Digital SLR Cameras & Photography For Dummies
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Most digital cameras accept standard AA batteries, but you have options in what kind of AA batteries you use. Disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries, and even battery packs can get your camera snapping photos. You just need to decide what kind of battery would work best for you:

  • Alkaline batteries: These traditional batteries usually have a pretty short life in a digital camera.

  • Lithium batteries: Tend to last longer than other battery types. They also handle cold weather better.

  • Rechargeable batteries: Choose nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries if you can because they have more power, are safer for the environment, and have several technical advantages over other types. You can also use lithium-ion (Li-Ion) rechargeable batteries, which usually last for a couple hundred shots. This figure shows both types of rechargeable batteries.

    Of course, rechargeable batteries need a battery charger. You can use a battery charger that plugs into a standard wall socket or one that’s solar-powered.

    Power your digital camera with a NiMH rechargeable battery (left) or a Li-Ion one (right).
    Power your digital camera with a NiMH rechargeable battery (left) or a Li-Ion one (right).
  • Battery pack: Some cameras can be fitted with an add-on battery pack (as shown in this figure) that fits under the camera body and holds two more batteries (increasing the length of your batteries’ life).

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