This invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a stable holding mechanism which can pivot through a predetermined amount to switch between two predetermined positions in using and repositing states, and enables stable phototaking operation. The image pickup apparatus has a grip member which assists the grip of the image pickup apparatus main body for the user and can pivot through a predetermined amount about a pivot support to switch between two predetermined positions in using and repositing states. The pivot support which pivotally supports the grip member is arranged at a corner of the side surface of the image pickup apparatus main body farthest from the phototaking optical system.