Canon Power Drive Booster PB-E2 Importado

Comments about Canon Power Drive Booster PB-E2:

When I bought my 1V in November of 2005, I bought the kit including the PB-E2, mainly because I wanted the 10 frames/second capability that wasn't available without it. However, it's also extremely easy to use for vertical shots, giving you all the controls at your fingertips when shooting vertically. At the time, as far as I know, that wasn't included in the vertical grip for any other model, though I understand it is now.It does allow using 8 AA's instead of the NP-E2 Battery Pack, the use of which also requires you to buy the charger for it; that's a nice plus but I seldom use anything other than the NP-E2 if I can help it because you can only get 6 frames/second with AA's. I've used it on two voyages to Europe on container ships, fully charged before departure, and given it heavy use both times and not run down, so keeping the NP-E2 charged hasn't been difficult.I've read some 1V reviews elsewhere that have complained about the added bulk with the Power Drive attached -- simply put I don't agree -- I think it's more reassuring! In summation -- if you want to get the most out of your 1V or 3, I don't see how you can not have the PB-E2, NP-E2 and Charger.

Expertise: Newly published professional

Problems Encountered: None really -- I find an Optech Neck Strap really helps with the 1V's weight -- there are times when I've carried both my 1V and 1N, with boosters attached to each, and the extra wide strap and padding really come into their own then.

Previous Equivalent Item Owned: BP-300, when I used an Elan 7NE

Items I Recommend: An Op tech Neck strap -- I love most things Canon, but when you carry pro equipment, the extra width and padding really help!

Comments about Canon Power Drive Booster PB-E2:

One would expect little can be written on a simple item as a vertical grip and that everything is clear from the outstart. Surprisingly not. I have had vertical grips attached to all my cameras to-date. I find them useful and indispensable - also for security reasons when travelling (as I can continue to feel my wallet while shooting away). Generally I buy them more for convenience of taking vertical shots and stability of the camera than for the booster or additional battery capabilities (although the latter with the PB-E2 is welcome). Hence I preferred the VG-1 for Canon EOS 5 as it replicated all the functions but did not add weight through locating batteries or winders. Nevertheless the PB-E2 although heavier gives additional opportunities. The 8AA batteries give plenty of power and allow easy and cheap recharging. The winder gives a lot of power - although personally of limited use to me. In summary I recommend the product and would definitely buy it again although two weaknesses described below are of a nuisance.

Expertise: Advanced amateur taking pictures for 37 years

Problems Encountered: No problem technically but more an erroneous design as not all buttons on the Canon 1V are replicated on the grip e.g. the memory button (also used for selecting sensors and other defineable via Custom Functions) is not present. Why not - beats me but personally I find it annoying as I frequently have to revert to the button on the body so the functionality of the grip is impaired.Second the VG-1 was more convenient to detach and stow away. Here you have to carry the GR-E2 cover in order to be able to do so.

Previous Equivalent Item Owned: VG1 for Canon EOS 5