Canon Battery Grip for 5D Mark IV: Essential Upgrade

Canon Battery Grip for 5D Mark IV: The Ultimate Power Boost for Your Camera

Yes, a battery grip is an essential upgrade for your Canon 5D Mark IV. It dramatically extends shooting time, improves handling, and adds convenient controls for vertical shooting, making it a must-have for serious photographers.

Taking great photos with your Canon 5D Mark IV is fantastic. But what happens when your battery runs out right when the moment happens? It’s frustrating, right? You’ve got your camera, you’re ready to shoot, and suddenly the red battery icon flashes. Don’t worry, there’s a super simple way to fix this and keep you shooting for much longer. It’s called a battery grip, and for the 5D Mark IV, it’s an upgrade that makes a huge difference. We’ll walk through exactly why it’s so useful and how it can help you capture those perfect shots without interruption. Let’s get your camera powered up for longer!

Why a Canon Battery Grip for 5D Mark IV is a Game-Changer

Imagine being out all day, capturing stunning landscapes or a bustling event, and your camera battery dying just as a key moment unfolds. It’s a photographer’s nightmare! The Canon BG-E21 battery grip is designed to prevent exactly that. It’s not just about adding more power; it’s about enhancing your entire shooting experience. For anyone serious about their photography, especially with a powerhouse like the 5D Mark IV, this accessory is less of a luxury and more of a necessity.

Extended Shooting Time: Never Miss a Shot Again

The most obvious benefit of a battery grip is the extended shooting time it provides. The 5D Mark IV itself takes a single LP-E6N battery, which offers a good number of shots. However, the BG-E21 grip allows you to use two LP-E6N batteries simultaneously. This effectively doubles – or even more than doubles, depending on usage – the number of shots you can take on a single charge.

Think about it: if you’re on a long wedding shoot, a wildlife safari, or a demanding event, changing batteries can be a hassle, and sometimes impossible without missing a critical moment. With the grip, you can shoot for hours on end, confident that your camera will keep up with your creative energy. This uninterrupted workflow is invaluable.

Improved Handling and Ergonomics

Beyond just battery life, the battery grip significantly improves the way your camera feels in your hands, especially when shooting vertically. The 5D Mark IV is a substantial camera, and adding the grip gives it more weight and a larger footprint. This can lead to a more stable hold, reducing camera shake and allowing for sharper images, particularly with longer lenses.

For those who frequently shoot portraits or any subject requiring a vertical orientation, the grip is a revelation. It includes a secondary set of vertical shutter release, main dial, and front dial, mirroring the camera’s controls. This means you don’t have to contort your wrist or change your grip when switching between horizontal and vertical shooting. It feels natural and comfortable, allowing you to focus on framing your shot rather than on camera ergonomics.

Enhanced Control for Vertical Shooting

As mentioned, the replicated controls are a huge advantage. Having a dedicated shutter button, command dials, and even an AF-ON button (on some grips, depending on the model) in the vertical position makes shooting portraits or tall subjects feel just as effortless as shooting landscapes horizontally.

This consistent control scheme is crucial for maintaining a fast shooting pace. You can adjust settings, focus, and release the shutter smoothly without ever needing to take your eye from the viewfinder. This is a professional feature that makes a tangible difference in usability.

Durability and Build Quality

Canon’s official battery grips, like the BG-E21, are built to match the rugged construction of their professional camera bodies. The grip is typically made from durable materials, often with rubberized exteriors that match the camera’s grip. This ensures it can withstand the rigors of professional use, from dusty deserts to damp environments.

While third-party grips exist, and can be tempting due to price, investing in a genuine Canon grip offers peace of mind regarding build quality, compatibility, and performance. The secure attachment mechanism and weather sealing also contribute to the overall protection of your 5D Mark IV.

Understanding the Canon BG-E21 Battery Grip

Let’s dive a little deeper into what makes the BG-E21 the perfect companion for your 5D Mark IV. It’s designed specifically for this camera, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

Compatibility: Designed for the 5D Mark IV

The BG-E21 is tailor-made for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. This means it attaches securely to the camera’s base, aligning perfectly with the battery compartment and electronic contacts. There are no compatibility issues to worry about – it just works.

