Camera Bag Recommendations: What’s Yours?
We ran this question/discussion just on two years ago now but a lot of new camera bags are now on the market so it’s time to do it again.
What camera bag do you use and recommend – and why?
- Do you use a brand like Crumpler, Tamrac or Lowpro OR do you prefer a more anonymous brand that looks less like a camera bag (and makes it less attractive to thieves)?
- Do you use a bag that is not really a camera bag at all?
- What features do you look for in a camera bag?
- Do you have more than one bag for different situations?
Last time the most popular bag was the Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack (pictured). It’ll be interesting to see if it still ranks highest among our readers or whether another bag takes the cake now!
287 Responses to “Camera Bag Recommendations: What’s Yours?” - Add Yours
March 4th, 2010 at 11:54 am
Kata DR467
March 4th, 2010 at 11:59 am
Billingham 335 and 445. Best bags to work out of. (domke is a good Second)
March 4th, 2010 at 11:59 am
I spent a lot of time looking at bags. I was about to get the Tenba satchel, but then I saw they sell their inserts separately. So, I bought an insert and use my small or medium Timbuk2 messenger bag – depending on what else I’m carrying. I have a Sony alpha 850 with three lenses and a flash. It all fits nicely, and the medium bag leaves me enough room to add my Kindle and (paper) notebook.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:02 pm
I have a LowePro Slingshot 100, which is very nice, but can’t hold everything, and a Crumpler $7M, which holds all the goods and then some. Problem with the Crumpler and all the goods is that it’s pretty heavy. I’ll probably use the Crumpler for home base and the Slingshot for packing a little lighter.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:06 pm
ThinkTank Speed Freak
Sturdy construction, media wallet, shoulder strap and waist belt. Expandable – can add lense bags to waist belt. Quick access to camera compared to backpack style bags.
Looks somewhat discreet…although their Urban Disguise series is more incognito…..
March 4th, 2010 at 12:08 pm
I picked up a Crumpler 4 Million Dollar Home recently for my D90 and kit lens. It’s got a decent amount of room for what I’ve got now, with room to spare for a few future accessories. It has solid construction and a nice design that’s functional without screaming “I’m a camera bag!”.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:10 pm
I just got a ThinkTank Streetwalker Harddrive. It’s a plain, black backpack. It looks a little bulky but it doesn’t look like a camera bag. I purchased it because not only can it carry my camera and lens, but it also holds my new Dell Studio laptop for assignments on the go. I use to (and some times still do), use a BlackHawk 3Day Assault Pack with a generic camera holster with different lens bags for the lenses. I use that bag more for air travel when I want to just use a carryone bag and include limited clothes.
* What features do you look for in a camera bag?
* Do you have more than one bag for different situations?
Read more: http://digital-photography-school.com/camera-bag-recommendations-whats-yours#ixzz0hAZuLjeH
March 4th, 2010 at 12:11 pm
I just bought an LA Police Gear Tactical Bail Out Gear Bag and I’m pretty happy with it. http://goo.gl/mzfO
Also I used Kata MODI-VERS KIT-20 Soft Divider System to make space for my gear – it’s usually a D40 + 18-200vr with some 3-4 flashes, flash cord and some flash gear. http://goo.gl/dAzt
March 4th, 2010 at 12:15 pm
Kata 3n1 or lowepro stealth reporter or an old book bag depending on the assigment
March 4th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
I`ve got a Kata 3n1 bag. It`s really good! well built and all. The only thing is that is a bit difficult to put extra lenses ( I`ve got the smaller version of the bag) …
You MUST BE CAREFUL about leaving the side pocket open, `cos extra stuff in the bag might fall off. It did happen to my 50mm, but fortunately it`s fine. just a little scratch.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
..a crumpler 7 million.. looking for something bigger though, maybe the 8 million or the thinktank streetwalker harddrive..
March 4th, 2010 at 12:18 pm
I just use an oversized purse, and made insert/surrounds for my camera and additional lens.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:19 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW
March 4th, 2010 at 12:21 pm
I use a Jill-e carryall bag in black with colorful polka dots. Jill-e bags are designed for women to carry all their stuff, not just camera gear. I like it because it looks more like a messenger bag and because I can put my wallet and cell phone in there and I’m good to go.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:23 pm
Mountainsmith Tour. Easier to work out of than any camera bag I’ve ever carried, more comfortable for any length of time, and has a use without camera gear, too.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
I use a Lowepro 200AW Classified. Highly customizable interior, journalistic-style layout. Can carry two bodies, one medium telephoto, one wide angle, one telephoto, a 100mm macro prime, a fifty prime, and three speedlights along with gels, a light meter, a Lumiquest softbox and a Hoodman loupe and other accessories. Very happy with it. Easy to access, well-built (fot the most part) and has an excellent shoulder strap.
_E
March 4th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
I now use the LowePro Slingshot 300 (used to use the 200 but now have two ore lenses). It is terrific all round. I tried 2 different Kata bags. They are brutally expensive and basically useless, especially the “3N1″.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
I bought a Lowepro Fastpack 200 last week.
I didn’t go out with it yet, but it’s a really nice and comfortable bag
March 4th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
I’m using shootsac sling by Jessica Claire. They are very comfortable and convenient when changing lenses.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
I have 3 and they all serve different purposes:
1. Lowepro Fastpack 350 – Carries everything including 17″ laptop. Use it for hikes and when I need to take “the works” (including tripod).
2. Lowepro Fastpack 100 – Same design as the 350, but “mini”. Use it for short daytrips or when biking.
3. Tenba Messenger Pro – My everyday bag. New Year’s resolution was to have my camera with me everywhere. This bag makes it possible to carry my camera, laptop and assorted paper work. Really love this one.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
I use a Crumpler Muffin Top 4000 or 5000, can’t remember. Although I am really really interested in this TRKFLD bag http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/slr-sloop-camera-bag
March 4th, 2010 at 12:34 pm
Picked up a Kata DR-467 a few months ago and really enjoy using it.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
I have the Tamrac Adventure 9 and I love it. The most important features for me are weatherproofing, structural strength and pockets.
It has more than enough pockets for all your batteries and memory cards plus all the other things i carry like screwdrivers and superglue!
I’ve dragged it up the side of mountains and through dense rainforest too. It’s actually been the most comfortable back i’ve ever had to carry on my back. The laptop pouch is also handy for putting my Manfrotto tripod in.
I did a full review of it here http://www.mattprestonphotography.com/tamrac-camera-bag-review/
March 4th, 2010 at 12:36 pm
I use the Lowepro Fastpack 250. Roomy enough to hold my gear, laptop and a few other items when I’m out and about.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Lowepro Stealth Reporter D650 – need something big enough for bodies, lenses, flashes, as well as 17″ Macbook Pro & accessories. Ridiculously heavy, but I only ever tote that bag two and from the car on assignments. If I have to walk any distance, throw a cut-down kit into my Tamrac Adventure 9 backpack which still fits my MBP.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
I love my Lola bag by epiphanie. Just got it, looks more like a purse than a camera bag which means it’s less enticing for someone to steal AND I can carry it around everywhere and look just like I’m carrying a purse. Plus it holds my d90 body w/kit lens, and 2 other lenses AND my other junk without any problem.
More detailed review at my blog: http://curiousillusion.com/2010/02/17/new-camera-bag-lola-by-epiphanie/
March 4th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
Domke F-2 Original Bag
http://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-2-Original-Bag-Sand/dp/B00009R884/ref=pd_bxgy_p_text_c
I use this to throw my gear in the truck and go. I detest carrying a bag around on shoots so, I carry 2 camera bodies (Nikon D300 and D700) with appropriate lenses for the assignment. Beats carrying a bag around. At least for me.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
As a nature and landscape photographer, I like the Lowepro Orion AW All Weather Convertible Beltpack. I can keep the majority of the weight around my waste, and the top part of the pack allows me to hold rain gear, lunch and windbreaker. I especially like the ability to cover the belt pack with the attached rain cover, just in case I get caught in some inclimate weather. I can also wear just the belt pack under my backpack and swing it around to the front for easy access to my lenses.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
Always had a hard time finding a bag to hold a camera+grip. I use a Lowepro CompuDayPack for everyday (and school) use, a Lowepro Rezo180EX for carry-all situations and an older Lowepro EX160 for light work/film work. Im looking at getting the Pro Runner 450 to act as a mobile studio
March 4th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
I love my slingshot! I’ve been using the Slingshot 300 for travel photography for 3 years now, and there’s nothing like it. It carries comfortably on my back, swings around for easy access to the cameras, and even acts as an elbow support when shooting. Finally, it doesn’t look like a camera case, but just an ordinary back pack. I couldn’t ask for more.
–Paul
pdhealey.blogspot.com
March 4th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
I love my Lowepro Primus AW for hiking.
I carry about 30 lbs of gear on a day trip including a Hydration pack stuffed between the pack and tripod holder. Extremely comfortable and stable especially while scrambling over rocks. There is enough room for the 10 essentials, Canon 5D Markll, 70-200 2.8 IS, 70-105, 1.4x teleconverter, 430EX flash, filters, cards extra bateries, lunch, Gitzo Tripod w/ Markins Q3 ballhead and lots of nocks and crannies for other items.
I do not however find the side access compartment for the camera useful at all for this size camera and I have attached an L bracket to my camera from RRS which makes taking off the pack necessary for camera retrieval, Which has also necessitated the need for a ballhead cover and leg wraps because you will put the bag on top of the tripod on the ground since this is a back access pack.
The tripod holder adjustable glide lock is on the flimsy side and have lost the strap to it once already.
I would buy it again if something happened to it.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:49 pm
I have that Lowepro Slingshot. It works fine for holding my gear, but it doesn’t work for me, physically. How to put this…I have issues with the over the shoulder thing and straps- being a girl, the strap does not play nice with my anatomy. Bah! I need a different style bag, I suppose. I hate shoulder bags, they always seem to flap around and not stay stable when I’m trying to move around and take my pictures.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
I use a small Lowepro similar to the Rezo 190 (I don’t know what model it is ):
March 4th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
I use a Tamrac 5768 Velocity 8x. I carry it with me every day. It is a sling bag that can be worn on your back, but swings around to have quick easy access to my camera and lenses. This makes it easy to switch lenses when necessary as well. There is plenty of room for my Nikon D90 with 18-105, 55-200 zoom, Tokina 11-16, and battery charger. It is a little tight when I carry the 70-200 f2.8 lens though, but that is pretty rare.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:52 pm
I have a few bags but my top two are #2- med Bone/black Jill-e bag and #1 my brand new red leather Epiphanie bag. It’s absolutely amazing at styling to boot.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW for transporting… but most outings, I just rely on cargo shorts
March 4th, 2010 at 12:54 pm
I have a Domke J1 camera bag and the Tenba messenger; however, my new favorite is the Think Tank Streetwalker Hard Drive. Think Tank produces great camera bags, great designs, excellent materials, and fine workmanship.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Anything by Think Tank is awesome. Their quality and attention to detail is really amazing. A week after I got my rotation 360 I was still finding nifty little features and touches.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:56 pm
I do have a real camera bag, but I have no idea what brand it is, nor does it matter to me. It is just a bag divided up into sections for bodies & lenses, all wonderfully padded. But the bag I reach for more often or not is my Galls Original StreetPro™ Police Gear Bag. (http://www.galls.com/style.html?assort=general_catalog&style=BG006) 40 bucks, and it holds all sorts of stuff. Everything from light meters to speedlights to speedlight stand adapters to who knows what goes in it, and a couple of umbrellas strap to the top. sling the whole thing over my shoulder, and off I go.
There is hardly any padding — I guess the men in blue (or whatever color they wear in your neck of the woods) don’t feel a need to pad their Glock, so I did add a little padding to the bottom, but that was the only modification. Great bag, takes a beating, and fan haul a ton of gear.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
I have a Lowepro ComuTrekker AW for when I want to take everything. I also have a Lowepro Slingshot 200 for when I want to travel a bit lighter. And if I want to travel a bit more discreetly I have a Timbuktu Messenger Bag that will hold quite a bit of gear.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
I’ve heard the slingshots are difficult when doing moderate hikes because they all sit on one shoulder. The small stabilizing strap supposedly cuts into you as well. One reviewer took his on a photography trip to Asia and by the time the week was over he couldn’t stand it and left it at the hotel.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack …love it
March 4th, 2010 at 1:03 pm
I carry a Canon backpack (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Deluxe-Backpack-200EG-Cameras/dp/B00009R6TA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1267671602&sr=8-1)
I love my bag. It’s surprisingly easy to manipulate and it has tons of departments. I have so much gear that I needed this bag and it fits everything perfectly. I only wish CANON wasn’t on the front. I have another bag, it’s anonymous. I don’t know the brand, got it at a closing camera store, it fits all my gear too, which means it’s heaving on the shoulder. I really got to learn to leave some stuff at home.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
I use the Adorama Slinger. There’s a lot of bag there for the money, and it’s great for beginners like me who don’t have a ton of gear to lug around. Some of these bags mentioned in the replies are very nice, but I think you’re paying more for a name than anything else.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
I use a Kata DR467 and carried it all through Africa last summer.
