Canon battery grip, advantage???

rickp

So my question is, what's the big advantage to using the battery grip on a Canon SLR?

R.

photodad1

For me it's battery life as the grip can hold up to two batteries.

ziggy53

1. Twice the run time.
2. Easier battery changes (with some flash brackets especially and with some tripod mounts).
3. Most battery grips are also portrait orientation grips and add an extra shutter button for use in vertical orientation.
4. It looks cool/more professional.
5. It helps offset the recession for the manufacturer of the grip.

colourbox

What I hear is that most people who want one get it for the extended battery life and the more comfortable grip for vertical shots. As you can see, these only matter if you do long shoots so frequently that these stamina-related factors are an issue for you.

rwells

I agree with Ziggy list, but for me, the grip allows better, more comfortable landscape oriented shooting. While holding the combo, the heel of my hand rest on the side of the grip. This allows more control of the camera body and less fatigue. Also, with the grip installed, you now have the same basic feel/distance of your thumb to the control wheel on the back of the camera body in both landscape and portrait orientation.

All my bodies have a grip and a Camdapter hand-strap. Without the grip, this just feels awkward, with the grip and Camdapter, it's very secure and no hand fatigue.

It's a lot like the comparison of shooting a compact gun where you little finger hangs off the bottom of the grip, as opposed to a full frame grip where all fingers are secure to the grip. It just allows more control with less fatigue.


YMMV

ivar

ziggy53 wrote: »

• Most battery grips are also portrait orientation grips and add an extra shutter button for use in vertical orientation.

does the 5d2 grip have the little joystick thingie? The one on the body is to far away in portrait mode with a grip.

hgernhardtjr

ivar wrote: »

does the 5d2 grip have the little joystick thingie? The one on the body is to far away in portrait mode with a grip.

Not the "joystick thingie" aka "Multi-Controller", at least my model does not and I doubt there's been a model change.

Actually, I disagree with the order Ziggy used above ... he reversed it. #5 is actually #1, and left out one other important point. It is a "BicepMaster" muscle developer accessory, allowing one to gradually develope well-toned muscles, especially with the added weight of long lenses.

NeilL

I've never shot without one (on 40D). Can't imagine what it would be like without one. It increases the purchase area of handling you have on the camera, so you can toss the camera this way and that easily and securely. It can help balance the camera in your hand with heavy/long lenses. Like Randy, I use its added area on the camera body to prop and steady the body. But of course its weight adds to the strain of holding heavy gear. With frequent use you build up strength to match, though I do sometimes wish for relief from so much weight of gear. Not having to be nervous about running out of battery juice is one less worry when you're away from the plug. It's not a critical piece of gear, but it has the potential to enhance your shooting performance and experience.

Neil

divamum

For me it depends on the camera. I loved the size of the xsi for its lightness, but it was a little small for my hands for long shoots; with the grip, it fit perfectly. I actually only ever used it with one battery, but it was nice to have the option of loading it up with 2.

The 7d already fits my hands well, so I haven't bothered witha grip and doubt that I will - it's just more weight to lug around.

Photoskipper

What is the disadvantage of the grip?

I do not use the grip at all. the main reason to pick the 5D rather than the 1Ds or 1d was the size and weight. Adding another pound on the body with the L-lens is not easy for my small hands and thin arms. The extra inch height will not fit into most of the camera bags. The single battery can last for over 500 shoots and good for a day on the road. I change memory cards more often than the battery.

There are many shooters holding the XTi, XSi or other small camera body with the grip in order to make it look big. Many shops offer the grip as package to increase their sales revenue. Most of the consumers does not know why they put on the grip.

I just bought the grip for my old 5d last year after the MKII launched. The grip increase the size of the 5D and impress the clients who want to see a "professional" photographer in their events.

The grip may only be useful for the long trips. It allows the camera to run on AA batteries rather than the rechargeable Lithum battery in the remote area.

rickp

I have another question based on a lot of the same comments made here.

Added power seems to be a reason for some to add the grip. Now photoskipper made some good points. One of them the amount of pictures taken on one battery and the other the look of the camera.

How many shots are some of you taking that you're benefiting from the added battery/grip? Are you going through a full battery on a regular basis? I know if using the pop up flash that will drain a battery rather quickly, but if not then what amount are we taking about?

Not to digress too much I have another question. Let me start by saying that I'm not a pro photographer at all, I just enjoy doing it. The reason I ask is because i'm curious of how many people but on a grip just for the look of it?

