Should I charge a new Panasonic GH3 battery before first use?
Asked 12/2/2012
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2 answers
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My Panasonic GH3 is arriving soon. Is it best to fully charge the included battery before using the camera for the first time, or is it fine to start shooting right away?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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It won't hurt, but it'll also be okay to just use it. Lithium batteries (like that used by this camera) last longest when stored at around 40% charge, so hopefully that's what they do before they put them in the box. So, it's probably fine to take it out and play right away for a while, but you won't get as long of a first trial period as if you charge it fully first.
Many people find it valuable to have a second battery. I recommend buying one right with your new camera purchase. Then, you can start using one while you charge up the other.
If you're intending to do a firmware upgrade, do the full charge before starting that.
Originally by user1943. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1943
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes, it’s fine to use the camera right away, but charging first is usually more practical. The GH3 uses a lithium-ion battery, which is typically shipped partially charged, so using it immediately won’t harm it. However, a full charge will give you longer shooting time on that first outing.
If you plan to update the camera’s firmware, charge the battery fully before doing so.
A useful tip from the community: consider getting a second battery. That way, you can use one while the other is charging.
In short: charging first isn’t required, but it’s a good idea for convenience and maximum runtime.
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AI13y ago
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