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Like any camera, a digital camera runs on battery power. The type of batteries you need depends on your camera. Some models use a custom battery supplied only by the camera manufacturer, and others use standard, AA-size batteries. You can even source for third-party (OEM) batteries that can last as long and are cheaper. Although digital cameras use up battery juice at a rapid pace, it is possible to extend battery life and keep your camera expenses in check.

Here are some tips on how to enable your batteries to last longer. They are not difficult to learn, and I hope you will benefit from these tips.

First we shall look at the components of digital cameras that use up battery life heavily:

Flash. I consider this the biggest user of power. Each time you fire the flash, some battery power is consumed. It is not surprising as lots of energy is needed to illuminate an entire hall or room. One of the tips I will be sharing is that you should not use flash unless necessary.

LCD Screen. Unlike cameras of the past, digital cameras incorporate a LCD screen so that you can preview your composition before you take the shot. Contrary to what people think, I do not consider this to be the most power thirsty feature in digital cameras compared to flash. Of course, the frequency of usage plays a part. A tip I can share is that you can turn the screen off to conserve power when you are not taking any shot or when walking around.

Digital Zoom. When you zoom in and out, you use battery power to drive the motor. To avoid this, go nearer to your subject so that you do not have to activate the zoom as much.

Tips to make your batteries last longer

We have just seen the biggest power users on your digital camera the LCD screen and flash. To conserve your battery power, you should work to reduce the usage of these.

First, reduce the brightness of your LCD screen. It will still allow you to view your shot composition but it will result in some battery power savings.

Secondly, when you are not taking a shot and just walking around, switch off your LCD to viewfinder mode instead. The viewfinder mode is where you view through the viewfinder to take a picture instead of using the LCD screen to do it. It does not consume energy unless you activate the digital zoom to zoom in and out.

Thirdly, you should minimize the usage of the flash. In low light, increase your ISO speed to 400 or 800 or even 1,600 if your camera permits. The higher the ISO setting, the

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