I'm not one to make assumptions and loath people that do, but let me add this. My occupation is guns and the use of them in tactical situations. I'm former military having worked with Special Operations, and now I do it as a civilian working for different government agencies. As such, I spend a lot of time training. Some of the training courses allow non military or law enforcement individuals to train with us as long as they have a the right permits and proof of other training.
It never ceases to amaze me how many people just put crap on their guns just because it looks cool and makes them feel like Rambo or a high speed Navy SEAL. Ironically, it's these same people that can't hit the side of a barn from the inside. They have no clue how rediculous they look when when their lack of skill shows yet they have every possible accutrament hanging from their body or gun.

So i'm curious, are a lot of these clowns in the photography community too?

I have no issues with using something that helps the task at hand, but to add gear just because it looks cool is idiotic.
I also don't believe that perceptions are reality. Just because one looks like a pro doesn't mean one is a pro, but if it helps you get your foot in the door, then more power to you.

Sorry didn't mean to digress from the subject or hijack the threat, even though it's my thread. It's a touchy subject with me. !!!!

R.

hgernhardtjr

rickp wrote: »

It never ceases to amaze me how many people just put crap on their guns just because it looks cool and makes them feel like Rambo or a high speed Navy SEAL. ... So i'm curious, are a lot of these clowns in the photography community too?

Definitely!

But accessories can be very useful for some depending on what the user's specific situation is — while virtually useless or almost so for others.

I rarely use a grip with my 5dMkII (its big enough and heavy enough and well balanced already), but have one I purchased at a give-away price I was unable to pass up on. And the one time being able to use AA cells more than paid for it.

But would I recommend one? Probably not ... unless the price is VERY right ... and it does make one "look" more professional like Photoskipper said! Would I repurchase the grip given the same price I paid? I think not ... I would purchase a couple of the new generic "chipped" lpe6 batteries with the money instead. And put one in each bag so I never misplace the spare again! But I won't get rid of the grip I have ... just ... in ... case ....... Then again, sometimes I like being one of the "clowns" you mention!!! Toys! More TOYS!

gecko0

rickp wrote: »

I have another question based on a lot of the same comments made here.

Added power seems to be a reason for some to add the grip. Now photoskipper made some good points. One of them the amount of pictures taken on one battery and the other the look of the camera.

How many shots are some of you taking that you're benefiting from the added battery/grip? Are you going through a full battery on a regular basis? I know if using the pop up flash that will drain a battery rather quickly, but if not then what amount are we taking about?

Not to digress too much I have another question. Let me start by saying that I'm not a pro photographer at all, I just enjoy doing it. The reason I ask is because i'm curious of how many people but on a grip just for the look of it?

I'm not one to make assumptions and loath people that do, but let me add this. My occupation is guns and the use of them in tactical situations. I'm former military having worked with Special Operations, and now I do it as a civilian working for different government agencies. As such, I spend a lot of time training. Some of the training courses allow non military or law enforcement individuals to train with us as long as they have a the right permits and proof of other training.
It never ceases to amaze me how many people just put crap on their guns just because it looks cool and makes them feel like Rambo or a high speed Navy SEAL. Ironically, it's these same people that can't hit the side of a barn from the inside. They have no clue how rediculous they look when when their lack of skill shows yet they have every possible accutrament hanging from their body or gun.

So i'm curious, are a lot of these clowns in the photography community too?

I have no issues with using something that helps the task at hand, but to add gear just because it looks cool is idiotic.
I also don't believe that perceptions are reality. Just because one looks like a pro doesn't mean one is a pro, but if it helps you get your foot in the door, then more power to you.

Sorry didn't mean to digress from the subject or hijack the threat, even though it's my thread. It's a touchy subject with me. !!!!

R.

I have a Zeikos grip for my 7D and like the ergonomics of it. I think it adds stability/balance to the camera, especially when shooting with a larger or heavier lens lke the 70-200 2.8 IS. That plus portrait orientation convenience makes it a winner for me. You make a good point though...just because it makes the camera look "pro", that's definitely not a reason to do it.

I haven't ever used up a fully charged battery in one day either, so the extended battery life is not a huge factor for me.

One potential negative to a grip would be when using the R-Strap. This was discussed in a different thread, when talking about the strength/weakness of the tripod mount. I do not use the grip with the R-Strap for that reason...I simply do not trust the grip's small screw to support the camera's weight the same as I trust the R-Strap connector directly on the camera. Too many points of failure then.