I’m very pleased with the performance and quality of the bag but it’s small and difficult to use and change lenses. Because it is a backpack you can’t quickly switch lenses and you can only hold a 70-200 in the top compartment which isn’t padded and then leaves no more room.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
I use an Osprey Veer bag because
1. It doesn’t scream “I’m carrying a expensive camera equipment!”
2. It’s more comfortable than any camera bag I’ve used.
3. It holds everything I need for most shots.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
I should have spent more time choosing a bag, but as a beginner, the bag was an afterthought. I bought a bag recommended by the sales person and it was a good brand. About 2 months later I was 100% disappointed with it. The sad part about it is that its Canon brand. I don’t know the model name but it has a single shoulder strap so you have to use it over the shoulder like a purse or messenger bag, as opposed to a backpack style.
The only thing I like about it is that most non-photographers are usually intimidated by it and just give me access to photographers-only-areas once in a while, so long as I look in a hurry and have my camera hanging down my neck while walking really fast and swinging this bag on my side. As a bag, it sucks enough not to ever buy it again or recommend it, but not bad enough that I must change it right away.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
I’m using a Kata DR467. It fits my Canon Xsi, 50mm f1.4, 20-35m, EF-S 18-55mm, Speedlite 430 EX-II, mini diffuser for the flash, and a 15″ MacBookPro, power brick for the MBP, with room left over for a paperback or two and some other miscellaneous stuff to spare.
I like that it isn’t a single strap and looks like a plain black backpack instead of a camera bag. And since it fits my laptop too, I carry my camera every day.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:10 pm
Tenba Shootout Medium Backpack….its super awesome…
March 4th, 2010 at 1:10 pm
I use a think tank steroid speed belt and digital holster 50s for my cameras when shooting all day. I can get to my gear quickly, and it saves my back. A couple of accessory pouches and I’m set.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:10 pm
I’m currently using LowePro Adventura 170 but looking to buy a kata dr 467 or tamrac adventure 7 backpack for traveling. I can’t decide which one.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:10 pm
I have several camera bags with the Apollo backpack being my main bag. This is a fairly heavy backpack, but the bag is very well-suited for this. The bag has nicely padded shoulder straps and a very nice waist strap so the backpack is weighted perfectly. My other bags are a Lowepro Toploader 75 which is perfect for my 70-200 lens and a Kata W-92 which is perfect for my G-10 or 11 and the camcorder.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:11 pm
Kata DR467i and Kata 3N1-20
March 4th, 2010 at 1:13 pm
hi,
I use a Portare’ camera backpack. Its NOT black. In fact its grey and sky blue. It looks nice, and not like a traditional camera bag, guess that shows which way I lean on the choices. I still have all my stuff, so I guess that means the theft deterrent design much work a little at least.
Functionally my Portare’ backpack is great, I fit all my gear (5 lenses, and a Sony A350) along with misc stuff. I even used the really handy rain cover. Best of all, all the padding and ergonomic (mumbo jumbo) actually works, and the bag is pretty light, even with my laptop and gear in it. This is important, because I’m a small girl.
All in all I love my Portare’ bag, especially since I paid less than half of what I’d have paid for some of the more famous brands.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:16 pm
Think Tank’s Urban Disguise 30 – my new fave!
http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/urban-disguise-30-shoulder-bag.aspx
I like it because it doesn’t look like a camera bag and I can also put my personal items in it without looking too bulky.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
I just got the lowepro fastpak 200. Been using it for over a month, not bad better than my old messenger bag (man purse).
March 4th, 2010 at 1:21 pm
Lowepro Primus AW – Looks like a backpack, has a day-pack are for hiking supplies, has the side access of the slingshot, made from recycled materials, a portion of the proceeds goes to maintaining Polar Bear populations, full AW cover, excellent tripod carrier… What’s not to love?
March 4th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Kata DR467 – I carry a netbook and my Kindle and all the cords, plugs, etc that go along with those plus battery chargers, etc. I carry a Canon 30D with a Tamron 18-270 attached and a nifty 50, but if I were to carry much more, I would need something bigger.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
I love my lowepro slingbag. I love how you can wear it as a backpack and then just slide it around and have your camera right at your waist (or belly as the situation may be).
March 4th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Think Tank Urban Disguise 60, Think Tank International Airport V2 Roller, and love the ThinkTank Artificial Intelligence 15 for my laptop.
My “everyday” bag is the TTUD60. Love the bag – carries two full-size bodies, 3 lenses, and a laptop. Or, I can load two fullsize bodies on lenses and be off and running – and it doesn’t scream CAMERA INSIDE.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
Kata 3N1-30, Crumpler 7million $ home or timbik2 large classic with custom insert.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
My primary bag is a Kata DR-466i. I carry that daily as it also fits some of my work stuff. It’s built well, comfortable, and I can fit a lot into it.
If I’m on a short trip or just going out to a family event, I’ll transfer to my Tamrac Velocity 6.
I am borrowing a Crumpler Sinking Barge Deluxe to evaluate. There are a lot of things I like about it, but a lot of things I don’t. Size is one of them…I don’t see that it has too many advantages over the Kata bag. But one of it’s advantages is the divider system…incredible. Still debating.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
I realized my comment was a little bit useless since I don’t know the actual model of the bag. So I made a little video that shows it. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGjVcl_a7sQ).
I might get a lowerpro next time around, or even another better designed canon bag but not this one.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Lowepro Nova 180 AW Camera Bag
March 4th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
I use a Lowepro Slingshot 300 AW as my large camera bag for carrying around everything when I need to, and a Lowepro Toploader Zoom as my small bag for just my body and a lens.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
I currently use a Lowepro Inverse 100 AW beltpack. It works great for one or two lenses, some filters, a flash, batteries, ect. I got caught hiking in a massive rainstorm, and the cover protected my camera (plus phone) completely. I will never get another bag without the cover.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:06 pm
Another vote for the Kata DR-467. I’ve traveled internationally with this and loved it. The fold-out camera/lens storage system is ingenious–I vastly prefer it to my old Tamrac Adventure 10, where I had to lay it down to get anything out or else I ran the risk of dropping something (got rid of it after I opened it and my 100mm fell three feet onto concrete. Ugh.)
March 4th, 2010 at 2:07 pm
I use the Lowepro 200AW. I love it! It fits my two camera bodies, as well as 4 lenses. It is also very customizable.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:20 pm
I travel quite a bit and have found the best bag is just a plain ordinary cheap school type small back pack. However I first put my camera in a proper camera snoot bag which also holds a spare lens and accessories and then put the snoot bag inside the back pack. It’s easy to reach the camera as, with the help of some padding, the snoot bag positions it inside the top of the back pack.
If I am only going out for the day from home I may only use the snoot bag. The back pack is good though as it also holds a gorilla pod, flash, etc and also has an insulated compartment for food and drinks plus a small front compartment for tickets, passports, etc which I lock with a small safety pin. The same bag has been with me on many trips in India, Europe, SE Asia, Australia & NZ. Looks a bit worn now but that’s good as far as security is concerned. It’s off to India again shortly.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
Domke!
The Ruggedwear f-2 bag is awesome. does not look like a camera bag (since i tore off the labels) and fits well against my torso.
As far as features go- I dont care what it looks like as long as it does not attract unwanted attention…and allows me access to my camera in as few movements as possible.
-DanFig
March 4th, 2010 at 2:29 pm
First bag is a lowepro rezo 170 aw. Fits my 40D with the kit lens, 50mm and flash. Needless to say I outgrew it pretty quick. Bought kata sensitivity v. Held more stuff but it was a pain to get the camera. Just bought a kata 3n1-22. Gave me the extra storage I wanted and quick access to camera. I like the X strap configuration if I’m just walking around to help distribute the weight more. I walked around with it during a convention all weekend and it worked pretty well. I still keep the rezo 170 for when I’m at night clubs and such since it’s a small pack that protects the camera more than just hanging it around my neck. Main pack is the 3n1-22. The sensitivity v is just collecting dust and will probably be on ebay when I get around to it.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:33 pm
While not listed as a camera bag the Patagonia Sub Divider is very functional as a travel/camera bag whether you are using a DSLR or point and shoot. If you boat, raft, canoe, kayak etc or just want your any gear dry this is an excellent choice. It is small enough that I have to limit my photo gear to a purposeful amount. Good carry on size.
Here is the company’s description:
The Sub Divider is a compact, soft-sided boat chest that protects, hauls and organizes vital gear. Reels, fly boxes, phone, flares or lunch all reside safely within its protective custody when water-borne chaos rains down. Made from 840-denier double-polyurethane-coated nylon and patented molded top and bottom pans for waterproof protection even in standing water (up to the zipper). Welded seams eliminate leakage. Shock-absorbing high-density foam gives the bag shape. Inside, an adjustable foam divider, floating transparent panel and removable end pocket provide flexible organization. Access is through a highly water-resistant zipper with t-grip. Single, adjustable, removable, padded shoulder strap makes hauling easy. Insides can be removed and bag can be packed flat inside your luggage, then easily assembled when you reach your destination.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:33 pm
Domke F-3x. It’s wonderful. Just the right size for my 40D and 3 lenses, a few small books and all the photography miscellanea I need – in short, everything I need to enjoy an entire day. Plus it’s relatively inconspicuous, easy to work out of, and molds to my body, meaning it’s very comfortable.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:34 pm
I use the Lowepro Slingshot 200. I’m looking to get something a little smaller for just around town. I’m thinking about getting the Passport Sling. Has anyone used it?
March 4th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
One additional thing against the kata sensitivity v, not waterproof. both the lowepro rez 170 and kata 3n1-22 have all weather covers. The sensitivity could last a few minutes in a light rain but I wouldn’t keep it out any longer.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
(I really wish there was an edit option)
So of the 3 I have I’m a definite fan of the kata 3n1-22. It holds pretty much everything I need. Not sure if the netbook compartment was worth the extra money I paid but it gets used to store random documents and the netbook with an external hard drive to store pictures off camera if need be. I definately plan on sticking with sling bags for larger bags. I may have to upgrade my shoulder bag if I get a new lens but I’m in no hurry to do that.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
Lowepro Fastpack 200. I’m a heavy hiker and I’ve loved this bag since I got it in December. It’s got a camera compartment that can fit a full frame body with a telephoto lens attached, 2 zoom lenses and 2 flash units. Personally this is more thank enough because changing lenses while hiking is not something I do often. It’s got plenty of pockets for camera accessories and random things. Possibly what I like best is that the top compartment of the bag can fit a lot of water, snacks and whatever else you might need. It’s a nice bag for those people who like to go on all day hikes.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
I use 3 different bags because I can’t really find the one that is perfect for any given situation. For wedding I use a Lowepro Pro-roller x300. Traveling and when I need to be extremely mobile I use a Lowepro Primus which has plenty of room but I just wish they made a set of padded dividers for the top section of the bag. I also use a pelican 1510 case when I have to fly to a wedding. I’m still looking for a good light stand case that I can check, currently the duffel bag I use just doesn’t cut it. Maybe another pelican case…
March 4th, 2010 at 3:01 pm
I got a huge carrying case with my Nikon D3000. it was extremely difficult to carry it along. But very recently got one Tamrac Aero Zoom 3325, which is easy to carry.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:02 pm
My daily bag is a Kata DB455 messenger. I carry a body with lens, two other lenses, flash with diffuser and the requisite accessories. I can also carry a laptop when needed. Even when fully loaded, it looks like any ordinary messenger bag. It’s comfortable to carry and easy enough to get into when on the move. Like most Kata bags, it’s very well built and the materials are top notch. I plan to get another Kata bag for when I need to carry more equipment.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
I also use a small lowepro, fits my 450 with kit lens and the 50mm f/1.8 II. Weather/windproof, this bag is perfect for me
March 4th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
I love my new Crumpler 8 Million Dollar Home Messenger
March 4th, 2010 at 3:31 pm
ordered the dakine reload bag. its HUGE and carries a snowboard/skateboard. perfect for the action sports photographer like myself.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:44 pm
Tamrac Expedition 8.
Plenty of room for all my equipment and very very comfortable in price and on the back.
I also have a Green fishing case that i found at Aldi that is just for travelling abroad. Great room inside and lotsa pockets for all bits and bobs.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
I use the Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW. Good bag.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
I use the LowePro SlingShot 300 AW. Very good and solid bag and I just love the way you can easily grab your camera.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:19 pm
Kata DR467 – Best Bag Ever!
This sucker holds a LOT! I have 7 lenses (I stack a Lensbaby and a fast fifty) in the fold down compartment. Alternately, I can get 5 lenses and a body with battery pack in there. In the upper I carry a blower, diffuser, flash, cleaning cloths, Lantern Guide, tripod plates, velcro straps, an LED light, the rain cover, and a black drape cloth. In the front middle I have my lens filters (two sets of 6). Left side my spare AA batteries (8), right side my remote and spare memory card. In the laptop area I either have my MacBookPro or a photo magazine/book or my reflectors. The straps on either side are more than capable of holding a tripod. With all that its still comfortable on the shoulders and the air circulation across the back is excellent. The handles and straps all seem very well made and sturdy. The yellow interior is great for finding stuff – black shows up on yellow. The front fold down main compartment is genius. Every time I open it round crowds someone asks about it. I can go from on my back to in my hand in less than 30 seconds.
