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.
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