If you're having a problem with the battery life, judging on other reviews, you aren't the only one. This camera does work decently when the batteries are working. It takes video with sound in addition to the pics. If you have a HP computer and printer like me, the software loading pics/video is even easier.Here's what I have found is a way around the battery problem:Keep 3 sets of rechargable batteries. (I use rayovac IC3 6 total)The moment you put the batteries in the camera, it starts sucking power whether it is on or not! IF I limit my viewing of pics already taken and take pics without the screen on, the batteries will last about a day (40 pics).Leave the batteries in the camera overnight. By the next morning, the batteries will be dead or close to it. Take the old batteries out, and put new charged ones in while the others charge. The reason why I keep 3 sets is in case I use one up too fast.Hope that works!