It’s important to always check the specific grip model for compatibility with your camera. While many grips use the same battery type (LP-E6N/LP-E6), the physical design and electronic interface are often camera-specific.

Powering the Grip: Battery Options

The BG-E21 can accept two Canon LP-E6N or LP-E6 batteries.

• LP-E6N: These are the newer, higher-capacity batteries. Using two LP-E6Ns will give you the maximum possible shooting time.
• LP-E6: Older LP-E6 batteries can also be used, but they offer less capacity than the LP-E6N. The grip will still function, and you’ll get extended shooting time compared to using a single battery, but it won’t be as extensive as with LP-E6Ns.

The grip comes with a holder for the two LP-E6N/LP-E6 batteries. Some grips may also include an adapter that allows you to use AA batteries as a backup in a pinch. The BG-E21, however, is specifically designed for the LP-E6N/LP-E6.

Features at a Glance

Here’s a quick rundown of what you get with the BG-E21:

• Extended battery life by holding two LP-E6N/LP-E6 batteries.
• Vertical shutter release button for comfortable portrait shooting.
• Vertical Main Dial and Control Dial for easy setting adjustments.
• Improved camera balance and handling, especially with larger lenses.
• Durable construction, complementing the 5D Mark IV’s build.
• Secure attachment to the camera body.

Getting Started: Attaching and Using Your Battery Grip

Attaching and using a battery grip is straightforward. It’s like adding a piece of equipment that’s already part of your camera. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you up and running.

Step 1: Prepare Your Camera and Grip

Before you begin, ensure your camera is turned off and your existing battery is removed. Also, make sure the batteries you intend to use in the grip are fully charged.

Step 2: Remove the Camera’s Battery Compartment Cover

On the bottom of your 5D Mark IV, you’ll find a small compartment door for the battery. Gently slide this cover off or detach it according to your camera’s design. Keep it somewhere safe, as you’ll need it if you ever remove the grip. On the 5D Mark IV, this door usually slides out to reveal the battery chamber.

Step 3: Insert Batteries into the Grip

Open the battery holder that came with your BG-E21. Insert your two LP-E6N or LP-E6 batteries, making sure they are oriented correctly according to the markings inside the holder. If your grip came with an adapter for AA batteries, this is where you’d insert those if you were using them.

Safety Tip: Always handle batteries with care. Avoid dropping them or exposing them to extreme temperatures. Ensure they are inserted with the correct polarity to avoid damage to the grip or batteries.

Step 4: Attach the Grip to the Camera

Align the battery grip with the base of your 5D Mark IV. There should be a metal screw on the grip that threads into the tripod mount on your camera. Gently screw the grip into place until it is snug and securely attached. Don’t overtighten, but ensure there’s no wobble.

Step 5: Power On and Test

Once the grip is securely attached and the batteries are in place, turn on your camera. The camera should now recognize the batteries in the grip. You can usually check the battery status individually in the camera’s menu. Test the vertical shutter button and dials to make sure they are working correctly.

Maintaining Your Grip and Batteries

Just like your camera, your battery grip and batteries need a little care to ensure they perform optimally and last as long as possible.

Charging Your Batteries

Always use the official Canon charger that came with your LP-E6N or LP-E6 batteries. These chargers are designed to charge the batteries safely and efficiently, preventing overcharging and prolonging their lifespan.

• Charge one battery at a time in the charger.
• Ensure the battery is placed correctly in the charger.
• The charger will typically indicate when the battery is fully charged.

When using two batteries in the grip, it’s best practice to use two batteries with similar charge levels, or ideally, two fully charged batteries. This ensures consistent power delivery.

Cleaning Your Grip and Camera Contacts

Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the contacts between the camera body and the battery grip. This can sometimes lead to communication errors or reduced performance.

Gently clean the electrical contacts on both the camera’s base and the top of the battery grip using a clean, dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn dirt, you can use a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol, but ensure it dries completely before reattaching the grip.

