Canon BG-E8 Battery Grip
(The Ultimate CaNON Camera Accessory)
This post gives you all the details you need about the Canon BG-E8 battery grip. That includes the pluses and minuses of using one, as well as its compatibility with the Canon cameras if works with.
Canon BG-E8 Battery Grip is fully compatible with the Canon T5i, Canon T4i, the Canon T3i, and the Canon T2i.
These cameras are also known as the EOS 700D, 650D, 600D, and the 550D. The BG-E8 attaches to the bottom of your camera.
The BG-E8 includes the desired vertical shutter release button to make using your camera in the "portrait" or vertical orientation easier on your wrists.
It also has the mode wheel to give you ability to adjust the camera functions. When you turn the power button on the grip to it's off position, the controls on the camera are active.
The photo below shows the two magazines that can be used with this Canon grip. The BGM-E8A is for use with the AA batteries. The BGM-E8L is for the LP-E8 batteries.
This grip will accept 2 high-capacity lithium ion LP-E8 batteries, giving you twice the staying power as without the BG-E8. It can also be loaded up with 6 AA batteries if you use the included BGM-E8A battery magazine.
Some people say that using one of these battery grips make you feel like you are using a Canon EOS 1D or 1Ds series camera. With the 1D and 1Ds series of cameras, you don't have the option of removing the grip and lightening your load.
With the T4i, T3i, and T2i matched up with the battery grip, you can remove your battery grip whenever you want. That's flexibility that is great to have.
This Canon grip has built-in camera control buttons that make it easier to shoot vertical compositions. This includes a shutter release, an AE/FE lock, as well as a Main Dial control wheel. To install the battery grip, you first remove the battery compartment cover along with the battery. Then slide the grip into place and secure it with the tripod-mounting screw.
The bottom of the battery grip has a tripod mount to be used in the regular way. One or two LP-E8 batteries can be inserted into the BGM-E8L battery magazine and inserted into the grip.The biggest argument between supporters and detractors is the added size and weight when using the Canon BG-E8 Battery Grip.
Extra battery power is also very valuable to have if you are using one of the Canon Speedlites, like the 580 EX II. If you have invested a lot of money already in a quality DSLR or speedlite, you don't ever want to miss out on a photo opportunity because of a lack of power.
The best Canon camera accessories are a big investment. Don't get me wrong. You are worth it and you deserve it. It's just a big decision on whether to buy Canon or look for a cheap alternative.
Where to Buy a Canon BG-E8 Battery Grip or a Cheaper Alternative
In the past I bought my Canon cameras and accessories from three on-line retailers, Amazon and Adorama and Ebay. Now I use Amazon, Adorama and for used gear I really like KEH (see their adv. on this page).
As an Amazon affiliate Canon Camera Geek receives a small commission from qualifying purchases, at NO added cost to you.
The links above are affiliate links, meaning I receive a small commision should you decide to purchase from one of those vendors. There's no cost to you-just a little financial thank you to me from those vendors.
Have a blast. Shoot your Canon!
Bruce Lovelace is the publisher of Canon Camera Geek. Read more about him on the About Page. He also publishes how to articles and camera gear reviews at the Photography Tips website.
View some of Bruce's photos on Instagram and Flickr. Join the tribe of followers on YouTube. Bruce also runs photo workshops and provides 1 on 1 digital photography coaching.
You might like these
Canon BG-E5 Battery Grip. Will it Work With Your Canon Rebel Camera
Compatibility table. The Canon BG-E5 Battery Grip fits the Canon 450D, 500D, 1000D, also known as the Canon Rebel XSi, Canon EOS T1i, Canon EOS Rebel XS
How to Find a Canon BG-ED3 Battery Grip For Your 10D That's Compatible
The old geezer, the Canon BG-ED3 Battery Grip fits the Canon 10D camera as well as the old-timers the D30 and D60 Canon cameras
Canon Battery Grips Compatibility Table. Attaching, Removing, Charging
Canon battery grips have several desirable functions and many consider them the best canon camera accessory to own.
Canon BG-E7 Battery Grip. Compatibility Guide to the 7D Canon Camera
Compatibility chart for the Canon BG-E7 Battery Grip. Best price and alternatives. Get more shooting power and better balance with longer lenses.
Canon BG-E14 Battery Grip-Best Alternative For Canon EOS 70D 80D 90D
The Canon EOS 70D accessory that provides double the battery power and vertical shooting conrols is the Canon BG-E14 Battery Grip
Canon BG-E9 Battery Grip. Form Function and Fantastic Fun Accessory
The Canon BG-E9 Battery Grip is made to go with the Canon EOS Rebel 60D camera. Here is the good Bad and Ugly on this Canon camera grip.
KEH: WHERE I BUY CANON GEAR
"I've found that the condition of the used equipment from KEH is excellent and a whole lot cheaper than buying new" - Bruce, the Canon Camera Geek
Where to Buy an Canon BG-E8 Battery Grip
Canon t3iLP-E8 Battery
LP-E8 Battery Charger Substitute
Recent Articles
-
Canon 50mm Lenses-Simple Comparison of EF 50mm f/1.2 vs. F/1.4 vs. f/2
Apr 25, 24 09:54 AM
Which one is best for you? Here is a simplified comparison of the various Canon 50mm lenses, an interesting accessory for the serious digital photographer -
Ditch the Default: Top Alternatives to the Canon 17-40 Lens
Apr 25, 24 09:43 AM
Not sure about investing in a Canon EF17-40mm L lens? It's a great lens, but is it worth it? What is the best choice for a good Canon 17-40 alternative? -
Canon T3i Accessories-The Must Have T3i Gadgets And The Like To Have
Apr 02, 24 02:02 PM
Great accessories for your Rebel Camera? Here are some ideas for Canon T3i Accessories that will help you improve your photography with your Rebel camera -
Power Up Your Photography-Top Alternatives to the Canon 270EX II Flash
Apr 02, 24 12:13 PM
Unleash Your Flash Potential: Better, Cheaper Options Than the Canon 270EX II. Exploring Powerful Canon 270EX II Alternatives -
Canon EF 16-35mm f/4 vs f/2.8: Focal Face-Off! Which Wide-Angle Wins?
Mar 26, 24 01:37 PM
There are 3 modern versions but which Canon 16-35mm lens is best. Helpful side by side comparison of the specs that matter. Helpful Canon EF 16-35mm lens guide -
Is The Canon 50mm f/1.4 Lens Any Good. First Impression and How to Use
Mar 26, 24 09:45 AM
Canon's Nifty Fifty: Friend or Foe? A Photographer's First Impressions of the 50mm f/1.4 My review with sample images. Is the Canon 50mm f/1.4 Lens Any Good
Canon t2i Without Grip
Canon t3i With BG-E8 Battery Grip Attached
Canon t4i Without Grip