• compatible with Canon Digital Rebel XSi
• camera grip with storage for two LP-E5, or 6 "AA" batteries (not included)
• use of 2 LP-E5 batteries doubles shooting time
• built-in camera control buttons for easier vertical shooting, including shutter release, AE/FE lock, Main Dial, and aperture/exposure compensation button

The Canon BG-E5 Battery Grip has been launched alongside the Canon EOS 450D. Slotting into the battery bay, it is able to take 6 AA batteries or two of the 450D's new LP-E5 batteries. It provides a shutter button and control dial along with AE/FE Lock, exposure compensation and AF point selection buttons in a vertical orientation. The Canon BG-E5 offers creative flexibility by providing a stable grip for vertical as well as horizontal positions.

I love this grip. I would recommend this grip to any one who plans on taking many pictures and don't want to wait for a battery to recharge.

A great add-on for your product. Doesn't add too much weight, and it feels well made.

I just wanted to clarify something for future buyers of this item: you get TWO trays. One tray holds two canon LP-E5 batteries, and the other tray holds 4 AA batteries. That wasn't made clear to me before my purchase (i thought you could use the power sources simultaneously).

Attached to the XSi body it adds some needed volume & mass. Only problem is that the "horn" which sticks out on the lower right side when used in landscape orientation prevents your pinky finger from wrapping around the grip in a comfortable manner. In portrait mode, it's great. It seems the ergo gurus at canon could have lopped of the offending "horn" to improve the ergonomics in landscape mode. I have an older A2E with a vertical grip and its supremely comfortable in either orientation. The body sans grip has no room for your pinky, unfortunately with the BG-E5 attached your pinky has to content with the aforementioned bulge which interferes with a solid grip.

My grip isn't as large as most folks so I thought it important to give a perspective for folks with small hands. This grip adds a bit of weight to the camera but is not too heavy. The trade for more shooting time is worth it. I had to upgrade my head to compensate for the weight. Vertical shots are much easier with the placement of the second button.

It's great that you can use one battery with it. I added a second battery also increasing weight, but again doubling my available shooting time.

Overall, a great addition. I needed it to shoot longer in the field. I'll be away from a power source for a few days.

Great addition to the XSI! It balances the camera nicely, adds the ability to use AA batteries or Canon rechargeables.