Besides the laptop area – I always travel with a laptop and my camera – the best feature of this camera bag is that it doesn’t look like a camera bag! Instead of “steal me!” is says “poor college student.” I can leave it on the front seat of my car and not tempt someone to make a quick score. Same for traveling. It just looks like a carry on. Oh, I forgot, it has a strap on the back to slide it over the handle rolling luggage or a specialized Kata cart. The rain cover is awesome and with it closed tight, the bag floats (just dont flip it over hole down!).
Im pretty abusive of my DR467 and it takes it. When I finally go to far and kill it, I will get another.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
The Crumpler Whickey and Cox. Love it!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 4:23 pm
I use a Lowepro Orion II AW, great bag and very flexible, I also have a Mini Trekker, but I found I tended to put too many things in it and it was too heavy! Great bags, I have several smaller bags in their range for other bits of kit.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
I use a Canon Deluxe Photo Backpack 200EG for my nikon D80[ + 3 lenses + lens pen + sd cards + filters + external flash + camera manual + extra batteries] …I am very happy with the bag…Plenty of room for everything makes it a good bag for taking on long trips and for storage….
But I am looking for a daily bag which will make it easier to carry the camera with me daily , which I’m currently not doing!
March 4th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
Mine is a Crumpler “Pony Box” and I love it.
It doesn’t look like a classic rectangular-grey-notFunny-photobag and it what I Like.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:38 pm
I use the Incase Sling Pack =]
March 4th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
I can’t pick one bag. I have 6 bags.. (I know, I have a problem)
1) I have a LowePro MiniTrekker, that holds almost all of my lenses, one flash unit and 2 camera bodies. this is the biggin that I hardly take out.
2) I have an old “sniper bag” that holds audio recording equipment if I need to get soundscapes or if I’m planning on recording an interview.
3) a LowePro OffRoad that has larger additional side bags than the “stock” pouches. I love this and its my go-to bag 90% of the time. its sad that they don’t make this one anymore. its the perfect bag that I sling around most of the time.
4) I have a LowePro NovaMini that holds my rangefinder stuff
5) Naneu Pro Lima bag, I like this when I need to have some stealth. fits one SLR with a large zoom & room for an aditional flash or secondary lens, and room for a netbook.
6) a burlap bag with some foam spacers. I use this bag when I want to travel really light with an SLR and a prime and not much else.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
I am now using the Kata DR465 for quite a while. Although it really is a good backpack for short trips, it has to little capacity for my needs.
I am planning on buying the Lowepro Computrekker. Has anyone tried that one out?
I would like to hear your opinions on it.
Greetz Philipp
March 4th, 2010 at 4:49 pm
I use a Mountainsmith Borealis as my main gear bag and a Mountainsmith Lumbar with the insert installed from the Borealis. You can see the Borealis setup here on flicker.
I love these packs very, very much and they do NOT look like a camera bag.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:49 pm
I am now using the Kata DR 465 as my Camera bag. Although it has a fair amount of capacity, it is to small for me:-(
I am planning on buying the Lowepro Computrekker. Has anyone tried that one out? I would like to hear your opinions on it
Greetz Philipp
March 4th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
I use a $30 bag bought from a street-side stall and modified with some foam and inserts bought from the hardware store. It carries my camera, 14-54 f2.8-3.5, 50-200 f2.8-3.5, 50 f1.4 and flashgun. Best part, it looks like a ratty messenger bag with nothing of value in it.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:29 pm
Depends on what and where I am shooting.
#1 On a vacation that involves international flights.
#1.1) Fastpack 200 is my carry on bag and for those day excursions.
Will have two camera + lenses (mounted) + 1 an additional lens and some personal stuff.
#1.2 I will also have a smallish (Think Tank) holster case, in my checked baggage for those times a backpack is inappropriate.
#2 for those shoots where I am not 100% sure of what I will need and will not need to be very mobile.
Think Tank Airport Antidote backpack: It will hold everyhting – including spare flashguns I will need.
#3 For those times I need to take water bottles/wet weather gear as well as a fair amount of camera gear possibly a snack:
Think Thank Glass Taxi + a Think Tank speed belt with a couple of water nbottle holders.
#4 For those times when I am wearing a media/safety vest (shooting motor sport) It will be a think Tank Harness system with the appropriate pouches/holsters attached. Also used when I want to travel very light.
#5 For events where I need to be mobile and a harness sytem is inappropriate – a Think Tank Speed Racer Beltpack with possibly a pouch or two attached.
#6 For those “formal ocasions” I have a couple of Think Tank Urban Disguise bags.
and for general purpose shooting I have a Domke F4AF shoulder bag.
.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:30 pm
I’m a long time Lowepro user until. last year when I started to move to Kata. My bag was a mini-trekker which survived through a lot of abuse over the years.
Currently I own:
A Calumnet light stand bag.
Lowepro Mini-trekker – at present this is my go to bag as it carries nearly everything I need for my main camera.
Kata W-94 – used to store accessories, flash guns and other equipment.
Soon to be purchased: Kata R-106
Numerous Pelican cases. Mainly for studio gear or transport over long distances.
March 4th, 2010 at 6:02 pm
WOW, I can only dream that there is the one perfect bag for all my gear, but till then I will continue to use my various bags (Lowepro, Pelican, ThinkTank). I will say one thing, if you are concerned about security and keeping a low profile, my ThinkTank Urban Disguise fits just the bill. While on a trip to Italy, the customs agent was surprised to see that what I was carrying was actually a camera bag.
March 4th, 2010 at 6:03 pm
I use the Lowpro Stealth Reporter D650 AW, this bag rocks! I travel a lot and need to take everything with me always, this bag can handle it. Yes, it weighs a bit, but until they start selling helium balloon attachments to bigger bags…expect it. I wouldn’t go on a hike with it, but that’s not why I use it. I carry a Cannon T1i, 2 extra batteries, charger, 18-55mm, 55-250mm, 4 & 8 GB SD cards, filter kit, speed light 580EX with extra batteries, 500 GB travel external hard drive, Polaroid Pogo printer, Mag light, 16 GB i-touch with charger, Sony noise canceling headphones, Sony Cyber-shot point & shoot camera with battery charger, 15inch Macbook, wireless mouse, Wacom tablet an Pen, and note books. I love the accessibility, very easy to find everything. I did do a lot a research for what I needed and don’t regret it. The bag works as a great tail bag with plenty of ways to attach it for when I ride my motorcycle (built in rain cover..excellent!). This bag gets 5 stars from me. I use it every day!
March 4th, 2010 at 6:13 pm
Mine’s a Tamrac 5768 and I’m completely in love with it http://www.tamrac.com/frame_velocity.htm
It’s the best so far, across body and I just flip the top open for my gear. Didn’t enjoy my Lowepro backpack or bag in the same way – the Tamrac just becomes a part of my body. Brilliant bag … oh, but I’m raving.
March 4th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
Lowepro Primus AW I love it. It can carry all my gear, plus my netbook, diapers for my kids, my lunch… Everything I need on any kind of trip. Plus, it is very solid and comfortable.
On the downside, as flechtight says, the side opening is sometime a little bit too small, and the bag is heavy. And for short outdoor shooting sessions, I just carry my camera in a small toploading bag that I put in my daily shoulder bag.
March 4th, 2010 at 6:57 pm
The slingshot is perfect in every respect except one – before you buy it think which shoulder you prefer to carry a bag on. As a right handed woman I always carry a handbag on my left shoulder to leave my right hand free. The slingshot sits on the right shoulder and I just can’t get used to it – my shoulder and neck ache after a very short time. I have polled quite a few friends and find I am not unusual – most women carry their bag on the opposite shoulder to their handedness, so the manufacturers probably don’t realise it but they have designed their bag for left-handed women. Men tend not to carry a shoulder bag on a daily basis so it may not be a problem for them.
Anyway, I am about to sell the slingshot because I have just bought a Kata 3n1 and it is wonderful. It is so comfortable I forget I am wearing it. It can be worn on either shoulder or both, which is great for a long day out. It holds everything I need. It got the gold award in a photography magazine product review but luckily for me doesn’t seem to be selling very well in the UK as I got the last one in the sale for a bargain price.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:04 pm
My choice fell on the Kata 465i.
I fell in love with 467i, but my budget was less
Bye
March 4th, 2010 at 7:05 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 300 AW most of the time, but Lowepro CompuTreker when I’m traveling with my computer. Both hold about the same camera gear and fit easy in the overhead of airplanes. The Slingshot is handy in that you don’t have to take it off to get stuff out of it like the CompuTreker.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:10 pm
+1 for the Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW. Love it.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:15 pm
2 bags for different purposes.
Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW for walking about.
Lowepro Classified 250 AW for traveling. Carries 2 bodies, multiple lenses and MacBook on those long haul trips when I must take a laptop with me.
Great bags both of them!
March 4th, 2010 at 7:30 pm
I own one of these, it costs virtually nothing, holds all my kit and I don’t look like a daft poser carrying it:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Hama-Track-Pack-II-Rucksack/dp/B000EOMQO0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1267694968&sr=1-1
Even then, I don’t tend to carry it much, preferring to keep my lenses in the pocket of my coat. A camera in a bag is a useless camera!.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:31 pm
Oh, and there’s a lot of man-bag talk going on here!
March 4th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
I have two bags; a Kata 467 and Crumpler Bunnyman.
I love them both, and both have there own purpose; the Kata is great for travel, the Crumpler is great walkaround bag.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
I use a Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW, and very happy I am with it too!
March 4th, 2010 at 7:47 pm
The Lowepro slingshot is indeed a good bag, well fitted for an SLR and several lenses but it has (like most camera bags) at least two problems:
1- It screams loud and clear “I have an expesive camera, please rob me”
2- Since it’s designed only to be a camera bag, you can only fit there camera stuff, since there’s no extra space for stuff like say a water bottle.
Currently my favorite bag is the National Geographic Shoulder bag (I think I have the medium one). You can see it here:
http://www.amazon.com/National-Geographic-NG-2475-Explorer/dp/B000FJ2OTG
Not only it’s discreet enough to not advertise that you’re carrying a camera (specially if you remove the “national geographic” logo from it) but it’s flexible and has enough space to carry other stuff besides your camera equipment. Also the shoulder strap is adjustable so you can carry it either cross shoulder or not.
Although it’s not fully weather proof it can resist water very well, and it has 4 extra pockets wich are very nice to store stuff like memory cards, filters, bateries, etc.
Since i like to travel, extra space is very valuable and in this bag I can carry not only my main camera (Olympus E-3) with one extra lense, but also a small one (Panasonic LX3), a water bottle and even a small sweater and jacket.
I highly recommend this one, specially if you tend to travel a lot.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
I think I’ve used pretty much all of them…. I’ve settled on and am now working with http://www.thinktankphoto.com
(I look after their Twitter, Flickr and some of the Facebook stuff too)
I use an Airport Takeoff roller when the going is heavy… I use a Streetwalker HD as my regular backpack… I have a Speed Racer for music gigs as it’s great to strap around my waist… And I have a DigitalHolster50 for those times when I don’t want to take a load of gear, just a camera & 24-70 and maybe one extra little lens (50) and head out for a walk… Oh, and I also have a code you can use as a dPS reader to get yourself a free extra little bag when you buy something via the thinkTANK website…
http://www.thinktankphoto.com/affiliates.aspx?code=AP-223 <- Especially for dPS Peeps…
I was in Stu Crumpler's tiny, oil drum fire heated shop in Brunswick St when he was making bags by hand (I was riding my bike around his shop, actually) and I've had a long list of Lowepro bags – not bad, but didn't have everything I wanted… And, the list goes on… But I've settled on thinkTANK.
Sime
March 4th, 2010 at 8:03 pm
I do a lot of hiking and shooting on the street. I tried a Lowepro backpack and I hated it. Cumbersome and being a small woman, it was too much and didn’t fit right.
I bought a cheap camera bag at a big store known for it’s cheapness. I believe it was actually for a camcorder.
It has a flat side and interior and exterior pockets, an adjustable main interior space and is weatherproof. My Pentax K10D with the 18-250mm lens fits perfectly.
I take the strap, put it around my neck and put the bag against my back where it rests quite comfortably. When I need to use the camera, I just swing the bag to the front. Works like a charm.
It is now two years old, used on almost a daily basis and is still in great shape.
If I want to carry an extra lens, I use a compact camera belt bag for it.
I’ve kept the Lowepro because it was so expensive and I keep thinking that some day, I’ll use it but that day never seems to come. Maybe time for an eBay auction.
I’m not putting Lowepro down. I read the reviews and they did mention that it could be uncomfortable for smaller people.
March 4th, 2010 at 8:06 pm
I use a Lowepro Topload Zoom 1 for going walking with just one camera/lens to keep the weight to a minimum. Pro for this is that it is very light and easy to get camera in and out, con for this is that it only fits with our standard lens but not the big zoom lens.
