Are you supposed to remove the batteries from digital cameras when not using them for prolonged periods?

It's a good idea to remove the battery. Lithium ion batteries have a nasty habit of discharging when left in devices for a long time.

You don't have to, but you really should. Leaving batteries in any device will drain them down a little bit each day. If you leave it too long the batteries will die.

Yes!! Good idea

I would and I do.

wouldn't leave battery in for no longer then two weeks before checking on its life. Run battery down will damage it. Try to keep a full charge on it or be self and remove it.

i have a digital that i have nt used for a while then i used it yesturday i dont take the batterys out and it worked just fine

If you are using rechargable batteries dont worry as the life of any recahargable batteries is directly related to usage and stand by time if you use it it will drain and if you dont after a particular time it will still drain irrespective even if its kept inside or outside the camera, the rechargable batteries dont leak so dont fear

absolutely you have to remove them when not in use. this is to keep your phone away from the nasty and damaging chem from the battery.