This clever iPhone accessory has been on my 15 Pro Max for six months and has completely changed my experience with the phone's camera.
Is this the ideal tool for iPhone camera users?
Over the years, I have tried various accessories for the iPhone camera that promise to enhance the photographic experience with the smartphone. However, very few have lived up to that promise, as they are often cumbersome to carry, require frequent charging, or simply don’t add anything valuable to creativity, which quickly discourages me. When the Fjorden grip came onto my radar, I felt skeptical, though curious enough to give it a try.
Since I started using the Fjorden grip about six months ago, at the end of the summer of 2024, it has remained almost constantly attached to my iPhone 15 Pro Max. This already says a lot about its undeniable appeal. The initial advertising promised to transform my iPhone into a “real” camera, which was a bit exaggerated, although they have since modified their message to “Shoot like a professional with your iPhone.” Nevertheless, its clever design has influenced the way I photograph; it has led me to do so in a more serious manner, with greater consideration and creativity. This alone justifies its investment, and the quality of my photos has notably improved.
The Fjorden grip is designed to provide a better hold on the iPhone, as well as physical controls for the shutter, zoom, exposure, focus, and more. It excels in this regard. It is lightweight and compact, even when stored in the back pocket of jeans. Its design fits my larger hands comfortably. The two-step shutter button is far superior to the native controls of the iPhone 15 Pro, and although the iPhone 16 has a new, equally good camera button, the grip continues to enhance the photographic experience, especially when shooting with one hand.
It’s important to note that ergonomics are significantly better in landscape orientation when taking photos. When shooting in portrait mode, which is popular on many social media platforms, the experience becomes a bit uncomfortable. Although the grip can rotate for vertical use, this disconnects the MagSafe connection and may compromise stability. Thus, I prefer to rotate both the iPhone and the grip, which is fine, although it requires both hands.
Regarding price and availability, the basic Fjorden package costs $159.99 / £139.99 and includes the camera grip and an adhesive adapter. The Plus package adds a MagSafe case for $179.99 / £169.99, while the Pro package, which includes a clamshell case and a wrist strap, is offered for $199.99 / £199.99. The Ultimate package is expected to cost $239.99 / £229.99 and come with an additional MagSafe adapter. Availability and prices in Australia are yet to be determined.
A useful aspect for one-handed shooting is the strap included in the Pro package. While it’s not a revolutionary accessory, it proves very valuable for taking photos on the street and in awkward places, like on the edge of a boat, as it prevents the device from slipping from my hands. However, the fabric holding the strap could be more durable, as I have already worn out one of the loops and the other seems fragile.
The Fjorden grip works with a CR2032 battery, which promises to last about a year. After five months of heavy use, my device is still at 80%, indicating that this claim is quite accurate. However, the Bluetooth connection used by the grip can drain the iPhone's battery during long photography sessions, which is a drawback, and it would be advisable to carry a power bank. It’s worth noting that this Bluetooth allows the grip to also function as a remote shutter release.
The grip is compatible with the Fjorden camera app and other third-party apps like Camera Pro, and it will soon be fully integrated with the Leica LUX Pro app as part of a collaboration between the two brands. The Fjorden app allows shooting in automatic, manual, or portrait modes, and it is of high quality. It’s a pity that it is only accessible upon purchasing the grip, as it could also be useful on its own.
In summary, despite a few minor details that could be improved, I am very satisfied with this grip. It has been almost always in my back pocket attached to my iPhone 15 Pro Max since I bought it. My photos now reflect a more deliberate and artistic approach, considering composition and light in a way similar to how I would with a more conventional camera. The grip is not only ergonomic but also provides me with optimal control over key parameters, greatly enriching my photographic experience.