When going on holiday or going away I use a Crumpler New Dehli 510 to take all our gear and a laptop but this gets heavy over long distant walks. Pros for this bag are the extremely good quality of the bag, plenty of padding and space for all the equipment and internal camera pouch can be taken out, only con is that it can get a bit heavy with all the gear but then you would expect this from a big bag that fits lots of stuff.
March 4th, 2010 at 8:14 pm
I just bought a Lowepro Fastpack 350 last week & I’m loving it! nice side-access pocket for my camera + room for another 3 lenses and flash attachments. and another pocket up top for everyday stuff (seeing as I always carry my camera around with me)
March 4th, 2010 at 8:20 pm
No camera bag – I use whatever bag is being used as the kiddies diaper bag, and then use their spare clothes, sweaters, extra diapers (we use cloth diapers) etc as padding. The main bag I use is a large over the shoulder Crumpler. I had bought the camera pouch insert, but hardly ever use it. My gear is a D90 with the 18-200, and the 35mm f1.8. Sometimes an SB-600 will get thrown in there as well.
As for my G11 – it just goes in my jacket pocket straight up.
My dedicated camera bag (some sort of Tamrac sling bag) just sits at home as the storage space for the gear.
March 4th, 2010 at 8:26 pm
KATA 3N1-30 For full gear (D700 attached with MB-D10 + 70-200mm vr ii, 24-70mm 2.8, 50mm 1.4G, 1 SB-600 Flash.
Still have some space left for maybe an 85mm 1.4? or another 50mm and top compartment is pretty empty for other stuff like ipod, books, mini drive, etc. No laptop compartment though (my laptop is 17″ too big anyway).
Crumpler 7 Million Dollar Home – Fits all of the above but uncomfortable due to the shoulder bag nature, I usually load it with less gears
March 4th, 2010 at 9:06 pm
I don’t use a camera bag at all. First, I like to travel light. Secondly, I like to travel safe. A camera bag, no matter how well disguised still looks like one, or at the very least, looks like a nice bag. I’m a 105 lb. girl, usually walking alone through twisty corridors in Asia, Middle East, and Europe. Sometimes I blend in, often I don’t. I don’t like to give people any more reasons to pay attention to me. Especially not for financial gain.
I usually go and buy a purse. Black. No patterns. Not interesting. Doesn’t look expensive. Ir’s big enough to put my Canon T1I into it. I like my purses/bags to have some form, so it can somewhat protect the camera and not give away by shape what’s inside. Also, a purse is nice because it says under my arm at all times, never behind me. I can unzip and take out my camera quickly, and I can always have a hand on the zipper. No one will be able to sneak it out/or cut it out from behind (some thieves are wicked good).
Plus a purse lets me carry around everything else I could need: wallet/toilet paper/antibac/etc etc…
March 4th, 2010 at 9:25 pm
I use a Lowepro Fastpack 200, nice for daytrips with a couple lenses. I want to get a second bag for travel that will also hold one of my laptops.
March 4th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
I have a Lowepro Slingshot 100 AW, but I´m looking for a bag for trekking and another for photowalks, my two initial choices are the Lowepro Primus AW for trekking /hikking and the Crumpler 6 Million Dollars for some urban style.
March 4th, 2010 at 9:45 pm
My personal favorites are the Crumpler Whickey and Cox for taking everything (https://www.crumpler.com.au/flash/flash.aspx#/english/product-details/whickey-and-cox-wc03a.html) and Crumpler 5 Million Dollars (https://www.crumpler.com.au/flash/flash.aspx#/english/product-details/5-million-dollar-home-md0507a.html) for everyday. All their bags are waterproof, hard-waring and look great!
March 4th, 2010 at 10:06 pm
Lowepro Flipside 300. Holds a body, a few lenses, flash, batteries, cables, cards, etc. Very compact though, so it’s nice to carry around.
March 4th, 2010 at 10:10 pm
Crumpler
March 4th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
Am sorry to say but I generally use a diaper bag that looks more like a tote! It’s padded and easy to carry on shoulder and doesn’t weigh 10 lbs…
March 4th, 2010 at 10:26 pm
I’m a crumpler addict !
Messenger Boy half photo backpack
http://www.crumplereurope.com/?product=Messenger_Boy_Half_Photo_Backpack&page=details&product_id=MBHBP-008&view=6&ignore_color=
Really nice and comfortable.
You may like a turtle but who cares ? :p
No really i recommand this bag. Tested during my travel in israel in rain condition, wind, dust etc…
I love it.
March 4th, 2010 at 10:29 pm
I have kata-bag DR 467 for laptop and camera bag with 55-200mm and sb-600. And also i have crumpler 5 million, for every day uses.
March 4th, 2010 at 10:52 pm
National Geographic City Explorer, great bag
March 4th, 2010 at 10:57 pm
I use Lowepro AW200 Slingshot bag.. I brought this after a lot of market search and recommendation. It’s been true to all the facts,
1) Easy move around your body to take out/ restore camera.
2) All weather protector shield
3) Enough space to carry 2-3 additional lenses.
4) Separate compartments to store all the cables, charger, filters & memory cards etc.
March 4th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
Crumpler Customary Barge.
Though I would like the newer version which holds a tripod and water bottles.
March 4th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
I use a Pelican case with a customizable foam inner. Its waterproof, it floats, hard shelled and is lockable. I have a Sony alpha, 4 lenses, filters, shutter release and other accessories and there is still room for more. You can get them in almost any size and there are many configurations.
March 4th, 2010 at 11:25 pm
Depends on what I’m doing, My most frequently used bag is my crumpler 8 million dollar home, but if I’m out on a specific assignment then I’m probably using Think Tanks speed belt system. I also have 3 other bags that I use mostly for travelling
March 4th, 2010 at 11:28 pm
Like so many others, I have a few bags so that I have options depending on where I am traveling.
I just recently discovered the most amazing and stylish women’s tote camera bags from *emera. They are designed specifically to not look like a camera bag but easily hold enough equipment for travel. http://www.emerabags.com/
Another favorite is the Tamrac Expedition 5 backpack which is great for domestic trips or outings when I wish to take more equipment with me. And I have the Lowpro messenger bag that I used in Mexico recently and it was a great smaller bag to use while exploring the sites: http://www.amazon.com/Lowepro-Exchange-Messenger-Camera-Gray/dp/B002PK14VC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=photo&qid=1267708621&sr=1-3
March 4th, 2010 at 11:38 pm
Another vote for the Kata 467i. It fits my two Cannon Digital Rebels (with the kit lenses attached) well in the bottom compartment, along with a macro lens. The flash fits in the top compartment along with other misc stuff I need. Its built very well, I highly recommend it.
March 4th, 2010 at 11:45 pm
I use the Lowepro Fastpack 250 in travel
March 5th, 2010 at 12:07 am
I’ve used many over-the-shoulder bags over the years (Bingham, Lowe-Pro, Karrimor, Tenba) and for a long time used a US-made fishing vest for 35mm kit. That was brilliant for my – by modern standards – diminutive Pentax LX system. On migrating to a more bulky Canon EOS digital system I chose the Lowepro AW100 Slingshot.
The Slingshot is an excellent design, allowing fast access to the main compartment on the hoof and, with its waist strap, secure enough to hike or bike in comfort. The cover-all rain protection works and provides additional security when you’re travelling – quick access to all those inviting pockets is denied the would-be thief. Lowepro are well-made; mine’s had a couple of years heavy use and shows no sign of disintegrating.
The AW100 is their smallest and perfectly sized for a body, a couple or three lenses and extras but a tad small if you have an extra body and/or four lenses to carry. The 200 would be better. The bigger bags are not so easy to swing around your body for that ease of access.
March 5th, 2010 at 12:10 am
My everyday bag is the Lowepro SlingShot 300. I recently up-sized from the 200 as I carry my camera with me most everywhere. For hiking I use the Lowepro Primus AW as it can carry survival gear, extra layers and my tripod in addition to my photography gear. On the rare occasion that I don’t bring my DSLR I carry my Canon g9 in the Op/Tech Zippeez.
March 5th, 2010 at 12:14 am
I have two bags plus an assortment of smaller accessory pouches to deal with different situations.
I have a nice little, plain black Optex brand travel bag from when I shot film in an old AE1, Functional space with an included travel style tripod.
I did have one of the Lowepro bags but it didn’t have the capacity I was looking for so I dumped it in favour of a Tamrac Pro 8 bag. I doubt I’d go back to Lowepro. Call me old fashioned and frumpy but I find their current offerings are becoming fashion statements as much as they might be good, functional storage. Not where I want to go, thanks.
The accessory pouches are a mix of Tamrac and Think Tank.
March 5th, 2010 at 12:24 am
I use a lowepro Classified-250-AW it’s a little large but I can carry everything I need for a full field shoot
March 5th, 2010 at 12:43 am
I use a lesser-known brand, backpack style camera bag. It’s good sized to hold all my lenses and equipment, but does not necessarily look like a camera bag. I really like the quick access flap that allows me to store my Nikon D80 with almost any lens attached. So far, I’ve really liked this step up from my old Tamrac bag.
March 5th, 2010 at 12:45 am
I’ve got a medium Nat.Geo Shoulder bag.
http://www.vistek.ca/store/BagsCases/235017/national-geographic-bags-medium-shoulder-bag.aspx
I like to think it looks a bit more descrete than the usual suspects and its perfect for my everyday needs. It easily holds a D300+grip, flash, extra lens, batteries, and lots more. Only issue is the bag comes with a padded notebook compartment which is slightly too small to fit a 15″ MBP in it, however it will hold a 13″ no prob.
I also bought some Nikwax waterproofing spray to help keep the bag dry. Haven’t been caught in a downpour yet so no word on how well the stuff actually works.
http://www.nikwax.com/en-gb/products/productdetail.php?productid=498&activityid=1
March 5th, 2010 at 12:49 am
Mine is a Kata R-103. I have this bag for a while, but haven’t used too much (a smaller bag is good enough for me in general). Now I’m planning to this Kata in the Ecuadorian rainforest…
March 5th, 2010 at 1:01 am
I use a Tamrac Expedition 5 Backback for most situations. It fits my D700 w/ battery grip, a 24-70 f/2.8, a 100mm macro, a 50mm 1.8, a HD camcorder, and several accessories such as remote triggers, cloths, filters, etc. I can also throw my netbook in a protective case and slide it in the outside pocket. Finally, if I’m going out for a long walk, I can secure my Feisol tripod to the outside of the bag to keep my hands free.
I also just won a ThinkTank Streetwalker Pro Backpack and a ThinkTank Airport International v2.0. The Streetwalker is a great little bag, but I don’t find myself using it, as it doesn’t fit my entire kit. And, if I’m heading out to shoot I want all my tools with me.
The Airport hasn’t arrived yet. But it’ll probably come in handy on my international trips to China…
March 5th, 2010 at 1:09 am
I use the Tamrac Aero Speedpack 75 and love it. Room for a few lenses, a compartment for everyday stuff, and a fast access door. I also don’t think it particularly looks like a camera bag to the untrained eye.
March 5th, 2010 at 1:10 am
I’ve got a Tamrac Adventure 7 backpack and just got a Jill-e carryall (black with multi-color dots, very cute, reasonably priced, weather resistant fabric, wipes clean). I like the Adventure 7 for some situations, but wanted something that didn’t look so outdoorsy for other situations. I’m still working out the configuration for the Jill-e, but it comes with a whole bunch of dividers, so I have lots of options and just need to figure out what works for me. I really like that it doens’t look like a camera bag, and I like that the flap has magnetic closures not clips, so it is easy access. I wear it as a messenger bag, so not having the clips isn’t an issue with me worring about someone opening it up and stealing something out. It also seems to have room for my wallet and maybe even my P&S.
March 5th, 2010 at 1:34 am
I use a Lowepro slingshot 100AW and recently bought a Kata 3n2, pretty amazing camera bag!
March 5th, 2010 at 1:46 am
Domke F-3 (?) Backpack in tan canvas. One zip and all my gear is in plain sight, plus there’s an extra compartment on top for snacks, books, doodads, etc. Took it hiking last fall 4 miles up and down a mountain as the straps are very padded and comfortable. After carrying it around gymansiums and ballfields for a couple of years, it looks like something no one would want to touch, let alone steal. Best thing is that I can throw it in the washing machine!
March 5th, 2010 at 2:08 am
As an amatuer i have a Lowepro Flipside 200, which is just big enough for my Canon Rebel XT with a short lens attached, a 70-300 zoom, flip video camera, and a small external hardrive. along with all the cords and cables necessary. The Lowepro Flipside opens from the side touching your back. no thievery here.
http://products.lowepro.com/product/Flipside-200,2082,14.htm
March 5th, 2010 at 2:13 am
No mention of a gun case? Mine has custom tear away foam blocks, so I add room for each new accessory. The hard case has been dropped and smashed countless times with no damage whatsoever. Mine is from Bass Pro, walked in with my DSLR and bought the one that it fit into.
And in action:
March 5th, 2010 at 2:15 am
After purchasing my first dSLR (Rebel XSi) in December, I bought a Lowepro Verspak 200AW backpack for it. The top part fits my 10″ netbook (didn’t like the packs made for larger computers), and the bottom (camera) section fits my needs nicely (camera + kit lens + 55-250mm + 50mm prime, plus room for a flash later). I bought it mainly for travel, but have been using it as my all-around bag.
