Choosing the Right Camera Bag
Choosing the right camera bag can be a difficult decision. There are so many sizes and styles to pick from. Small bags to carry just a camera, waist packs, shoulder bags, backpacks, rolling bags, hard cases and more. Some choices offer all weather protection or are totally waterproof. And then you have lots of color choices too. What's a poor camera user to do?
One camera bag or more
You'll need to make some decisions before you buy a bag or case. Size, style, color, expandability etc. Realize that there is not one bag that will fit all your needs. You very well may wind up with two or more bags to suit your shooting needs I have 5 bags currently, from a smallish waist pack to a large backpack. Which one I use will depend on where I'm going and what I expect to be shooting.
Before you buy a camera bag...
Here are your primary considerations for choosing the right camera bag:
- How big is the camera? You want a bag that's slightly larger than the camera so that it's easy to get it in and out of the bag. If it's too snug and difficult to get the camera out you'll soon become frustrated and stop using the camera.
- What else do you need to carry? Notice I said need. You may not want to carry extra batteries, film or a memory card, but you need to.
- Are you taking extra lenses or a flash with your DSLR? Make sure you can comfortably carry any extra equipment you need for what you are shooting. Allow for adequate room for what you now have and some extra space for when you add to your lens arsenal.
- Do you need to carry a tripod? Many medium and large size bags have loops on the bottom for a tripod. For larger (and heavier) tripods I'd encourage you to get a separate tripod bag. They can be had for about $20.
- Will you be out in foul weather? Most camera bags are made from materials that are treated to be water resistant (not waterproof). Some bags, like LowePro's line of All Weather bags have a "raincoat" like cover that protects the bag and it's contents. They also have their Dry Zone bag that is waterproof.
- Soft case or hard case? Most people opt for a soft case. If you travel a lot with your equipment a hard case may be a better choice. Check out Zero Halliburton or Pelikan for hard case options.
- How do you want to carry your stuff? Shoulder bags are convenient, but can swing back and forth as you move or turn. (Be careful when in china and glassware shops) Backpacks leave both your hands free, but you have to take them off your back to get at your equipment. Waist packs are smaller, but convenient to carry a lens or two and accessories.
- Wanna feel like Batman? Scrap the bag idea and go for a Utility Belt! Both Tamrac and LowePro offer belt systems that you attach lens and accessory pouches to. The pouches are available in sizes to fit anything from a cell phone to a large telephoto lens. If you shoot a lot of sports this type of system keeps everything readily accessible.
Point & Shoot camera users will have an easier time selecting a camera case. Just a few decisions as to size and color. SLR users have more things to consider, and many more choices in bag styles. Find what works best for your needs using the guidelines above. Buy a good quality bag to protect your investment. Then load it up and go out and shoot some pictures.
SLR users may want to take their camera, lenses and flash with them when shopping for a camera bag. It may help prevent you from buying the wrong size bag and having to return it.