NeilL

I had a Nikon CoolPix 5700 before I got my Canon gear. The battery would drain very quickly. It became a worry in the back of my mind, especially when I was travelling. When I got my Canon gear I definitely wanted to relieve that worry, so I got the grip. I have never looked close to running out of juice, and that's the way I like it. Perhaps one day you guys without a grip will have a battery go bad right when it's critical to keep shooting, and then life will teach you the truth of avoiding rather than tempting a problem.

The weapons poseurs might have a point. Aggressive display is universally the first tactical move to threat or predation of every life form. Aggression proper is consistently avoided if possible, perhaps mainly because of the probability of injury whether you are the defender or aggressor. So the weapons accoutrements some people display might do the trick of avoiding a real fight and the unwanted consequences. Once again, avoidance rather than an unknown and probably nasty situation. I think this principal is taught as a foremost and fundamental one in all training for military, police and security personnel. It doesn't count that you are a crack shot if you are wearing a bullet between your eyes, because the guy who shot you didn't know you were so good! If you can't hit the side of a barn from inside, the need to avoid is even more poignant!

So, looking bad can be very useful, and just so can be looking good. If you are in reality a very good photographer, but people are judging you negatively on your small gear, how can this be desirable? People in general tend to be superficial and instinctual when they don't know better, and how could it be otherwise? If you are in the marketplace, in competition with a mob, you had better at least be as attractive as the rest on first impressions. You can still be better than you appear. "Mehr sein als scheinen".

To oversimplify about such things as these is to go wrong.

Get a grip! Last longer, and look powerful and superior. Your pictures will also improve, I'm sure!

Neil

rickp

Photoskipper wrote: »

The weapons poseurs might have a point. Aggressive display is universally the first tactical move to threat or predation of every life form. Aggression proper is consistently avoided if possible, perhaps mainly because of the probability of injury whether you are the defender or aggressor. So the weapons accoutrements some people display might do the trick of avoiding a real fight and the unwanted consequences. Once again, avoidance rather than an unknown and probably nasty situation. I think this principal is taught as a foremost and fundamental one in all training for military, police and security personnel. It doesn't count that you are a crack shot if you are wearing a bullet between your eyes, because the guy who shot you didn't know you were so good! If you can't hit the side of a barn from inside, the need to avoid is even more poignant!

So, looking bad can be very useful, and just so can be looking good. If you are in reality a very good photographer, but people are judging you negatively on your small gear, how can this be desirable? People in general tend to be superficial and instinctual when they don't know better, and how could it be otherwise? If you are in the marketplace, in competition with a mob, you had better at least be as attractive as the rest on first impressions. You can still be better than you appear. "Mehr sein als scheinen".

To oversimplify about such things as these is to go wrong.

Get a grip! Last longer, and look powerful and superior. Your pictures will also improve, I'm sure!

Neil

It was late when I read this reply, so I'm editing my response.
I can't tell if this whole statement is sarcastic, and doesn't make any sense. Anyway!

R.

NeilL

rickp wrote: »

Again not to digress, but non of the points yuo made are being dispalyed, strust me. It'a all about the cool look and the buck stops there.

R.

Think you missed the target poster for this quote!!??

Neil

Photoskipper

We are just the overgrown boys - still enjoying the toys. My teacher told long time ago - the difference between father and son is the price of their toys.

adding more deco on the toys are very common and fun. Look around the sport cars and fashion clothings, not all accessories are functional.

Weight vs function is critical. showing the M1 tank in front of your enemy is powerful but the logistic to bring it over 1000 miles would kill the team before it arrives.

Changing the battery in DSLR is not so challenge. I keep one or two fully charged spare battery in my pocket and ready to use in seconds. The last bar on the battery indicator allows me to hit another 100 times on the shutter, it is enough for me to plan when to change the battery.

I prefer to bring one more lens or flash rather than the grip. It may be more useful.

InsuredDisaster

I also have a mixed opinion on grips. On the one hand, I think it is all about looks and I've been guilty of desire in the past to be sure. Then you've got people (in the prime lens debate threads) extolling the virtues of primes and saying how light they are. Of course, they post a photo of Prime XX on their camera and they've got some massive grip on their camera, so I'm not sure they are really going after the weight savings. . . . Another negative on the grips is that they are another failure point. I've had corrion build up and then the camera starts working erratically until it can be cleaned. This has occurred at very bad times.

On the other hand, I do like grips for the extra purchase on the camera, and the vertical shutter release. Being able to run a battery down to empty and then switch it while having a second one in the camera.

