The term “megapixel” refers to one million pixels, and is used in reference to digital cameras indicating its resolution capability. A pixel is a tiny square on a computerized display that is so small it appears as a dot. Hence, your 5.0MP (megapixel) camera has a frame with 5 million pixels or “dots” arranged in order. A very detailed and intricate instrument. We’ve come far from the days of the simple Brownie Pinhole Camera.

Traditional film cameras needed no electrical power to operate. They were totally mechanical except for powering an electronic flash. Gradually batteries became an enhancement with later model film cameras. Today we have become extremely dependent on battery power in order to experience our modern digital media, whether it be digital audio recording or video recording and playback. Most quality digital cameras also record audio and video to some degree.

Standard alkaline AA batteries do not last long in digital cameras. Alkaline batteries do not hold well with high-drain electronic devices. Digital cameras burn up power and it can get very expensive very fast. Few photographers actually do use AA alkaline batteries unless in a pinch.

Regular high-capacity NiMH rechargeable AA batteries work very well with digital cameras. Any NiMH rechargeable battery with 2700 mAh or more should keep a photographer happy for 300 to 400 shots excluding a flash. The added drain of a flash on the battery will lessen the number of shots, but even so the photographer will find these batteries very functional and satisfying.

Here are some things to consider:

• In selecting your next digital camera, consider buying one that also takes AA batteries. Whether you decide to use rechargeable NiMH AA batteries or not, at least you will be able to pick up some AA alkalines as an emergency backup if you are out of battery power.
• Format the SD or xD memory card before using it. This helps save energy inside the camera and assists in recover time between flashes.
• Recondition your NiMH batteries every 10 to 15 charges. This will keep the batteries’ capacities in good shape, and helps with the overall length of the batteries’ life.
• Be aware the camera flash will cause a small (4 to 6 seconds) delay between shots. It takes a few seconds for the battery to catch up with the camera. This is common with all digital cameras powered off internal batteries.
• Flashes increase the high drain on a camera, but if you have spare batteries there is nothing to worry about.
• Set up a simple, no brain, logical system to keep track of all your rechargeable batteries. I number my batteries on the flat, bottom terminal with a sharpie, and when out shooting I have a special compartment for storing the “discharged batteries” so there will be no confusion of which are charged and which are spent. Charged or not, they all look alike.

POWER YOUR ROAD!