However, after reading another article on this site, I just purchased a custom bag from Martilena (formerly Wicked Stitch) – waiting for delivery! The config of the bag I ordered is based exactly on the camera section of the Versapak 200AW (which I love), but this bag will be WAY more compact than the full backpack for those times when I’m not toting the netbook (which is most of the time, when I’m local).
March 5th, 2010 at 2:24 am
ThinkTank belt system with digital holster
March 5th, 2010 at 2:28 am
BOOQ Python Blur
and a ShootSac
… works great!
March 5th, 2010 at 2:32 am
While I love the Lowepro Slignshot for the ease of use and access, it was very obviously NOT designed for a woman with a chest of any kind. I have stopped using it for the most part due to how uncomfortable it can become, and the wretched things it does to the shape of my upper body. Especially with the extra strap that come across your chest to clip in to the larger strap.
I have recently switched to the Henry’s 100th Anniversary backpack, but am thinking of going with a belt system in the near future. While the backpack is great for getting my gear to and from a shoot, attempting to change lenses during a shoot has become a major pain.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:33 am
I have several bags, but the best i have found is the F-Stop Tilopa back-pack from the States. Weather proof zips, comfortable on the back, with separate internal camera compartment. Loads of space – Key feature is that the access is against your back when its on, so totally secure from sticky fingers. Recommned anyone to check out the entire range.
http://fstopgear.com
March 5th, 2010 at 2:34 am
LowePro Slingshot 200 AW!!!!
Fits everything I need. My Gorillapod in the top compartiment. Body and all my lenses and flash in the bottom. When I travel I even put my netbook on in the bottom compartment at well. One Carry on! Genius! It also has great little pokets for extra batteries, flash cards, remotes and chargers. Super easy access to your equipment, just swing around and unzip. Also I don’t think this bag “screams I”M A CAMERA BAG” like others do.
I’m 5’6′, female. It fits comfortably on my back and have gone walking around strange places all day with it on (From Boston to Mumbai!) ….I really love this bag.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:40 am
I use a Naneu Pro Alpha backpack. Its a very good bag that doesn’t really look like a camera bag, unless you have a tripod strapped to it. The bag is a bit small if you want to hold a lot of gear but I have a 70-200mm f/2.8L IS attached to my camera, a 35mm f/2.0 and a 580EX II flash, between all of that the camera part of the bag is full but the top compartment is left empty for holding what every else I need.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:42 am
I have the Lowepro Computrekker and it has suited my purposes quite well. I can fit about 5 or 6 lenses, including my 70-200, 1 body and flash comfortably. All the necessary accoutrements, travel documentation, wallet, gum, tylenol, keys and my laptop fit easily into the extra segments. It’d suggest you put your laptop in first, as wider-screen models fit a bit snugly, then add your photo gear. Also it was fairly inexpensive, compared to the next model up (which ran about $350).
March 5th, 2010 at 2:42 am
I have a LowePro shoulder bag that came as part of a bundle when I bought my camera. It’s fine, but I’ve found it very cumbersome on hiking trips, so I’ve actually just ordered a Caselogic TBC-307 backpack & am hoping this will be more comfortable to carry on hiking trips
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001T0HYJA/ref=oss_product
It’s very affordable & was looking for either a backpack or a slingpack.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:47 am
I started with a Tamrac & a Crumpler Pretty Boy. My gear has since out grown these. I currently have a Lowepro Slingshot 300 & I’m considering a Billingham Hadley Pro. I do like the Slingshot but I’m finding it cumbersome & heavy when walking any great distances. So I’m thinking of up grading to the Trecker Pro or something similar.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:48 am
i use LowePro CompuTrekker Aw Plus Pro
March 5th, 2010 at 2:56 am
Think Tank Rotation 360°
I love everything about this bag. The build quality, comfort and most important, the storage. It’s perfect for the gear that I have even my tripod. I have hiked all day with this pack full of stuff and it never failed to please. There is even the ability to strap an extra bag to the bottom with all of my weather gear and a rolled up closed cell pad. I totally trust it!
March 5th, 2010 at 3:01 am
CALUMENT is the brand.
Don’t know who makes it for them, BUT
they have the best selection for the day shooter through the “I don’t care how much it weighs” traveler.
And, can’t beat the reasonable pricing – very very competitive.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:04 am
Domke F-803 Satchel
It’s great for carrying my D200, 2 lenses and a flash. If i leave the flash at home I can carry it all easily with the larger lens on the body, if not it’s a slightly tight fit to to close the clasp, but still all fits with a lens on the body.
I love it because it’s very durable, not too big, and it does not scream “this is a bag with expensive gear in it!”. it’s also slim, which is great for walking around crowded areas.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:07 am
Hi,
I use 4 bags, but two really stand out as my work-horse bags. I’ll cover those first.
The 6 million Dollar Crumpler- My daily run around town doing errands bag. It carries my D90 mounted with an all purpose 35mm f/2, or 17-35mm. The 70-300mmVR is just too tall for the this bag when mounted.
My keys, reading glasses, spare battery, mem. card, wallet, cell phone, lipstick, lens cloth, and sometimes my speed-light. I’ve substituted this bag for a purse.
Lowepro Computrekker- This is my long haul travel, and hiking bag. This is the bag I take to camera club outings and Meet-up events. It holds my camera mounted with a lens. Long or short doesn’t matter both fit nicely. Alternate lens for a different kind of shot. I tuck in the 35mm or 50mm often. My filter holders, filters, lens cloth, release cable, spare battery, small note pad & pencil, Tylenol, rain coat for both myself and camera, beanie style hat, gloves, gum, snacks, lunch, cell phone, spare lens cap + rear cap, two water bottles. Although I’ve added two bottle bags to hang on the side loops for the water, maps if I can get one of the area, and last but not least my tripod.
Also I own and use the:
Lowepro Flipside 300. This is the bag I use for short stretch out my legs hikes, and touring around my area for a day. Usually I take only 2 lenses a wide and tele, spare battery, mem. cards, cell phone, wallet, one water bottle, Circular Pol, and ND grad filters + holder, and tripod.
My least used bag is the Crumpler 7 million bag. I find it too big for daily errands and too small for 1/2 day events or long haul days.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:11 am
I’ve used the Lowepro Slingshot 100AW, which is an excellent bag. It fit my Olympus E-500 with 14-45 lens on the body, with an extra lens and external flash comfortably. The shoulder strap is very comfortable, although I like the concept of two straps better, to better distribute the weight. This was an excellent bag for travelling, due to its size, and I really like being able to grab the camera out of the side of the bag, without opening the whole case to get it out.
Since I have now acquired more equipment, I recently bought the Tamrac 3385. This bag also uses the concept of the side access, which I really like. The selling feature for me on this Tamrac is that it also has a separate compartment for a laptop. Any trips we take, I am sure to take the camera AND the laptop along, so it saves me from carrying two bags. This case also has waterproof zippers on some compartments. Even though I’ve only had this bag for a few months, I am very pleased with it.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:15 am
LowePro Slingshot 300. I generally use it as my “base of operations” bag while using a LowePro Nova on excursions when I know I only need a few limited items. I absolutely love the Slingshot, but admittedly it gets a bit heavy with all my gear in it. That said, it’s nice having a single, comfortable bag that will carry a body, 16-50 2.8, 70-210 2.8, 90mm 2.8 Macro, light meter, two speedlights, filters, cleaning gear, radio triggers, cables, memory cards, manuals, etc. I think I’ll wear it out before I ever think or replacing it.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:25 am
I use a bag from *emera (http://www.emerabags.com).
It’s stylish, cute, you can customize the insides with movable padded slots so I can fit my camera, couple of lenses, flash, cables, wallet, makeup, and a laptop.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:26 am
I am a big fan of getting a bag that looks great and works. My favorite has been the Incase Sling Pack. It holds enough equipment, and is sure to not stand out in the NYC streets. Its also super comfortable and durable.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:29 am
A Tamarac shoulder bag for light, short trips. Comfortable, but holds the body and 3 lenses and NO extras.
A ThinkTank Streetwalker for longer City travel, holds a few extras but has a low profile that works well on Metros and in other crowded places.
A Tenba Daypack, for when I want all my gear and want extras for bad weather or other reasons. Bulky and weighty, but carries the load.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:29 am
I actually use a Get Into The Game bag. I bought it 10-ish years ago to carry my N64 console around. It hold my 35mm camera, my video camera, small toolkit, tapes, film, and my photography book. It has space left I just don’t have many accessories and such yet.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:37 am
i use a crumpler, a big one, with space for a couple of bodies, several lenses, a notebook, all my bits and bobs. i love it.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:40 am
I’ve had just about every brand, but I finally landed on the Domke line of bags. It’s hard to describe, but they just seem to hold so much more than you think by looking at them.
I’ve found the following combinations very hard to beat:
For one body and a couple of lenses, the Domke F-4AF
For two bodies and 4-5 lenses, the Domke F-7AF
For a laptop, two bodies and 3-4 lenses, the Domke J-812
March 5th, 2010 at 3:44 am
There is no magic, 1 bag for all situations. I have a few for different purposes. The Lowepro Rover II is my hiking/trekking bag. It’ll carry a body, a couple lenses, and accessories down in the belly, but it has TONS of room for either more photo gear or hiking stuff up in the top. It’s super padded, has a rain cover, tripod pocket and is built like a tank. My location/work bag is a Lowepro Stealth Reporter 650. I lug it to and from work and shoots and it carries my 15″ MBP, 1-2 bodies, 3-4 lenses, 3-4 flashes, Wacom, and a ton of both photo and computer accessories. It is HEAVY when it’s loaded up and it SCREAMS photog, so I don’t lug it too far and not into unfamiliar territory. My photowalk/stealth bag is a green canvas ammo bag I bough at army surplus and made custom foam inserts for. It holds 1 body, 2-3 lenses, flash, and accessories, and looks pretty inconspicuous. I feel pretty safe walking around with it, but honestly, if I were a thief, any guy walking around with a man purse seems like someone who has something I might want. So, just be aware of your surroundings.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:45 am
I drive a lot and fly occasionally so I’ve been using a Lowepro Computrekker AW supplemented by a Canon 2400 gadget bag with all partitions removed.
The Computrekker carries everything: a big SLR with grip and 24-70mm attached, a 70-200 f/2.8 with hoods for both, a 50mm f/1.8, 580EX Speedlite in it’s case, ST-E2, a 15″ laptop with bulky AC/DC combo charger, battery charger, filters, assorted cables, card reader, spare phone, extra batteries and memory cards, cleaning cloth and assorted junk. This goes everywhere with me and is usually belted into seat rather than being left to roll around in the trunk. In a pinch, I’ll shoot from it, but only if I have no other choice.
For walking around and shooting, the gadget bag goes diagonally from right shoulder to left hip and gets filled only with what’s needed, usually 1 extra lens with hood reversed, a microfiber cloth, lens pen, rocket blower, extra memory cards, maybe a flash with spare batteries if I didn’t put one on the camera, a poncho folded flat and sometimes a p&s. Occasionally I’ll use the loops to carry a tripod or small light stand. Camera goes on shoulder with the other lens attached.
March 5th, 2010 at 3:49 am
Kata KT D-3N1-20
March 5th, 2010 at 3:52 am
I’ve been so frustrated trying to find the perfect camera bag for years, i finally gave up and modified a bag to my own needs.
This bag is a Dakine Heli Pro DLX 16L:
http://www.actionvillage.com/160-079-0017
So great. It is super durable, waterproof and rugged, and it doesn’t look like I am carrying around $10,000 worth of gear.
I have added some custom made inserts for the camera and lenses, and use this bag to carry a Canon 5D MK II, 580 Speedlight, 70-200 lens, 24-70 lens, H2 audio recorder, a 17-inch MacBook Pro, a mini tripod strapped to the outside, and my 1TB hard drive when I need it, cords, cables, thumb drives, etc and with room to spare for extras.
Also, it has a waist strap for when I am climbing something, running, or on a bike (I am in SF).
Great bag. Highly recommended. Super durable, still looks and performs like the day I got it 2 years ago.
James
__________________________________
http://www.twitter.com/jamesco
http://news.cnet.com/full-frame
March 5th, 2010 at 3:55 am
Kata DS-465i. Very best and lightweight bag. I have a Canon Rebel T1i plus 18-55mm and 70-200mm lenses and occupies half of space
March 5th, 2010 at 3:58 am
I use Crumpler’s Six Million Dollar Home and have lugged my D200 with 50mm and 18-200mm zoom lenses, an SB-800, and various other accessories around in that for about 3 years now. It’s about the perfect size to hold all my gear and I’d be hesitant to go much bigger.
If I got new equipment I’d probably look into a backpack as the shoulder bag is already pretty heavy. But, I’m in the middle of a Photo365 project and carry it pretty much everywhere, every day, and still love it. My left shoulder may be permanently lower than my right, but that’s okay
That being said, I actually prefer that this looks more like a diaper bag than a camera bag as it might be somewhat less attractive to thieves – not that I leave it unattended anywhere, but it only takes a second of looking away to lose it. Like others who’ve commented, this has also doubled as a purse when necessary!
