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Batteries - rechargeable
There are two categories of rechargeable batteries: standard and proprietary. Many digital cameras use readily available standard size batteries. Others require proprietary Lithium-Ion batteries made by the manufacturer or a third party, which sometimes must be special ordered.
Batteries sold under the name of a manufacturer can be more expensive, however a charger is typically included with the camera.
In addition to Lithium-Ion, there are three other types of rechargeable batteries used in digital cameras: NiCD, NiMH and NiMH hybrid. Nickel Metal Hydride are currently the most popular because they provide more capacity than NiCDs and don't suffer from memory effect. Non-hybrid NiMHs lose their charge when not used so recharge them if you haven't used your camera for some time.
Never mix different battery types.
Conditioning batteries
Conditioning helps keep the capacity of batteries from diminishing. Some manufacturers recommend conditioning batteries after every 10 or so recharges.
If you don't have a battery charger that does conditioning, do so manually. Drain batteries completely in your camera. Once they are fully drained, recharge them.
Rechargeable batteries are good for about 500-1000 charges.
Related reading: Batteries with built-in chargers
