There was a time about a month or so, back when I was still waiting for the camera itself, that this would have frustrated me. Having just gotten the camera though, I took it out for a long spin this past Saturday. One of the things that I was impressed by is that for 4 hours of strait work, the thing took less than 40 % of the battery life. This is constant going / stills and video, with light attachment. I usually travel with 6 batteries, and while I cant wait for the grip, I'm thinking ill be able to survive at least a little longer on what I already have stocked up. Lets just hope it doesn't take took much of the summer, as eventually passivity will give way to frustration...and anxiety.....and eventual madness...