What's a battery grip and why should you choose one?

A battery grip is an accessory you mount to the bottom of your SLR camera. It's a multifunctional addition. The battery grip functions as an extra grip on 1 side, so you have more grip on your camera. In addition, the controls of your camera become easier thanks to the extra control buttons on it. But the most important element of a battery grip is the space for extra batteries. Most grips have space for 1 or 2 batteries.

If you take many photos in a row during a long photo session, a battery grip is a good solution. Thanks to the extra grip on the bottom, you can hold your camera in a natural way when you keep it straight. With the extra control buttons, you can easily adjust the settings. It also provides more grip to firmly hold your camera. The extra batteries are useful for longer photo sessions as well. You won't have to switch batteries during the photo session as a result.

Not every battery grip is suitable for every SLR camera, so check carefully if you have the type that can be mounted to your camera. Usually, you can choose from grips of your camera brand or other brands. Many battery grips have a disadvantage, which is that it makes your camera heavier and larger. So be sure to check whether your camera still fits in your camera bag.