What is a Camera Battery Grip?
A camera battery grip — sometimes called a battery grip camera attachment or vertical grip — is an accessory that mounts to the base of your DSLR or mirrorless camera body. It serves two primary purposes: housing one or two additional batteries to extend shooting time, and adding a second set of shooting controls optimised for portrait (vertical) orientation. Compatible battery grips are designed to match specific camera models, integrating seamlessly with your camera's existing controls and battery system. Whether you shoot Canon, Nikon, Sony or Fujifilm, there is likely a dedicated grip available for your camera body.
You know the feeling. You are out sightseeing with your camera and can't believe all of the amazing photo opportunities you have been lucky enough to capture today. With plenty of daylight left to enjoy, you notice the low battery symbol flashing on your camera's LCD screen. The panic sets in; "Did I remember to recharge my spare battery?" What if we told you there was an easier way to enjoy extended shooting times. Enter the world of the camera battery grip.
Why use a battery grip?
As a camera battery grip allows you to hold an additional battery to the one already in your camera, it extends your shooting times so you can take more photos and videos. While a battery grip is handy for any photographer who wants to get the most out of their camera, it is a must-have for professional photographers. For more gear that no photographer should be without, explore our guide to essential camera accessories every photographer needs. After all, you have a limited time with a model or at an event, so you must capitalise.
Apart from extended shooting times a battery grip offers additional advancements to your camera. A battery grip will generally include an extra set of key camera settings, including a shutter button, mode select buttons and more. Why would you need these additional buttons and dials? While modern mirrorless cameras are ergonomic and comfortable for full-featured shooting, this is usually best experienced in the horizontal orientation. Once you turn the camera to shoot in the vertical or portrait orientation, things get a little harder. Thanks to the additional settings offered by a battery grip, you can feel just as comfortable and confident to shoot in any orientation.
One of our favourite compositional tips is to experiment with different perspectives and angles. Our beginner's guide to photography composition is a great place to start exploring these ideas further. This is easier to manage with the stability provided by a battery grip.
Battery Grips vs Camera Grips
A camera grip, like a battery grip is an accessory designed to enhance your photography experience, but serves a different purpose. A camera grip is primarily for comfort and stability, providing a more ergonomic way to hold your camera, especially for extended shooting sessions. It often features a textured surface and a comfortable shape to reduce hand strain and is usually made for smaller format cameras that don't have a pronounced grip. A camera grip does not have space to store an extra battery or additional camera settings.
Battery Grip FAQs
Does a battery grip increase battery life? Absolutely! And while you can achieve longer shooting times by packing a spare camera battery, a battery grip holds this spare for you, making it easier to remember and saving you the time and effort of pausing to reload.
How Many Batteries does a battery grip hold? With space to store an additional battery, a battery grip allows your camera to house two camera batteries in total.
Are battery grips universal? Unfortunately, there is not a one-size-fits-all option when it comes to battery grips. Not all cameras accept the same battery, and cameras feature different body shapes.
Can you use a battery grip with only one battery? Yes, you can use a battery grip with only one battery. This is useful when one battery needs recharging but you want to continue shooting.
Embrace the power of a battery grip today
A battery grip is a valuable accessory for any photographer who wants to shoot for longer periods without worrying about running out of battery. Whether you're searching for a Battery grip Canon or Sony, there's a battery grip out there to suit your needs at Ted's.
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Camera Battery Grip Advantages and Disadvantages
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of a camera battery grip helps you decide if one suits your shooting style.
Advantages:
- Extended battery life — double or triple your shooting sessions without stopping to swap batteries.
- Improved portrait shooting ergonomics — a dedicated shutter button and controls make vertical shooting far more comfortable.
- Better balance — larger lenses sit more naturally on a grip-equipped body.
- Professional appearance — a battery grip gives your kit a robust, reassuring look for client shoots.
Disadvantages:
- Added size and weight — the grip makes your camera noticeably larger and heavier.
- Cost — genuine manufacturer grips can be a significant additional investment.
- Reduced portability — less ideal for travel or street photography where discretion matters.
Are Battery Grips Worth It?
So, are battery grips worth it? For most photographers who shoot professionally or for extended sessions, the answer is yes. If you photograph weddings, events, sport or wildlife — where missing a shot due to a flat battery is not an option — a battery grip is an essential investment. If you shoot weddings in particular, our ultimate wedding photography guide covers all the gear and preparation you need. Portrait and studio photographers benefit enormously from the improved vertical-orientation ergonomics. To make the most of those vertical shots, take a look at our tips on how to pose your models for perfect portraits. Casual photographers or those who prefer a compact, lightweight kit may find the added bulk unnecessary. The good news is that third-party battery grips offer a cost-effective alternative to manufacturer options without sacrificing core functionality, making them worth it for photographers on a tighter budget too.