I would say I am getting around 750 pops or so out of my Eneloop batteries. Bryan had a link to a special at B&H a little while back and I purchased two packages. Comes with 8 in a package. They work great. I would second on the 580ExII. I have both the 580 and 430 and my 430 only sees time on a day when I am taking picture of the kids in the studio and need a hair light or secondary fill. 430 has some power just not enough for they type of event your doing. Have a good time and good luck!