For me though, I often don't use the grip for two reasons: No room in the bag with everything else, and the huge grip makes a big camera already bigger and freaks people out. The "pro look" is working against me.

rt2photo

I always find grip conversations odd, because ever since I put a third party grip on my XTI (and now have a Canon grip on my 7D) I can't imagine being without it.

Sure, it makes the camera heavier, bigger, harder to store in a bag. Maybe it puts people off with the "pro" look - but maybe it makes you look more "pro" with it's look too.

For me though - I've never, ever run out of battery power during a single shoot. Never. Having portrait buttons and controls is something I couldn't imagine being without either - I shot 4400 photos in 3 hours yesterday (98% in portrait) - I can't imagine doing that without a grip!

So, different people have different needs. Don't dismiss them because your needs don't lean towards a grip. I for one have never paid more than $20 for a tripod, doesn't mean I dismiss expensive tripods.

SamirD

rickp wrote: »

So my question is, what's the big advantage to using the battery grip on a Canon SLR?

Big advantage? Probably the main purpose of it--extended battery life. That it helps with vertical oriented shooting and overall camera handling is a bonus.

I have a battery grip on my old Olympus e-20n. And after years of using it without one and having to carry extra AAs, I love the ability to not worry about power.

Kevinhooa

There's def a lot of pros and cons to this piece of equipment, and eveyone else has made good points, so I'll only add this one thing.

One thing to think about if you shoot in really cold weather is battery life. If you shoot with a grip with 2 batteries inside, you better have 2 extra for when the cold zaps the life out of them. 2 in the camera, 2 warming in your pocket ready to swap out. Without the battery grip, you really only need 2 batteries instead of 4.

Jane B.

Kevinhooa wrote: »

There's def a lot of pros and cons to this piece of equipment, and eveyone else has made good points, so I'll only add this one thing.

One thing to think about if you shoot in really cold weather is battery life. If you shoot with a grip with 2 batteries inside, you better have 2 extra for when the cold zaps the life out of them. 2 in the camera, 2 warming in your pocket ready to swap out. Without the battery grip, you really only need 2 batteries instead of 4.

You do not need to have a battery in both compartments of the grip! One battery in the grip works fine and still gives you the advantage of more comfortable portrait shooting. Thus, you DO NOT need more batteries in the cold than the person shooting without a grip!

Kevinhooa

Jane B. wrote: »

You do not need to have a battery in both compartments of the grip! One battery in the grip works fine and still gives you the advantage of more comfortable portrait shooting. Thus, you DO NOT need more batteries in the cold than the person shooting without a grip!

Ah ha. That I did not know. Thanks for the tip.

SamirD

Jane B. wrote: »

You do not need to have a battery in both compartments of the grip! One battery in the grip works fine and still gives you the advantage of more comfortable portrait shooting. Thus, you DO NOT need more batteries in the cold than the person shooting without a grip!

Yeah, I was going to add that, but figured someone else would. The batteries are used in series, not parallel, so a grip saves you the inconvenience of changing out batteries as well as giving you the extra comfort when shooting vertical.

NeilL

SamirD wrote: »

The batteries are used in series, not parallel

Can that be quite right? It's somewhat mysterious. When I recharge the batteries the one that's been in the left slot is always more depleted (though it's never been empty), but the right side one is not still fully charged. Both are depleted to different levels. That could be the way that batteries behave in series, if so you are right!

Neil

SamirD

I only had personal experience with a Canon grip once over a weekend when I rented one. And how I figured this out was when I removed both batteries to charge them and only one of them needed it. I think I also recall putting back the good one, and then later trying to turn the camera on and it did.

rt2photo

My 7D gives me a usage meter, both my batteries are typically equal in number of shots taken, and % of power used.

NeilL

rt2photo wrote: »

My 7D gives me a usage meter, both my batteries are typically equal in number of shots taken, and % of power used.

Well, that's intriguing!

Neil

SamirD

rt2photo wrote: »

My 7D gives me a usage meter, both my batteries are typically equal in number of shots taken, and % of power used.

Is this a different grip than the one for the 50D? That's what I rented.

rt2photo

SamirD wrote: »

Is this a different grip than the one for the 50D? That's what I rented.

It is - I use the BG-E7 which appears to be 7D specific.

It *definitely* uses batteries in parallel

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-BG-E7-Battery-Digital-Camera/dp/B002P3LD88/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1287671892&sr=8-1

SamirD

rt2photo wrote: »

It is - I use the BG-E7 which appears to be 7D specific.

It *definitely* uses batteries in parallel

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-BG-E7-Battery-Digital-Camera/dp/B002P3LD88/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1287671892&sr=8-1

Good to know!