March 5th, 2010 at 4:00 am
I’ve been using the LowePro Slingshot 300 for a couple years now and love it. The first time I used it I hiked several miles and it was comfortable the whole time. Now I’ve expanded by camera and lens inventory, so I’m going to be looking for a good backpack to pack it all in. My main requirement is that it must fit in the overhead compartments of the smaller commuter jets. I’ll probably still use the Slingshot for everyday camera carrying and the backpack when I’m travelling.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:00 am
I use a Lowepro Compuday pack for all of my gear. It holds a ton; Canon 30D body, no less than 6 lenses including 2 large telephoto/supertelephotos and lots of filters, a Speedlite and a laptop.
For active trips with smaller kit I use a Lowepro Topload Zoom AW. It holds my body with a decent sized lens attached (usually a 70-200mm f/2.8 L USM) with room for a smaller lens, flash and backup batteries.
For urban excursions and when I don’t want a bag that screams “camera gear inside!” I found the Keen Oswego messenger bag works excellent.
http://www.keenfootwear.com/product/ss10/bags/unisex/lifestyle/oswego/beet%20red%20!%20inca%20gold
I’ve used this bag as a stylish yet discrete way to do urban day trips (Chicago, Minneapolis, London, Paris) and it has held up quite well and is very accommodating. It’s a messenger bag but the main compartment can handle a body with lens attached and an extra lens and flash. It has additional storage compartments to handle accessories such as memory cards, flash diffuser, lens cleaning kit, etc. It’s my favorite light gear bag and ergonomically nothing works better.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:02 am
Lowepro Slingshot 200, love it!
March 5th, 2010 at 4:05 am
Sold my LowePro Sling shot and bought a Tenba Shootout Small. Very well padded and durable. Wrote about it on my blog here http://m2photog.wordpress.com/2009/11/12/bag-review-tenba-shootout-backpack-small/
March 5th, 2010 at 4:05 am
after much searching, my Lowepro 200AW will arrive tomorrow. it’s just the right size or what i need and i like that it slings across my back or it can be swung around to the front. i have a bad back and rather not use a knapsack. i also like the waterproof cover. extra protection for keeping my gear dry.
funny, i just searched this site for bag recommendations this week.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:13 am
i also have this bag for around town stuff. http://www.walmart.com/ip/Vituri-Digital-SLR-Camera-Bag-Brown/5750779
39.99$
the slingback is for full gear travelling i.e. vacation, special trips.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:14 am
Ive been using the Kata PRISM-U backpack. This thing holds up like a CHAMP. I was looking for something that was light, simplistic, and could act as a general backpack as well as a camera bag. It can hold a sizeable body + 2 lenses and the upper compartment can fit everything you need for everyday living. The laptop section in the back can fit a small laptop/netbook, but can also be used for papers, notebooks, etc. If you haven’t looked at Kata Bags before, I strongly suggest that you do.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:28 am
Tenba ProDigital 2.0 Messenger
For those who don’t want to scream “I’M A PHOTOGRAPHER WITH EXPENSIVE EQUIPMENT ON ME!!!”
But still want to look cool.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:30 am
Tenba Shootout in olive green. Great bag, and it doesn’t scream “expensive camera equipment inside!”
March 5th, 2010 at 4:36 am
I use a Domke F-5xc. It holds my XTi, 18-55 IS, 55-250 IS, 50 1.8 and a flash, and I have it set up so that I can have any (or none) of the lenses on the body without rearranging the dividers. I love it!
March 5th, 2010 at 4:45 am
Lowepro Flipside 300. Great bag, access only from ‘inside’ i.e. impossible to open while it’s being worn. Big plus is that it’s easy to strap on a tripod.
My small option is a Medic M3 pack, purchased from army surplus for $15. Perfect for the ‘light’ days and it doesn’t look like a camera bag. I use it extensively when I’m out with my film gear.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:46 am
Mine is Lowepro Flipside 200, took it on a trip to japan last december, quite nice for travelling thx to its slim shape, the downside is it can be troublesome when u had to reach for your camera to take a quick shot of a moment..
March 5th, 2010 at 5:14 am
Kata KT DR-467 …
in the market for something a tad more lens-centric though.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:15 am
I have a Lowepro Slingshot 200 and love it dearly, except I find that it doesn’t distribute the weight on my back all that well, especially when fully loaded. I have back issues, so weight distribution matters on longer outlings. I’m looking into getting a Kata backpack to replace it.
Also drooling over the Lola bag from Ephiphanie as an everday bag. Until I decide to fork over the $164 on it (or until the boyfriend picks up on the hints and gets me one for my birthday?), I’ll keep carrying a big purse and have my camera wrapped in a scarf.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:24 am
I recently got a JoTote, which is a purse and camera bag in one. I wanted to be able to carry my camera with me everywhere, even to business events. It looks nice, has a customizable inside, so I can carry lenses, and has little feet on the bottom to protect the contents of the bag. Nobody ever suspects that there’s a camera inside.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:24 am
I ordered a Lola a few weeks ago – they just came in stock again so I am hoping mine ships out soon (I can’t wait!) – for those of you who haven’t seen them, ladies, god these just look great:
http://www.epiphaniebags.com
I have a 4 Million Dollar that I took with me on my recent trip to Japan – it was fine, but the problem is that I still needed to carry a purse around, and ideally what would be great is a super-cute purse that happens to function as a sturdy camera holder and still holds pursey things like wallets and IDs and bottles of water and whatnot. The Epiphanie bags are pretty much the best-looking camera/purse bags I’ve seen – the Jill-E and Emera bags are cute, but I think the Jill-E is a little too soccer-mommish and the Emera bags look more like knitting bags than they do purses.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:29 am
I have owned several Kata bags, both a ‘fanny pack’ and a ‘back pack’ style and I really like thier features…
March 5th, 2010 at 5:30 am
I’ve been using the Boda Lens Bag (http://goboda.com/main.html) for about a year now. Love the capacity and how it hugs the hip while I move about. It’s quite compact and flexible. Sometimes I carry both a Nikon D300S as well as a Sony HD camcorder side by side in the bag, with room to spare for flashcards, tapes, batteries, my i-Phone, a paper notebook and pencils, a water bottle, etc,
March 5th, 2010 at 5:40 am
I have three that I use for different trips:
Lowepro(used the most)–use for all day trips, holds camera, a couple of lenses, batteries, flash and filters
Tamrac-use for short trips(couple of hours), camera with one lens and flash
Nikon Backpack-great for travel by airplane..holds everything above and a laptop! Great padding in it and it fits under the airplane seat.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:49 am
Very soon my main bag will be a Kata 3N1-20 Sling Backpack for its versatility while on the move. A trolley and a tripod holder are just two add-ons available. I love the features and that is what swung me from my consideration on the LowePro slings.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:51 am
When I first started out I had a lowepro slingshot 100 & 200 and also a crumpler 5 million. I loved the slingshot 200 because of the laptop carrying capability and the fact that it was airplane friendly while carrying all my gear. I quickly learned though that the compartment wasn’t big enough for daypack activities. I’ve finally settled on a Deuter Transalpine 30 AC which has a separate zippable bottom stuff sack component where I put my camera. I’ve used all the inserts from the previous bags and stuffed it into this bottom compartment for protection. At this point I still have about 20 L of space to carry a water sleeve, laptop, clothes for a couple of days and lenses rolled up in various socks. The helmet holder suffices as a tripod carrier and best of all it’s airplane friendly! This really helps for long treks and travelling.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:57 am
For traveling, carrying lots of stuff, my 15-year-old Tamrac Pro 12. On our Alaska tour it served great as an under-seat bag on plane and bus. Only problem, it can store so much that it gets wicked heavy.
For day to day shooting, I have several Think Tank modulars. I put them on a belt that already has a fanny pack on it to hold billfold, Kleenex, notebook, batteries, etc. I just carry what I think I’ll need and keeps my hands free.
Another travel tip: I slip a foam drink “coozie” over a lens before packing it — you know, those things you are supposed to put your beer can in so it doesn’t sweat. For longer lenses, one over each end. It adds protection without weight. Plus if someone offers you a cold one, you’re ready!
March 5th, 2010 at 6:14 am
Most of the time, I’m using the CompuDay backpack from Lowepro which fits my D60 + D90 + Macbook nicely. If I need more lenses, my Lowepro Nova 180AW joins the trip
.
March 5th, 2010 at 6:15 am
Timbuk2 Messenger with Domke Inserts
Works great, plenty or room for everything and doesn’t advertise “Look here for $$$$$$$$$$$$” to thieves.
March 5th, 2010 at 6:18 am
I am just using a basic one at the moment that came with the camera, but I would be interested to hear if anybody can reccomend me something lightweight that can stand up to the weather for long periods as I want to be able to bring my camera with me on a 4 day mountain hike in a couple of months time and not have to stuff it in with all my dirty and damp camping gear.
March 5th, 2010 at 6:19 am
LowePro Slingshot 200AW
March 5th, 2010 at 6:19 am
I am using the lowepro slingshot 200, which Is great for a beginer like me. Holds my Eos40d, speedlight, spare lenses and even camcorder (hf10) with ease, and still has room for filters and notebooks etc. Love the side opening for speedy access to the camera.
March 5th, 2010 at 7:01 am
I mostly do street photography, w/ a Canon 40d & a Tamron 28-300VR, & Canon 10-22 wide angle, so I go as light as possible, most of the time using only a Lowepro fanny pack with one lens or the other & a 430ex in it. If it’s a crappy day, I’ll carry a Lowepro holster to shove the camera in when it turns ugly. If I ‘m doing some other kind of shooting that requires more “stuff”, I use a Crumpler 6 Million Dollar Home, which holds a good amount, is comfortable, & reasonably easy to work out of (no fumbly zippers to fuss with while I’m fumbling with fumbly camera stuff), but still keeps everything safe & protected. For long distance travel, or the “I’m gonna need everything I own” shoot, I have a large Tamrac photo/ computer backpack that’ll haul it all, plus more, BUT, that’s all it’s good for, ’cause it’s hell to work out of.
March 5th, 2010 at 7:04 am
I use a Case Logic backpack. It serves my needs very well. When I step up to a faster zoom, I may need to change. The hammock the lens fits in to is rather tight, even with the small kit lens. Other than that, it is very roomy, and looks like a regular backpack.
Here is the link.
http://www.caselogic.com/slr_camera_backpack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=136691
March 5th, 2010 at 7:33 am
Tamrac 5630, Tamrac 3385, and a Canon Zoompack 1000
March 5th, 2010 at 7:52 am
Crumpler 5 Million Dollar Home
March 5th, 2010 at 8:26 am
I just got a Tamrac 3375 Aero Speed Pack 75 Dual Access Photo Backpack (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001L5U13E/ref=oss_product) for my honeymoon.
Did some walking … site seeing … and hiking …. great buy.
I have a 7D with a 18-135 lens and lens hood. Fits fine ad stores my extra batteries and lenses.
Also stores my snacks and other small items in the top compartment.
Dual access and weatherproof zippers are a big plus for me too.
March 5th, 2010 at 8:27 am
@ Silverzz
Depending on the size of your camera you may find a small bag that attaches to your backpack belt may do the trick.
You do not want your camera in a rucksack as it makes it very difficult to take pics whilst you are walking etc.
If you are doing any canyoning or fording deep streams you may want to take a waterproof plastic container for your valuable, including camera).
I used a small Lowepro AW bag on a 2 day walk with a small DSLR. If it would have been raining heavily I would have then transferred it to my backpack for extra protection under my poncho.
Example – that me on the left -
Full size pic can be seen via here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/34094515@N00/545010069/
March 5th, 2010 at 8:29 am
To transport basic camera gear plus laptop: Lowepro Fastpack 250. Here’s a Review: http://bit.ly/bPLlXo
To work out of: Boda Bag V3. I love this bag! Carries all my lenses, flash and knick-knacks for a shoot comfortably! It’s weather resistant too! Also great for photo-walking as well. Here’s a review: http://bit.ly/8HSha7
To transport all gear including OCF lighting gear, primary and backup bodies, lenses including Boda Bag packed & ready to pull out to shoot: Think Tank Airport line of roller bags are the best. http://bit.ly/XiZqK
My .02 cents
March 5th, 2010 at 8:35 am
Lowepro AW110
March 5th, 2010 at 8:35 am
Crumpler 8 million for travel
- holds a Dell Latitude D630, Canon EOS 40D with Canon 300 mm L IS attached, Canon 70-200 mm L IS, Canon 10-22mm, Canon 28-135mm IS, Canon 1.4x Extender, Canon 580 EX and a few accessories.
Thinktank Photo Belt, Harness, pouches and a Digital Holster 50 for shooting.
Kata Sensitivity 5 and a tamrac messenger which I have outgrown.
March 5th, 2010 at 9:09 am
I did a great deal of research and made a false start, buying an extra heavy duty bag that fell apart within months. I finally decided on a Tamrac Expedition 8X. I am an idiot when it comes to being prepared.
