Canon CP-E4 - Flash power pack

I'm a wedding photographer by profession. I put off buying this because it was so expensive and I was doing just fine carrying extra batteries and changing them when I noticed they were running low. I purchased it the other day because I was getting sick of missing 1 or 2 out of 5 pictures in quick-sequence shots (bouquet-tossing, cake cutting, etc).

After just one shoot, I have completely fallen in love with it. I was able to fire off sequences without missing anything, it recycles my flash supremely quickly and I only wish I'd bought it sooner. I will actually be getting rid of my 430ex backup flash so that I have two flashes that are compatible with this.

Like it so much that I ended up buying another after getting the first one. No more waiting for my flash, i get the shot without waiting. Carry extra batteries. Cause when the batteries run out.. they're out. My batteries last twice as long. I highly recommend this product to anyone who depends a lot on there flash.

This pack really helps to extend the performance of a canon 580 EX flash, and is a must for wedding work and other long shoots. The enhanced weather sealing is also a good feature. Besides the price, my only concern is that the top, where you thread a stap through seems flimsy. It's also right where the seam in the plastic housing is. Most photographers that I have seen using it have attached their straps through the belt loop on the nylon protective sleeve,and this causes the unit to hang a bit awkwardly. Why not also include a cheap strap with it? I'm also concerned that the connecting cord is permanently attached to the unit. Cords have a tendency to eventually need replacing, and that doesen't seem possible on this unit. Overall though, it does do the job.

I use this with my 580ex. I bought it for journalism and event photography and I was not dissapointed. It vastly improves recycle times, doesn't cost a fortune, and is relatively light weight. This is the answer for those of us who need more power from the flash but don't want to spend the money on turbo batteries. It is good to have at least 2 chargers for your recyclable AA's since you will be using eight in here and another four in the flash.

admittedly pricey, but an essential purchase for those who plan to shoot a long session such as a wedding and reception, and never have to change batteries. this unit gives you 12 total -- 4 in your speedlite and 8 in this unit -- great plenty to shoot and shoot.

the unit is nicely constructed, and comes with a ballistic nylon case. the case has two closures (snap and velcro), and two ways to attach it to yourself (belt loop, quick-release velcro). it also comes with a 1/4-20 screw to mount it to your rack.