Storing Your Grip and Batteries

When storing your camera with the battery grip attached for extended periods, it’s a good practice to remove the batteries from the grip. This prevents any potential slow discharge that could affect battery health.

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid storing batteries in very hot or very cold conditions.
• If storing for many months, charge batteries to about 50-60% capacity, not fully charged or completely drained.

Pros and Cons of Using a Battery Grip

Like any accessory, battery grips have their advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.

The Upside: Why You’ll Love It

Here are the key advantages:

• Massively increased shooting time: Shoot for days, not hours.
• Enhanced ergonomics: Better grip, especially for large lenses.
• Comfortable vertical shooting: Dedicated controls make portraits a breeze.
• Improved camera balance: Feels more substantial and stable.
• Professional look and feel: Adds a robust presence to your setup.

The Downside: Things to Consider

Here are the potential drawbacks:

• Increased weight and bulk: Your camera will be heavier and larger.
• Cost: Official Canon grips can be an investment.
• Not always necessary: If you rarely shoot for long periods or in vertical orientation, it might be overkill.

For many 5D Mark IV users, particularly those who shoot events, weddings, sports, or wildlife, the pros far outweigh the cons. The added shooting time and improved handling are often considered indispensable.

Canon Battery Grip vs. Third-Party Options

When looking for a battery grip, you’ll notice both official Canon models and many third-party alternatives. Each has its place, but understanding the differences is crucial.

Official Canon BG-E21 Grip

Pros:

• Guaranteed perfect fit and finish.
• Seamless electronic communication with the camera.
• Consistent build quality matching your camera body.
• Full warranty support from Canon.
• Often better weather sealing.

Cons:

• Higher price point.

Third-Party Battery Grips

Pros:

• Significantly lower cost.
• Can offer similar features to official grips.

Cons:

• Variable build quality – some are excellent, others are flimsy.
• Potential for minor fit issues or less robust connections.
• Electronic communication might be less reliable, sometimes causing battery warnings or not reading battery levels accurately.
• Limited or no warranty.
• May not offer the same level of weather sealing.

For critical professional work where reliability is paramount, investing in the official Canon BG-E21 is generally recommended. However, for hobbyists or those on a tighter budget, a well-reviewed reputable third-party grip can be a viable option. Always research reviews thoroughly for any third-party accessory.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While battery grips are generally reliable, you might encounter a few snags. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them.

Issue: Camera Not Recognizing Batteries in Grip

Possible Causes:

• Batteries are not inserted correctly.
• Batteries are not fully charged.
• Dirt or debris on the electrical contacts.
• Faulty battery or grip.
• Incorrect grip model for the camera.

Solutions:

• Double-check battery orientation and ensure they are fully seated.
• Ensure batteries are fully charged using the official charger.
• Clean the electrical contacts on the batteries, grip, and camera body with a microfiber cloth (and isopropyl alcohol if needed, ensuring it dries).
• Try using different known-good batteries.
• Ensure you have the correct grip model (BG-E21 for 5D Mark IV).
• If using a third-party grip, check its specific troubleshooting tips.

Issue: Vertical Shutter Button Not Working

Possible Causes:

• Grip is not fully attached.
• The camera’s internal settings might need adjustment (though usually automatic).
• Faulty shutter button on the grip.

Solutions:

• Gently detach and reattach the grip, ensuring it locks securely.
• Check the camera’s menu for any specific grip-related settings.
• Test the horizontal shutter button on the camera. If it works, and the vertical one doesn’t, the issue is likely with the grip.

Issue: Grip Feels Loose or Wobbly

Possible Causes:

• The mounting screw is not tightened enough.
• The grip or camera’s tripod mount threads are damaged.

Solutions:

• Carefully tighten the mounting screw until snug. Avoid over-tightening.
• Inspect the threads on both the grip and camera for damage. If damaged, professional repair might be needed. Refer to resources like those from Canon U.S.A. customer support for official guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Canon Battery Grip for 5D Mark IV