5D grips

I am thinking about getting a 5D or 1dmkII. I would actually prefer the 5d i think for what i shoot but would want to grip it. That said the grip on the 5D seems to take away from its very sexy appeal. I know its not about the look but the quality but that is somewhat important to me. Any thoughts of people with both?

Chris

It might help if you gave us an idea of what you intend to do with it, or what your XTI isn't doing that you really want to. Does full frame or weather sealing matter? Price?

I shoot a lot of landscapes and lowlight photography. I dont like flash, why i dont know... Anyway I am needing a camera with a better iso handling than the xti. Would love the fps of the 1d but I think I have used ai servo and continuous mode all of three times with either xt or xti. I just think the 1d's look a lot slicker gripped. I actually think the xti grip makes the camera look nicer, but the 5d seems to be a negative, visually that is.

Chris

I actually like the grip alot and when you are just walking around with a somewhat heavy lens like a 24-70, it gives equal distribution in weight. I've gotten so used it, that having no grip makes it feel toy like. Hope this helps.

Well, you've got me there. I've never paid as much attention to how the camera looks as I have to the pictures that come out of it. So on that end, if you're looking for a more pleasing appearance in a camera, I'm not too certain that anyone can help you other than yourself. Also: As far as I know, none of 1-series have a grip battery like the 5D. The battery is internal where the grip would be, and that's what enables a much smoother looking design.

However, for what you've described (landscapes and high ISO), I believe the 5D is unsurpassed dollar for dollar. I'd recommend trying a 30D first because it might do the job for less than half the price (and a third of the price of a 1D2N). And if that works out well for you, then there you have it.

Having both 5D with BG-E4 grip, I seldom use the grip for landscape or road trips and travel . I only attach the grip for studio session when portrait orientation is more often used. I want it light on my neck, the grip adds a lot of weight since it is magnesium.

You don't really need the grip on 5D for the balance...And the battery life on 5D is so long lasting that you probably don't need a second battery most of the time.

But for sure 1D mark III is a better choice if you can afford it...

It really isn't about looks on the camera imo. I like using the grip for my own needs. I don't care about the weight too much. If you have small hands than I wouldn't suggest it. I like the convenience of the shutter button on the grip when in portrait mode. If you think it's too heavy for you to carry when on a trip than take it off. This is the reason for using it when needing it.

Comparing the 5D to my 1Ds Mk 1, the 5d grip does make the camera easier to use with a hand strap, but the grip itself lacks the rubber coating of the body (something I intend to rectify) making it a little more slippery vs the 1DS.

Thanks all. I ended up getting a new 5D and ordered the grip with it. So far it has been a charm and definitely wouldnt shoot it without. Will give it a good workout this weekend.

Chris

I have changed my mind on the look thing. Now that I own one with a grip I think it looks very nice. The only pics id ever seen were online and no one had one in stores to look at. Overall I am well satisfied with the appeal!

I had grips on both my other cameras (XTi and 30D). I think I'm going to not get one for the 5D as I rarely use the button layout when shooting in portrait mode, I just reach.

I use the vertical often enough to make it worth it I think, but say I didnt. With larger lenses the bottom of my palm (the side touching the grip) seems to support a good portion of the weight. If I were shooting with a 50 prime all day I would take it off, which I almost never do. Likely shooting 24-70, 70-200 or 400 prime. All of which require as much meat behind them as possible. Just my 2 cents.

The 5D grip has a more solid feel compared to the XXD grip. PLus I like the * button on there where I use it to lock focus.