As a nature, macro and landscape photographer, I often carry a field-studio with me. The MAS system
external attachment points allow me to attach lighting tripod stands to the sides that I use as supports
for backdrops or reflectors. The back side has attachement points for holding a tripod or monopod.
I have 40 years backpacking experience. This is the most comfortable pack I have ever worn! It is heavily
padded and weather resistant, including nylon overflaps for the main compartment to keep out the worst
weather. The pack is heavily padded, with a ton of storage space. The pack straps, including the belt,
can be retracted tight against the pack, so that the pack can also be caried as a bag, by its padded carying
handle. My only regret is that I did not buy the 9X instead of the 8X. Oh, by the way, the X indicates that
the model includes an additional full length padded compartment for a full size laptop. I am not quite
that crazy, and instead use that for my reflectors and backdrops.
If you are into photo-treking, consider the Tamrac Expedition Series.
You can see my pack in action (or rather waiting for more action) by exporing the MS-HD-View page at:
You will have to look around to the left to find it.
March 5th, 2010 at 9:13 am
Like many, I started out a small tamrac messenger bag, but soon needed something bigger, so I got a Lowepro Flipside 300. It’s a good, sturdy bag, but I don’t really like having swivel it around the waist belt to get stuff out or put it on the ground. Plus, it’s not weatherproof.
I’m in the market for something new, and I’ll likely follow the advice of those who went with a crumpler or tenba bag that doesn’t look like a camera bag.
March 5th, 2010 at 9:15 am
I use a Gem packpack for my Fujifilm S9500 and Nikon D80 plus assorted lenses,flashes and filters plus other bits and pieces.It’s big,its tough and it was cheap.A great bag.
March 5th, 2010 at 9:22 am
Crumpler 6 Million Dolar Home for commuting and Lowepro Fastpack 350 for traveling with my Macbook. I’m looking for bigger backpack….may be Thinktank Streetwalker Harddrive or Lowepro Vertex 200
March 5th, 2010 at 9:28 am
Crumpler 6 Million Dollar Home, Shoulder bag works well for concert photography and other events where having your arsenal at arms length comes in handy.
March 5th, 2010 at 9:32 am
Crumpler 4 Million Dollar Home. It fits my Oly e510, 2 kit lenses and the pancake 25mm lens, plus cards, cloth, cash, keys. It’s saved my camera twice now. Once I got caught in torrential rain and got soaked to the bone, but the camera was safe and dry. Second time, I left my camera bag (with all the above) in a cafe in NZ and had to get it couriered back to Australia by the cafe owners. They put it straight in a cardboard box with no further padding, and it all came back in a perfect state, much to my relief!
It’s great for gigs because of it’s slim profile.
If I want to just carry minimal kit, I use a Crumpler Bundle (Large) which just fits my Oly e510 with the 25mm pancake lens attached.
March 5th, 2010 at 9:56 am
Canon backpack. It works great, and left some money in my budget to upgrade to an L-series lens.
March 5th, 2010 at 10:08 am
I recently searched a long time for a bag that met my specs. My Slingshot 100 was way too small.
Needed largish backpack for hiking to hold two Sony Bodies 3-4 lenses, a flash,batteries etc, a jacket, food and water
Would not bring my laptop hiking
Wanted to be able to strap my tripod on easily in the middle for balance
Be affordable
I found a new Rover AWII in local classifieds which seems to suit most of my needs.
Drawbacks: Not enough small seperate pockets in the upper compartment. Still slightly small and the upper sternum straps fall down the main straps. And I am not too confident in its weatherablitly. The nice thing is I could take the dividers out of the bottom and put them in the sleeping bag compartment of my larger backpacking pack for extended journeys and still have some camera protection.
March 5th, 2010 at 10:15 am
Tamrac Velocity 9x ….Great size…fits a full SLR with battery grip and extra lenses/attachments, charger cords…etc. Very comfortable, I just wish it had a flat surface so that it could be set down without leaning it on something.
March 5th, 2010 at 11:28 am
Oakley AP Backpack 3.0 retails for $160 at oakley.com. it fits my 5D MK II with 430EX II in their sleeves perfectly in the front pouch, 70-200,17-40, and 50 in their lowepro sleeves in the main- with a change of clothes for 3 days, elinchrom radios in the side pouch, and pretty much whatever else you want to carry. im in the military so i know how to pack and if done right you could live out of this thing. feels great on my back, way better than the assault pack that was issued to me. plus its semi padded to boot for that extra bit of protection.
am i the only one that dare tread in less than purpose built photographic bag territory?
also for those with a hefty load out i recommend the Pelican 1700 series weapons case. it will with an M16A1 no problem ooooor 2 bodies, 6 lenses, a set of radios, external microphone, headphones, a small video camera, and various support equipment.
March 5th, 2010 at 11:40 am
This bag is awesome- I just got it and I love it!
http://www.kata-bags.com/productFRM2HS.asp?p_Id=19771&Version=Photo#p7GPc1_1
March 5th, 2010 at 12:01 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 200
March 5th, 2010 at 12:20 pm
All I want is a bag strong enough to withstand heavey use in the mountains . I would also love to be able to lash a tripod to it . It should be able to carry one body , 2 lenses and mackro gear . Lunch and some clothing would also go into this bag . My biggie is the tripod
March 5th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Sears tool bag, with fabricated seperators. Stronger than any camera bag,metal bottom,tuff zipper some pockets. Makes me look like a construction worker not camera man easier to hide gear & inconspicious 26 bucks a any Sears. I also own a few made for camera bags too………
March 5th, 2010 at 12:56 pm
I use the lowepro FastPack 250. It has a great opening on the side for quick access to camera. Lots of room for lenses and flash. And additional point is that you can carry your laptot on the back.
I also use sometinmes a simple shoulder strap bag for short shootings…
March 5th, 2010 at 1:08 pm
I use the Lowepro Slingshoot 150.It’s heavy when fully loaded with equipment but even though its heavy it’s quite confortable to walk around with.When I see something interesting I just sling the bag to the front open it take my camera and click away . When I don’t need all my equipment I just take my camera with the lens I’am going to be using attached with a small Nikon camera bag .
March 5th, 2010 at 2:26 pm
Vanguard – Pampas 57.
I bought it recently during a trip to Singapore after buying a Tokina 11-16 and not having enough room in my Lowepro Slingshot 100 AW.
Easily fits my D90 with 18-105 attached, the 11-16 Tokina, 50mm 1.8 and SB600 flash with heaps of room to spare for all the odds and sods. It was about $140SP which puts it in the great value for money class.
It is extremely well built with quality materials and easily matches the quality of the Lowepro.
BTW I have no commercial interest in this product I am just very pleased with it.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 300 AW for walkaround and Tamrac Expedition 7 for carrying all my equipment when travelling to Kruger Park etc. Very heavy with everything in but stays in the car.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
lowepro
March 5th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack
March 5th, 2010 at 3:19 pm
I recently got the Tamrac Exposition 6 camera/laptop bag through Amazon.com. I was not sure if I had
made the right decision or not but after configuring it around in a couple of different ways, I have grown to like it more all the time. It is quite pricey but I like that I can carry everything I possibly might need. I like the ease of being able to get to everything rapidly. The drawback is that the more you are able to carry at one time the more weight you have to tote around. I am a photo enthusiast aiming towards a more professional future. I carry my new Nikon D90 with a 70/200mm f2.8 lens,a 17/55mm f2.8 lens,a 50mm F1.4g lens, some cleaning tools and my battery charger. Another thing you have to think about carrying all this stuff around is the value of the contents. I have all my marbles in this one bag. I like having it that way but one could easily have a gold mine in a small package if it got carted off.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:59 pm
I have a Tamrac Adventure 9 for travel and longer hikes. I chose it because it has enough storage space for camera and lenses plus enough space for other stuff needed on a hike plus good shoulder straps and a hip belt.
But most of the time I use a black $15 Wittenberg large shoulder bag that has a main compartment for the camera with any kind of lens and other compartments for things like cell phone and wallet, dog leash and treats, squeaker toy, and extra batteries and such. This bag has a broad strap and really sturdy zippers. It is designed to be worn across the upper body – very comfortable. I have even put dividers from an old camera bag in it.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:24 pm
Think tank Urban disguise 40 built better than anything else on the market and holds twice what a bag this size should. getting the shoulder harness for long trecks, its brilliant as are the guys at Think Tank wonderful servise and advise
March 5th, 2010 at 5:29 pm
I looked long and hard for the perfect backpack that I could take with me abroad. Some things I was looking for in a pack was something water resistant, easy access to the camera without taking the pack off, and a back pack that had high security (more on that later). I ended up getting a Lowepro Primus AW. It is the prfect pack for me. It has a side access zipper so you can remove the camera with a 70-200 lens on it without taking the pack off. AW is for all weather meaning that the pack is made of water resistant materials and also has a integrated cover that goes over the whole pack. As for security, I spent a lot of time in crammed buses or subways and always felt uncomfortable when someone was pressing against my pack. With this pack, you are not able to access the main compartments unless the pack is off your back. That might be a negative for some but I find it to be peace of mind knowing that my equipment is safe and sound. A couple of added benefits are that It is made of recycled materials (appx. 22 soda bottles) and a portion of the funds will support Polar Bears International PBI, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the worldwide conservation of the polar bear.
March 5th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
A lot of people here suggest the brands and the models. I will suggest certain bags on usage. Having owned backpacks, should bags and waist pouches, I guess I will categorise these bags as such.
Backpacks
- Use as general transport of camera equipment from one location to another
- Expect not to use the camera enroute from one point to another
- Some bags like crumpler, has back access to the camera. Great for security, bad for camera access when that wonderful photo op pops up
Hard Case
- As per backpack
- Made worse by the fact it will be heavy
- Generally use by professionals for on scene photo shoot
Should/Messenger Bag
- 2 Types, those oblong types that has lots of compartments OR elongated types that is able to house long lens (70-200mm) with the camera body on.
- Great access to photo equipment
- Great strain on one side of the shoulder over long period of time. Good for short 1-2 hour street photography…any longer not good for the body
Waist Pouch
- the lightest of the lot
- not a lot of space so great for prosumer/compact cams with some accessories
- hangs by the waist and if there’s no support straps it will sag thus make walking comfortably virtually impossible
March 5th, 2010 at 6:08 pm
Lowepro Inverse 100 AW perfect for nature! Easy to carry and wih raincower its so usefull. Recommending for nature addicts
March 5th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Use the Think Tank urban disguise with a shoulder harness for long treks/getting there, and as a shoulder bag with quick access once you start to take photo’s The perfect bag! Small doesnt shout camera steal me , and takes a 70-200 F2.8 lens.Plus its easy to get through crowds without hitting passer byes unlike most back packs
March 5th, 2010 at 6:25 pm
Lowero slingshot 200 AW. Had it for a year now and love it.
March 5th, 2010 at 8:37 pm
I have a Crumpler 7 million Dollar, carries all I need, body with mounted lens and spare, cards, battery, cloths etc, purse, phone, easy to work out of, well padded.
Ocassionally I use the side loops to carry a tripod.
Love this bag, + doesn’t scream Camera Bag.
March 5th, 2010 at 10:24 pm
A DIY converted no-name laptop backpack. it’s cheap, fun to adapt (and readapt) and big enough for all my gear.
March 6th, 2010 at 1:53 am
Incase Sling Bag for me
March 6th, 2010 at 2:03 am
Switched to a Flipside 400 (originally tried the 200). I sold my slingshot because the single strap was too heavy.
For work when I need a laptop, I’ve been using the Think Tank Urban Disguise 50
And for light travel, I’ve been happy with the Crumpler 6 Million Dollar bag.
March 6th, 2010 at 2:40 am
I posted earlier that I ordered the Caselogic TBC-307 SLR Camera Backpack from Amazon. It just arrived, today. With shipping, the grand total was $42. I have a D40 and one additional 70-200mm lens & with those in the bag, I have room for at least two more lenses. The camera fits on the very top of the bag for easy access. There is a hammoc that holds my D-40 with the 50-200mm lens attatched & still has some room. I saw some reviews stating this compartment was a snug fit with their camera, but there is ample room for my D-40. There is also a mesh pocket on the outside that will be perfect for a water bottle & other pockets that have more than enough room to store an extra battery, lens caps, cleaning kit, and filters. The straps adjust quite a bit and there is a chest strap for added security. There are outer straps to hold a tri-pod. I found a tri-pod that folds down to about a foot and does not stick off this bag at all. I was worried about taking my larger tripod on hiking trips and bought the smaller one for this reason. From now on, this will be the bag I carry for hiking trips, day trips, zoo trips, etc. However, I think I will still like to get a purse style bag for social gatherings. I never carry my laptop with me, so I wasn’t looking for a back to hold that as well. I only wanted room for my camera, two additional lenses & room for personal items and this bag definitely fits the bill. I’ll really put it to the test this summer, but I think it will suffice just fine.
March 6th, 2010 at 2:55 am
Lowepro Slingshot 200 All Weather Backpack is my #1 choice, very convenient and versatile bag. I am using Lowepro Slingshot 300 AW (choice #2) when I need to carry 70-200 or larger lens, it just doesn’t fit into 200AW attached to the camera body.
