It seems that both proponents and opponents of battery grips feel strongly about their use. I'd like to hearwhat both sides have to say.


My generalusekitis a 5D Mark II with a 24-70mm f/2.8 <span style="color: #ff0000;"]L attached. Although I findthis setup quite well balanced,I am considering a battery grip for two reasons:
  1. I shoot in portrait orientation at least 50% of the time.
  2. Heavier lenses (EF 70-200mm f/2.8 <span style="color: #ff0000;"]L IS, EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 <span style="color: #ff0000;"]L IS) are quite front heavy and I'd like to balance them out



Battery life has not proven to be an issue for me but if I got a grip I would more times than not install two batteries in it. I am really hoping to improve the overall ergonomics of my setup (especially when shooting in portrait orientation).


Concerns are:
  1. Cumbersome -Putting the camera down...with a grip the camera/lens combo no longer sits nicely on its base. One solution is to lay the camera on its left side. Does this work well for you?
  2. Bulk - Does the added size/weight detract from theutility of the battery grip? Many people complain of the weight of the 24-70mm f/2.8 <span style="color: #ff0000;"]L <span style="color: #000000;"]alone<span style="color: #000000;"]. I am not one of those people. I think it compliments the 5D perfectly. When I put my EF 50mm f/1.4 on I feel like my camera is going to float away!



That's all that I can think of for now. I'm looking forward to your feedback.


Thanks!