Photo Batteries: Control the Cost and Aggravation
Replacing or recharging photo batteries can be expensive and time consuming. Cameras are high drain devices so it's important
to know how many shots a fully charged battery will deliver.
frequent stops to change or recharge camera batteries will definitely put a
damper on a photo outing.
Batteries Used in Photo Devices
Film cameras use a variety of batteries including standard sizes, button and
coin, specialty batteries and battery packs. Some of these batteries, especially
for older cameras, are getting harder to find. Fortunately there are web sites
specializing in rare photo batteries. Visit our
Partner Sites
page for recommended links.
Batteries for
digital cameras are typically either standard AA or a rechargeable
battery pack. Many Prosumer and digital SLR cameras use battery packs. Specs vary but
many newer lithium ion (Li-ion) packs can be recharged in a couple of hours and will take hundreds of shots. AA batteries are common in compact
digital cameras. While replacements are readily available, it can quickly become
costly.
External flash and remote control units, like film cameras, employ various
types of batteries. Here again, throwaway batteries can get expensive and
frustrating.
Time and Money Saving Battery Tips
If the camera, flash, or remote uses standard or specialty disposable
batteries, a wise investment is rechargeable
batteries. Li-ion and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries are best. They are less prone to the
so-called "memory effect" of older Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) batteries, and last longer per charge than throwaway alkaline batteries.
Get the highest mAh rated rechargeable batteries you can find - at least 1600-2100 mAh. They cost a little
more but are well worth it in the long run. Also buy a good charger and at least
one extra set of batteries.
With a battery pack you're pretty much stuck with the battery
designed for the camera or other photo device. There may be upgrade options, but it's
critical to check the specs and professional reviewer comments for expected life per charge. Even with the best photo battery or battery pack, at least one
fully charged back-up is recommended.
Regardless of the battery type, a little research before you buy will save
time and money plus a lot of frustration, making your photo experience
more enjoyable.
Also see [Digital Camera Technology] [Digital Camera Comparisons]
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