March 6th, 2010 at 3:33 am
Domke F2. Great all-around bag. Has enough space for most of my gear, and doesn’t scream “camera bag”.
March 6th, 2010 at 4:27 am
I have a CaseLogic Medium back pack and I really like it for when Im spending a hole day taking pictures because It’s not hard to carry around and fits a good amount of equipment including my monopod.
But i recently got the Medium Jill-E bag and LOVE IT, it does not look like a camera bag rather than a really
nice purse and fit my gear as well as wallet and other things! It’s not a bag for hard photoday and to face weather but for everyday it’s great.
March 6th, 2010 at 5:18 am
Lowepro Slingshot 200
March 6th, 2010 at 5:20 am
I found that the best camera I have ever used is not even a camera bag!
I own a Lowpro Slingshot 100AW, a bag that I use to regularly use for carrying my Canon EOS 450D and a couple of lenses. The one thing that use to annoy the hell out of me was if I wanted to change a lens or filters etc I had to take it off completely in order to rumage around in the bag. As a landscape photographer, I also wanted a bag that was weather proof, and although the Slingshot 100AW has a waterproof cover, I once again had to take it off in order to put it on. I paid around £60 for it at the time of purchase.
The bag I am using at the moment is a standard fishing bag that I bought at an Audi store in Essex (United Kingdom). It cost me £10, it is completely waterproof, has much more storage space, just as much padding to protect the camera and to top it all, it is a shoulder bag therefore no more taking it off to access the equipment inside.
Okay it might not look the part, and I am planning on buying a metal carry case for professional work, but it is simple, effective and cheap. Keep your eyes peeled for a bargin!
March 6th, 2010 at 5:28 am
I have a Lowpro CompuDayPack, which I love. I’m always on the go between jobs, and I use my laptop for everything. It has just enough room for all my equipment (camera body, laptop cord, and three lenses in the bottom half, and my telephoto lens, cords, cards, batteries, etc. in the top-front section, and laptop in the back), which keeps the temptation to carry things “just in case” to a minimum – which I love. I’m insanely tough on bags, so it’s important to have one that will keep my equipment safe and secure while I’m running for the bus, getting jostled on the subway, racing from one job to the next, and this one does just fine. It’s kept me going for about two years with only a broken strap piece slowing me down – but just momentarily.
I also have a regular shoulder camera bag (Targus, I believe? I got it super cheap when Circuit City was liquidating last year.) for when I’m just going out to shoot, but as that happens so, so rarely (I’m usually on the job in some other capacity that requires full access to my computer), I don’t use it much.
March 6th, 2010 at 7:25 am
Crumpler 8 Million Dollar Home. Accomodates D90 w/18-200 lens, SB900 flash, filters, batteries, occasionally a laptop, and room for much, much more.
March 6th, 2010 at 12:14 pm
I just got my Slingshot 200. I used a friend’s 100 and found it wouldn’t hold everything I wanted it to, but was otherwise pretty awesome. Since I just got it, I haven’t gone out with it, so I can’t say how I feel exactly about it, but it sure beats using a backpack-type bag. I have a Lowepro one that I’ve used for almost a year and that drove me nuts. I use to use a shoulder bag and it was pretty handy, but wasn’t always the easiest thing to lug around.
March 6th, 2010 at 5:05 pm
kata dr-466i
also 2 cheap smaller camera bag (1 body, 1/2 extra lens or flash), pair with a non-camera backpack.
March 6th, 2010 at 8:11 pm
Kata 3n1 20 is
March 6th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
Kata 3n1 20 is a godsend for someone with back trouble like myself. I love how I can hike with it easily, then convert it from a well supported – hip belt included backpack to a slingshot style quick access pack when you want it. Next time I might opt for the bigger model though as it’s tricky adding enough waterpacks. I still need to try out the tripod attachment – once I’ve found my bargain priced low weight sturdy no creep dream model… .
For citytrips I prefer something a bit less attractive, so I end up with a cheap student backpack with a well padded camera holster inside.
March 6th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
Whatever bag you use, once you take your camera out your cover is blown. You have to be street wise when you work in public or your one grand plus pride and joy will end up being sold for a few quid to feed some junkies habit.
I keep my gear in a hard case in the boot of the car and only take what is needed in the pockets of my jacket and the camera is carried round my neck in front of me not on my shoulder, it seems that the best street shots are always in the shadier part of town. So be street wise be aware of who is around you.
As professional photographer it amuses me to see people looking like Jessop’s window laden down with equipment, I have three lenses and two cameras and they pay the food and rent for me and the wife. Take Care And Keep Safe
March 7th, 2010 at 1:12 am
LowPro 250. Rugged, lightweight, room for DLSR + 2 lens + strobe +etc.
March 7th, 2010 at 1:58 am
When I travel in the developing world, I don’t like my camera to be obvious, so I use a regular backpack and keep it in there. However, wanting to keep it safe as well, I use the foam inserts from a small Lowepro bag I have had since the nineties. they can be combined into a little box to protect the lens and body, though you still have to be a bit careful with it (so I use a towel or something to pad the bottom, especially.
The down side of this is it allows for just one lens, as I don’t have travel cases for the others. I take my 17-85 if from Canon and just leave it on.
Eventually, I’ll buy a better bag for travel (and more lenses!) but for now this seems to work fine.
March 7th, 2010 at 3:05 am
I have had a LowePro Stealth Reporter AW 650 for almost 6 years and it has done sterling service.
I also have a small Hama backpack which cost me £20 (30 US$) and has been fantastic.
March 7th, 2010 at 10:07 am
I use a Maxpedition Colossus pack for my Nikon D5000 with extra lenses and a ton of other accessories. This bag is a sling style pack and made more for tactical purposes. The main compartment is well padded, and there are TONS of pockets for miscellaneous equipment.
March 7th, 2010 at 10:11 am
I use the Kata sensitivity V and I absolutely love it!! It’s a bit pricey, but it is well worth it! It is not a bag for people who want to put every single thing into their bags. But if you want a nice , sleek , comfortable day pack and to go hiking with , this is the perfect bag! I would recommend it to anyone.
March 7th, 2010 at 11:11 am
I use a Kata DPS 467 and it works great for my Sony A700, Tamron 17-50 f2.8, Tamron 70-200 f2.8, Sony 50mm 1.4, and Tamron 200-500 (has to flip out with my 70-200 to fit them, depending on what I’m shooting needs). It fits accessories, filters, flash and I have my monopod strapped to it. Plus it fits my 15″ and my 10.5″ laptops just fine.
The bag is built so well! Top craftsmanship is evident. I highly recommend this bag to everyone if it fits your need. It’s the best fitting backpack I’ve ever worn, it fits like a glove. Highly recommend it!
March 7th, 2010 at 4:02 pm
I use a Kata 3-1 but not really happy with it. Its really to small. I also really don’t find it functional although maybe I have never spent enough time figuring out how to configure it properly. It seems well built as far as protecting the gear though.
March 8th, 2010 at 1:41 pm
I have a Lowepro SLingshot 200 AW. In it I place a Nikon D90. FujiFilm s5100. And all accessories I own. I don’t have alot of lenses. But as I collect more glass I will be able to drop the fuji and have enough room for other items. I like the bag alot, throw it over my shoulder and, I can spin it to remove my D90 and shoot. Plus have the ability to place the camera back in the bag and spin it to my back again.
March 8th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
i use a national geographic midi satchel! it comes with a waterproof cover and i like its rugged look!:D
March 8th, 2010 at 4:09 pm
When I just need my camera and a couple of lenses, I love the Lowepro Sling 100.
Otherwise, I carry a generic brand (Antler) which is not for photography, really. I like it since it fits 2 nano lightstands, 2 umbrellas, 2 flashes, my camera, lenses and still space for misc stuff such as the wireless triggers, etc. Has wheels plus carries as a backpack.
Paid just $100 for it.
A picture and even a lighting setup here: http://blog.tremblestudio.com/china
March 8th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
I had been using Lowepro fastpack 350. It holds a canon 40D+ BG-E2 grip and an EOS 1N with PBE1 grip. Plus 70-200 2.8 L / Sigma 50-500 EX DG HSM/Sigma 24-70 2.8 EX DG. And speedlites 580 exII and 430 ex. and eneloop batteries, CFs, chargers, timer remote control. The list is endless . LOL
March 8th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
I use a LowePro Nova 5 which I bought about 16 or 17 years ago (I think) It carries all my gear although it is too heavy to carry far. So I also have a Nova 2 which is a similar style and carries an SLR and a couple of lenses and has a big front pocket for any extras such as memory cards (used to be film) batteries, microfibre cloth etc while i leave my big bag in the car boot.
March 9th, 2010 at 11:39 am
I use the National Geographic Earth Explorer backpack, (medium).
I like the extra room on top, the ability to carry my 14 inch laptop, one camera body and 4 lenses. Not to mention all of the pockets for memory cards, cleaning supplies, etc. There are side pockets for water bottles and straps for my monopod and tripod. It also has a cover for wet weather. Best of all it doesn’t look like a camera bag, (if you don’t have a monopod or tripod strapped to it). It can be heavy fully loaded but it is excellent for travel.
March 9th, 2010 at 5:00 pm
Tamrac Velocity 7x is great for 450D/Kit Lens/70-300/50mm and accessories.
March 11th, 2010 at 4:46 am
My first pack was a Lowepro Flipside 300 which worked OK initially with my first SLR but quickly outgrew it once I got beyond two or three small lenses. Now my primary pack is a Vertex 200 AW and fits everything great (XSi, 5d2, 70-200 F4L IS, 24-105 F4L IS), but it’s BIG and heavy to lug around – especially hiking. I’ve been looking into something smaller with room to fit other non-photography items while hiking and evaluating the Lowepro Primus AW at the moment.
March 13th, 2010 at 7:25 pm
using a case Logic XLNR
wouldn’t recommend it to any one
aesthetically good, but senseless design and very bad stitching.
March 17th, 2010 at 2:10 am
Anything from Think Tank. Everything is made with durability, security and function in mind. No plastic fasteners or d-rings for me. Metal to metal. Own the Urban Disguise 30, Pixel Pocket Rocket and taking a good look at back packs to handle my laptop.
March 18th, 2010 at 7:24 am
as pictured! actually, i have 2 bags: the lowe pro slingshot 200 (starting to wish i’d gotten the 300 instead) and a domke f-2. the slingshot is great for when i’m out on the go, but i can’t fit my 70-200 lens in it. the domke carries one camera body plus all of my lenses and accessories, but i can’t actually have a lens attached to the body in that bag. at least not in its current configuration…
March 25th, 2010 at 1:29 pm
Current using a Kata 3N1-22, sufficient protection for my camera but i’ve added a few more paddings, just in case. It does seems too bulky for a casual day out (since i do not have any extra lens right now and only using a 18-200mm lens).
Just to check, anyone bought Lowepro Passport Sling?
I’m thinking of getting it for casual day shoots.
March 27th, 2010 at 7:04 pm
I have Lowepro flipside 300 . its really good and it has nice design.
April 1st, 2010 at 12:23 pm
When I go on vacation(usually several days), I need everything. My Lowepro Fastpack 250 (though heavy when loaded) carries all: Nikon D80, five lenses, Contax G1 (with several rolls of film), Fuji f1000, batteries, filters, two flashes,two tripods (one small), and a botle of water. In the Florida Everglades last month, it fit the bill. For day trips with photo friends, a small backpack does it.
April 2nd, 2010 at 12:17 am
I use a Jill-E medium bag to hold my gear, a Shootsac for my lenses while I’m shooting and I recently bought an Acme Lunch Box to hold my camera when I am using the Shootsac on location without my Jill-E bag.
June 21st, 2010 at 7:03 am
Tamrac Expedition 5× FTW!! It has such good build quality and space
June 22nd, 2010 at 3:01 pm
Lowepro SlingShot 300 AW , Tamrac Expedition 7x
July 28th, 2010 at 3:58 am
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In any event, I found your article very helpful and informative.
December 23rd, 2010 at 5:31 am
I’ve tried many different bags, but I can’t get all my stuff in a purse like that. So after researching a lot, I have found an awesome camera backpack that is not a guy bag. It is perfect for women and comes in two different colors including a beautiful blue and gray which is the one I got. Best of all: I only paid $100,00 and it fits my laptop, my camera gear, diapers and wipes (for moms), wallet, keys and more into it. It’s great! . Check the website out: http://www.portarebags.com
April 1st, 2011 at 5:01 am
I have a Lowepro Passport Sling and I love it. It’s a tight fit when I have the 7D with my 24-70mm attached and it can’t accommodate the battery grip but I love how I can walk around looking like a normal person, even in the evening. I can put in : camera with attached lens and Black Rapid strap, extra batteries, extra cards, wallet, small makeup bag and with a tight squeeze and unzipping the back, my iPad. I can also find room for my flash if I don’t need other stuff like my bounce. Plus stuff in the outside pockets, including a water bottle. At the PDN show I went over to the Lowepro booth and spoke to the reps there about what else I might want in that bag, including a slightly larger insert and another bag one size up.
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