Do you use a Battery Grip? (Page 3): Yes, I use and used it for all my cameras either the battery grip or at the older ones a motor drive. For me it is a better handling with the grip...

thott Loc: GERMANY, Hessen

Yes, I use and used it for all my cameras either
the battery grip or at the older ones a motor drive.

For me it is a better handling with the grip, more
shots due to additional accu capacity and the
possibility to use normal batteries.

Ron 717 Loc: Pennsylvania

photoman022 wrote:

I bought Neewer battery grips for my three Nikons.... (show quote)

That is a common complaint with the knockoff grips, loose fitting, battery drain. I have not read of anyone having issues with Nikon manufactured grips. I use a Nikon grip and have experienced no issues at all. I have large hands and the grip offers me a more comfortable handle on the camera.

ralphc4176 Loc: Conyers, GA

Years ago, when shooting film, I had a motor drive on my Minolta SLR camera and loved it. Now that I'm shooting digital, I don't use a battery grip. I always have one spare battery with me, but, so far, I've never had to fall back on the spare battery before having an opportunity to recharge.

MikeMck Loc: Southern Maryland on the Bay

jrichter wrote:

Are any of you using a battery grip on your DSLR, and do you find that it improves your handling of the camera (I am not asking about its ability to increase number of pictures being taken before battery change)?

I don't use grips simply because with two batteries installed, the camera becomes too heavy. I have never run out of battery power, I carry an extra in my pocket just in case.

DirtFarmer Loc: Escaped from the NYC area, back to MA

For my first DSLR, a D200, I got a battery grip. I thought it was great and I left it on the camera all the time. I really liked the portrait orientation controls. The extended battery life was also nice.

The only problem I ever had with it was that it got a bit flaky after a few months of use. The problem was that the screw that held it to the camera would come loose. Tightening the screw restored it to normal function. (No tools needed -- it was a hand operated screw).

Since then most of my cameras have had a built-in grip. I get the vertical controls, but not the paralleled batteries. I keep a spare battery in my bag so it's not a problem. The only camera I have without a grip is the D800e. I use it primarily on a tripod in the studio so I don't really need the grip.

I did not notice a problem with weight. My lenses are contributing a lot more to the weight of the camera than the grip ever did.

NikonJohn Loc: Indiana U.S.A.

Yes, I put one on my Nikon D300, initially for increased battery capacity due to using a GPS, but found that I liked the extra grip it provided. Not just using it vertically but also when carrying it (I dont use a strap, cramps my style). So when I picked up a used D700 I moved the grip to it. Then ended up buying a second one to keep one on the D300. I realize they are not for everyone but I definitely like it.
Not sure about Canon or others but I personally would not recommend the third party grips. I bought a Zeikos (to save money, but ended up wasting it) after a little research finding many people happy with them. I found it difficult to get the AA batteries in and out of the holder and the plastic just didnt seem all that solid to me (plus it is not environmentally sealed like the Nikon is), so I got the Nikon one and just havent taken it off.
So... bottom line is I really like my grips! :)
I also had motor drives on my F3, FM2 and FE2 film cameras.

JoAnneK01 Loc: Lahaina, Hawaii

I don't like the extra weight it adds to the camera. In film days, I was much younger, the weight was not a problem and loved the fast wind it allowed. With digital it doesn't add that advantage.

Gifted One Loc: S. E. Idaho

I have read all of the posts and my reason for using the grip which is OEM is a little different from what I have read. I also have smaller hands and first blush would think I would want a smallish camera body. I like the feel of a Pro-body. So the added grip feels correct to me.

I SHOOT A LOT OF VERTICLS. With this orientation it feels correct as the added control makes the handling better.

The extra weight balances the glass better than with out a grip attached.

I try to shoot off a pod but also try to quickly exploit the OP. Being able to quickly move from frame to frame is important.

I use OptechUSA Prostrap strung up from the right camera lug to the right grip luge. I carry my camera from my right shoulder with my hand on the camera. Makes for a fast draw. I have neck issues and can't carry it over my neck. If I need a more stable carry I cross body.

The whole issue is so very personal. This works for me and has been an easy fit.

I am looking to adding an another system the will be smaller.

J. R.

NikonJohn Loc: Indiana U.S.A.

Gifted One wrote:

I have read all of the posts and my reason for usi... (show quote)

I totally agree with your first paragraph, I also have small hands but just like the extra grip.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

jrichter wrote:

Are any of you using a battery grip on your DSLR, and do you find that it improves your handling of the camera (I am not asking about its ability to increase number of pictures being taken before battery change)?

I had a grip on one camera, but I sold the camera and grip. I've never used up a battery in one shooting, so I didn't need the extra power, but I liked the ability to shoot vertically with the controls in the same place. On the downside, I didn't like the increase in size and weight. I don't plan to get another.

juicesqueezer Loc: Okeechobee, Florida

I have used grips on all my camera's. Makes holding them easier and you have the added feature in portrait mode, which I think, really helps. I have used knock offs and OEM grips and never had a problem with any of them. I now have a D3 and feel right at home.

twillsol Loc: St. Louis, MO

jrichter wrote:

Are any of you using a battery grip on your DSLR, and do you find that it improves your handling of the camera (I am not asking about its ability to increase number of pictures being taken before battery change)?

Yes, on both my cameras (D300s & D800). Improves grip, especially for vertical, portrait shots. Extra battery life is ok, but not necessary.

Tracy B. Loc: Indiana

Yes. I use one on my 70d. I have small hand, but like the extra weight and feel.

magpix Loc: St. Michaels, MD

I bought the factory grips for both my D200 and D300 and after using them on and off for a couple of years, I've decided that their benefits do not outweigh their added bulk and weight. Since I do a lot of traveling, hiking and street photography, I prefer a smaller body. I now own a D750 and love its smaller size which fits my hand perfectly, so I didn't buy a grip. The D750 also feels comfortable and is easy to use in its vertical (portrait) position. I still shoot with the D300S and never attach the grip. If possible, I would recommend that you try using your camera with a grip before you buy it and see if it feels right. Then decide whether it really helps you to handle the body and use its function buttons in the portrait position. By the way, I think the prices for the factory grips are outrageous.

Ponce Loc: Ft. Lauderdale Fl

I've been shooting since the early 70's and got so used to motor drives on my Nikons thru the years that I don't feel comfortable without one or now days a battery pack and for me who shoots a lot of verticals it's a blessing. I even put one on my D40x while the D2H, D3 and D4 don't need them.