how often do you change flash batteries?

[islandphoto]

It's hard to tell when the batteries are low but not dead. How often do you change the batteries. Do any of you notice problems with keeping the same batteries in for a wedding?

Thanks!

[jamiewexler]

Usually one change in each flash for me. I use a CP-E3, so some wedding I don't have to change at all.

[islandphoto]

Would you say you change them about half way through an 8 hour day? What percentage of the time would you say you are using flash?

[bungee]

Buy lots of rechargeables and a good charger (or two). It's a good idea to make sure fresh batteries are in for critical pics which means changing them before they run out. Good battery chargers complete the discharge before re-charging, so you won't damage them.

[islandphoto]

Thanks bungee! I have a sony charger right now. Do you recommend any in particular?

[tim]

I very very rarely have to change batteries during a wedding, probably because I use a CP-E3, and never shoot below ISO400 with flash. I don't use a lot of on-camera flash anyway, if I use off camera flash it's the main light and powered by the CPE3, but I still shoot ISO400-1600. NB Higher ISO = less flash power needed.

[islandphoto]

SO during the ceremony you never use fill flash?

[jamiewexler]

I'm the same as Tim. I shoot with a flash just about all day,but don't usually have to change them until 6 hours into it (if at all). I too shoot at 400-1600 for a lot of the day. Outdoor ceremonies drain my batteries much faster, since I'm usually trying to overpower the sun. I use rechargeable batteries (the "digital" brand from Wal-Mart). I bought 4 chargers so I can charge 16 at a time, and carry about 40 to every wedding. I also carry a 16 pack of alkaline batteries as a BU. I'm paranoid about running out of flash power!

[bungee]

Thanks bungee! I have a sony charger right now. Do you recommend any in particular?

No recommendation. Ask at a good electronics store and tell them how you'll be using it.

[tim]

SO during the ceremony you never use fill flash?

I've never needed flash during an inside ceremony, i'd rather shoot at ISO1600 or even 3200. Outside ceremonies/photos I use the flash a lot.

[Ken Cravillion]

I never change my batteries during the day. Though the only time the flashes come out is during the formals and also reception if it has cave-like lighting.... I used to use the CP-E3 but no longer find it necessary.

[islandphoto]

I've never needed flash during an inside ceremony, i'd rather shoot at ISO1600 or even 3200. Outside ceremonies/photos I use the flash a lot. Gotcha! I am so used to out door ceremonies here in Hawaii that if I don't use flash there can be some really strong shadows. I prefer not to use flash at an indoor ceremony as well.