Which battery pack do you use? Did you buy an extra magazine?
Thank's,
Candy

I use the Canon CP-E3 for my 580ex, and it also will work on the 550ex as well. It's light weight and holds 8 - AA batteries.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...oughType=search

What do you need the battery pack for? Do you need faster recycling times? Do you need your flash to run longer?

Both??!!??

Are you running out of juice before the end of a wedding, or just preparing for the fact? I use Powerex 2700mAH NIMH batteries in my flashes and can go an entire wedding without changing them out. I do have spares, but they've maybe been used once.

Try upgrading your batteries first, then consider a cumbersome pack if you truly need one.

Cheers!
FLoyd

Thank You so much Floyd!!! I run out of juice even with Portraits. But, I want to be able to use flash at receptions without a hitch! I will definately upgrade first!
Candy

When I desire an external pak, I use the Sunpak TR2000, but I'll be checking out the Powerex batteries! The Sunpak is not that big, but just the fact that you're tethered to a battery is a bit cumbersome, but it's awesome for recycle time and we can go a 16hr day with it. I foof a LOT, so it comes in handy at times. Also, when a 580ex goes on a stand, I usually just put the TR2000 on with it.

michael

You're welcome....and here's where to get them: http://www.thomasdistributing.com/

we've been using quantum turbo packs, lasts all day and very fast recycle times. we rent them for $10 for the weekend.

Duracell has recently come out with a new rechargeable 2650mAh AA and I love them. I can usually go anywhere from 300-400 shots with one set. It's not enough to necessarily get me through the whole day, but they certainly cut way down on battery changes and the recycle time is great.

Plus, you can get 'em at the drug store if you have to.

But I still want a light-wt external pack, too!

--J.

++

I've got the older Powerex 2400 and I've been able to shoot a full wedding on one set (albeit, I've got two cameras each with a flash, so the load is somewhat distributed). Those batteries really are amazing, and independent tests have shown they're the best (at the time I bought mine).

Personally, I would not want to lug around an external battery pack.

I just use AA Nimh batteries. I usually only change them once at a wedding (after the ceremony).

But as for battery packs, when I shot film, I used a 200WS Lumedyne - and when it wasn't working I used my 400WS Quantum. Try carrying that around for a wedding.