How can I extend the battery life of my Coolpix camera?

How can I extend the battery life of my Coolpix camera?

COOLPIX battery life depends on variables such as the camera model, battery condition and how the battery is used. The instruction manual supplied with each camera will outline the average time or number of images that can be taken with a battery, however it is possible to extend the battery life of various COOLPIX models using the following tips:

1. Turn the monitor off

If the camera features an optical viewfinder to compose the image, turn the camera's LCD monitor off when taking the image and only switch the LCD monitor on to view the image after it has been taken by pressing the play button.

Cameras without a play button may be able to use the 'Review Only' option listed in the 'Monitor Options' found in 'Display Mode'.

2. Flash Photography

Flash photography is the second major cause of battery consumption. The fewer images taken with flash the longer the battery will last. To help prevent further drain on the battery, only use the cameras red-eye reduction flash setting when photographing people in dark conditions (for more information on the cause of red eye, click here).
The camera's flash should be turned off when photographing large buildings, landscapes, concerts or stadium sporting events as the built-in flash is not powerful enough to illuminate such subjects and will result in more battery usage.

3. Auto off

You can save battery power on your Coolpix camera by setting the automatic sleep mode to the minimum interval. The camera allows the user the ability to change the cameras Auto Off timer via the setup menu to one of the following settings: 30 seconds, 1 minute(default), 5 minutes or 30 minutes. In order to increase battery life, it is recommended to use 30 seconds or 1 minute options. Once the camera is in standby it can be re-activated by pressing the power switch, press the shutter release halfway, press the play button, press the menu button or rotate the mode dial to select a new mode.

4. Keep the battery warm

In cold temperatures, battery power can drop significantly. Keeping the Coolpix camera warm by putting it in your internal pocket will maximize the amount of power the battery can provide. However, DO NOT overheat the camera. Keeping the camera above 40° F will maintain reasonable battery life.

5. Battery Condition

The life span of rechargeable batteries is not indefinite and should be replaced after approximately 500 charges. Always ensure that the battery is properly conditioned; if the battery will not be used for some time, run the battery flat before storing it. If the battery is kept in storage for a long period, charge the battery and then run it flat again at least once a year. Always remove the battery from the camera or battery charger when it is not being used. Left installed, due to minute amounts of current flow, the battery may be come excessively drained and no longer function. Do not attempt to recharge a fully-charged battery as doing so will result in reduced battery performance.

For further details on the settings outlined on this page please refer to the instruction manual supplied with the camera.