"Harry Krause" wrote in message
...

Just wondering.

My little camera speedlight uses four AA batteries and gives me about 160
or so flashes before they need to be replaced. They're not expensive, but
I don't always have a fresh set available, and I don't always remember to
stop and buy some before I go out with my camera.

So, I've been thinking about getting four rechargeable NiMH batteries for
about $2.50 each, and a charger. Sony and others offer a charger-battery
combo for about $30.

I'm wondering how long these NiMH batteries "hold" their charge if they
are freshly charged? If it is several weeks between camera use, would I be
wanting to recharge them prior to taking the camera out to use?

Any experience?

Thanks.

Based on Tom Francis' recommendation, I bought Panasonic's batteries and
charger. Fine for some uses, but not for others. Some "smart" devices think
the batteries are low even if you put in freshly charged ones, and won't
function nearly as long as with alkalines. And, the NiMH batteries lose
charge just sitting in a box unused. So, you need to pay attention to those,
or they won't be the backups you think they are.