grip significantly improves handheld shooting.
- Compact and Portable: It’s easy to carry around in a bag or pocket.
Cons:
- Bulkiness: The grip does add some bulk to your smartphone, which might be a concern for some.
Comparison to Similar Products
While there are other smartphone grips on the market, the Ulanzi CG02 stands out due to its combination of features and build quality. Many competitors offer either a fill light or a remote, but rarely both. The CG02’s versatility and sturdy construction give it an edge.
Get Yours
The Ulanzi CG02 has become an essential tool in my smartphone filmmaking kit. It enhances my mobile photography and videography in several ways, from providing better stability to offering creative lighting solutions. While it might be a bit bulky for some, its benefits far outweigh this minor drawback.
If you’re looking to take your smartphone content creation to the next level, the Ulanzi CG02 is a worthy investment. It’s a versatile, well-made gadget that delivers on its promises.
Comment YES to find out more about the Ulanzi CG02 or get yours here!
~ Adrian Lee
