Take Better Photos: Grip Tight Micro Stand on a DSLR! @JobyInc

The other day I was searching for a way to get pets and kids (and for that matter adults) to look straight into my camera lens.  This is mostly for those group shots not the more spontaneous and candid shots.  I've seen various ideas including gizmos you attached to your lens that looks like a scrunci with a smiling stuffed animal or hand puppet (which do work).  

I recently reviewed the Joby Grip Tight Micro Stand in a previous post and love it.  You can use the stand both horizontally or vertically as shown here.

But while I was searching the web I found this article on Joby's blog about how to take better pictures of your kids.  I was intrigued and had to get the little hot shoe adapter, especially since it was only $5.00 on Amazon (it is actually only $1.54 plus $2.98 for shipping - the shipping is more!)

Here's what I have:

First I took apart the Grip Tight Microstand by unscrewing the tripod base (on the right) from the Grip Tight (on the left).  The little hot shoe adapter is in the center.  I was thinking I might be able to make one myself using washers and screws from Home Depot, but for only $5.50, why not just get this perfect fit?

Then I attached the Grip Tight to the hot shoe adapter.  You can purchase the hot shoe adapter on Amazon.

Next, I attached the hot shoe adapter together with the Joby Grip Tight stand.   By turning the screw on the bottom you can secure it to the flash mount. Then secure the Grip Tight with the top screw. You want to have the iPhone display face the subjects.

This is what it will look like when the phone is attached (can be any smart phone with a screen that can display in horizontal mode).  

I was thinking I might even take a video when I'm doing a portrait session.  Could be useful information later on.

Here's what it looks like from my angle.  What's great is I can use a Youtube clip from Sesame Street or Disney to get the kids attention.  Or I can save a clip of my barking dog to get a  pet's attention.  I can even just turn the display in live video mode so my group can see themselves in the camera.  When I tell them to sit up tall and smile, they can see for themselves if they are rocking it in the camera.  What a great tool to keep in your photographer's kit.

Here's a break down of the cost:

• Joby Micro Stand: $19.95 ($19.95 without tripod, $29.95 with tripod)
• Hot Shoe Adapter ($5.50)
• Total = $25.45 (plus tax in some states)

I'm having a great time with this set up.  

Tell us, what do you do, say or use to get your wee little one's attention?  We'd love to feature your set up.  Email us at momswhoclick@yahoo.com if you'd like to post a write up on your DIY ideas.

Disclaimer: I was provided with a Joby Grip Tight Micro Stand for review.  All opinions are 100% honest and my own.  I purchased the hot shoe mount on my own.  I totally love this new set up for taking family portraits.