Running out of battery is not a common occurrence, yet it’s something you definitely don’t want happening to you. Ironically, it always happens when something important or unique is going on.

Here are 9 secrets to help extend the life of your camera’s battery.

1. Use the viewfinder

The LCD screen is one of the most energy consuming components in any digital camera. It’s also easy to use for framing and that’s why so many people photograph using live view mode. But unfortunately it drains batteries. Try to use your viewfinder for framing. Even if it is an electronic one, it will still use less battery power than the LCD screen,

2. Don’t delete pictures from the camera

This used to be a common practice many years ago when memory cards had a limited capacity. But I know there still are people out there who review the day’s work on the camera screen and also delete the bad photos. All that puts the camera’s computer to work and it uses energy. Wait until you download the photos into your computer.

3. Don’t turn off the camera

This might seem like a faulty piece of advice, but trust me, it isn’t .Most cameras require more energy when powering on than they do to staying idle.

4. Minimize use of long lenses

Long zooms, like 70-200mm f2.8 ones use more energy. Their focusing mechanisms require more power so it’s best to use these lenses only when necessary, especially if you know you have limited battery life.

5. Keep the camera warm

It might sound silly, but there are few things that will drain a battery faster than cold. If you don’t believe me try keeping your camera strapped around your neck when shooting in the snow .It will reduce the capacity by half. Keep the camera in the bag, and any keep any spare batteries in your pocket or a warm place.

6. Minimize use of the built-in flash

You should avoid the built-in flash because it is a bad idea anyway. But besides that, it is also a big power consumer. Don’t use it unless absolutely necessary. Instead, go for a much useful external flash because it has separate batteries and it allows for more flexibility.

7. Stop pushing the shutter release half-way

Many photographers believe that if they push the shutter release multiple times, half way, it will result in more accurate focus. While it isn’t true, it is also battery consuming. Focus once and do it right, when framing.

8. No chimping

Chimping is one the classic ways to turn your camera into a useless brick. You might be captivated by a fresh photo, but why not wait a little and enjoy it in full size? Chimping is also distracting and it pulls you out of the creative zone.

9. Shoot it like a film camera

How do you shoot a DSLR like an analogue camera? Simple. Turn off image review and stop chimping after each frame .It does take a little time to get used to it, but in the end it pays of for battery life and creativity. Not to mention it will make you more aware of exposure settings.

Good luck!