What Is A Vertical Battery Grip?.
What Is a Vertical Battery Grip? And Why Do You Need One?
Introduction
A vertical battery grip is an accessory for SLR/DSLR (and occasionally other cameras) that extends the battery life of the camera and adds a vertical grip with an extra shutter release (and other controls), making it easier to shoot in portrait mode.
Vertical battery grips are very popular among professional and amateur photographers alike, and for good reason. They offer a number of advantages over shooting without one, including:
- Extended battery life: Vertical battery grips can hold up to two additional batteries, which can double or even triple the battery life of your camera. This is especially useful for long shoots or when shooting in cold weather, when batteries tend to drain more quickly.
- Improved handling: Vertical battery grips make it more comfortable and secure to hold your camera, especially in portrait mode. This is because the grip provides a larger surface area for your hand to grip.
- Additional controls: Most vertical battery grips have duplicate controls for the shutter release, AF-ON button, and other important camera functions. This makes it easier to control your camera when shooting in portrait mode, without having to change your grip.
Benefits of using a vertical battery grip
Here are some of the specific benefits of using a vertical battery grip:
- Increased battery life: As mentioned above, vertical battery grips can hold up to two additional batteries, which can double or even triple the battery life of your camera. This is especially useful for long shoots or when shooting in cold weather, when batteries tend to drain more quickly.
- Improved handling: Vertical battery grips make it more comfortable and secure to hold your camera, especially in portrait mode. This is because the grip provides a larger surface area for your hand to grip. This can also help to reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images.
- Additional controls: Most vertical battery grips have duplicate controls for the shutter release, AF-ON button, and other important camera functions. This makes it easier to control your camera when shooting in portrait mode, without having to change your grip. This can be especially helpful when shooting sports or other fast-paced action.
- Better balance: Vertical battery grips can help to improve the balance of your camera, especially when using long lenses or teleconverters. This can make it easier to hold your camera steady and get sharper images.
- More comfortable shooting: Vertical battery grips can make it more comfortable to shoot for long periods of time, especially when shooting in portrait mode. This is because the grip provides a more natural grip for your hand.
Choosing a vertical battery grip
When choosing a vertical battery grip, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- Compatibility: Make sure to choose a vertical battery grip that is compatible with your camera model.
- Features: Some vertical battery grips have additional features, such as weather sealing, built-in monopods, or even additional battery compartments. Consider which features are important to you and choose a grip accordingly.
- Price: Vertical battery grips can range in price from around $100 to $300 or more. Set a budget before you start shopping and choose a grip that fits your needs and budget.
How to use a vertical battery grip
Once you have chosen a vertical battery grip, it is easy to use. Simply attach it to the bottom of your camera and insert the additional batteries. You can then use the duplicate controls on the grip to control your camera in portrait mode.
Here are a few tips for using a vertical battery grip:
- Make sure the grip is properly attached to your camera before you start shooting. You don't want to accidentally drop your camera because the grip wasn't attached securely.
- Use the duplicate controls on the grip when shooting in portrait mode. This will make it easier to control your camera without having to change your grip.
- Keep the grip clean and dry. This will help to extend the life of the grip and protect your camera from damage.
Conclusion
Vertical battery grips are a great way to extend the battery life of your camera, improve its handling, and make it more comfortable to shoot for long periods of time. If you are serious about photography, a vertical battery grip is a must-have accessory.
Additional tips for using a vertical battery grip
Here are a few additional tips for using a vertical battery grip:
- Use the vertical battery grip when shooting in portrait mode. This will make it easier to hold your camera steady and get sharper images.
- Use the vertical battery grip when shooting with heavy lenses. The additional grip will help to distribute the weight of the lens and make it more comfortable to hold.
- **Use the vertical battery grip when shooting in cold