At one time camera bags weren't anything special, but as cameras themselves have grown technologically, they now require something much more heavy-duty than a book bag. There are so many choices today, the task of finding the right bag for your camera equipment may actually be a little overwhelming. If you're not sure where to start, think about the size of your camera, how many lenses and flashes you normally carry with you, the level of comfort you need as well as whether or not you need quick access to change a lens during your general photo session. Also think about the environment in which you normally take pictures. Inside or outside? Covering long distances or only a short distance? For instance, those who take part in wildlife photography need a bag that is particularly comfy and resilient.
For those who travel extremely light when on a photo shoot, a bag that fastens around the waist is ideal. Even though this type of bag is small, there is still enough room for your SLR camera, batteries, straps and a zoom lens. The only downside to this type of bag is it will easily give you a backache if you don't keep it centered. Another type that works well if you don't carry too much with you is a simple shoulder bag which is especially convenient to change between lenses while you're on the go. For example, if you're after photographs of animals in the wild, you won't have time to stop to change lenses when tracking an animal on the move. An additional bonus to shoulder bags is that they don't particularly look like camera bags - making it much less likely for your bag to be stolen.
If, on the other hand, you need to carry quite a lot of photography gear with you, a backpack is your best option. Your back is the strongest part of your body to carry a lot of gear, but it's still necessary for you to choose a bag that has generous padding on the part that rests on your back as well as the shoulder straps. If you have a habit of getting off the beaten path, you would do well with a waterproof bag such as the LowePro Computrekker AW. You may want to consider a backpack that has wheels which can be used on and off at your convenience to give your back a break. Keep in mind that backpacks are usually more expensive than other types of camera bags, but you're paying for space and comfort which is definitely an investment for your career.
If you find that a waist pack is too small and a backpack is too large, a sling pack may be the medium you're looking for. Once again, padding is a vital part of what makes up a professional camera bag, so don't compromise on this just to get something smaller. The beauty of a sling bag is that you can carry it like a backpack as you travel but have your equipment ready to use in a matter of seconds by sliding it to your front. If this sounds like your kind of camera bag, check out the SlingShot 200AW which is ideal for the photojournalist side of photography. This bag is equipped with not only enough space and protections for an SLR camera and four extra lenses, but it also provides mesh covered straps and a back pad to keep your trek as easy as possible. However, women photographers should make sure a sling camera bag really feels comfortable before purchasing one because the style of strap has been known to cut into the middle of the chest.
Whatever you do, don't just order your camera bag online because such and such magazine says it's currently the top bag preferred by professional photographers. A camera bag is something you need to examine closely and try on before committing financially. While money does have to play a part for most people, don't let it be the deciding factor. The saying "you get what you pay for" is all too often a truth that is learned the hard way. Like any big purchase, weigh up the decision carefully. Make sure there is a guarantee that will last you long enough to change your mind if it ultimately doesn't work for you. If you take your time and do your research, you won't go wrong.
For those who travel extremely light when on a photo shoot, a bag that fastens around the waist is ideal. Even though this type of bag is small, there is still enough room for your SLR camera, batteries, straps and a zoom lens. The only downside to this type of bag is it will easily give you a backache if you don't keep it centered. Another type that works well if you don't carry too much with you is a simple shoulder bag which is especially convenient to change between lenses while you're on the go. For example, if you're after photographs of animals in the wild, you won't have time to stop to change lenses when tracking an animal on the move. An additional bonus to shoulder bags is that they don't particularly look like camera bags - making it much less likely for your bag to be stolen.
If, on the other hand, you need to carry quite a lot of photography gear with you, a backpack is your best option. Your back is the strongest part of your body to carry a lot of gear, but it's still necessary for you to choose a bag that has generous padding on the part that rests on your back as well as the shoulder straps. If you have a habit of getting off the beaten path, you would do well with a waterproof bag such as the LowePro Computrekker AW. You may want to consider a backpack that has wheels which can be used on and off at your convenience to give your back a break. Keep in mind that backpacks are usually more expensive than other types of camera bags, but you're paying for space and comfort which is definitely an investment for your career.
If you find that a waist pack is too small and a backpack is too large, a sling pack may be the medium you're looking for. Once again, padding is a vital part of what makes up a professional camera bag, so don't compromise on this just to get something smaller. The beauty of a sling bag is that you can carry it like a backpack as you travel but have your equipment ready to use in a matter of seconds by sliding it to your front. If this sounds like your kind of camera bag, check out the SlingShot 200AW which is ideal for the photojournalist side of photography. This bag is equipped with not only enough space and protections for an SLR camera and four extra lenses, but it also provides mesh covered straps and a back pad to keep your trek as easy as possible. However, women photographers should make sure a sling camera bag really feels comfortable before purchasing one because the style of strap has been known to cut into the middle of the chest.
Whatever you do, don't just order your camera bag online because such and such magazine says it's currently the top bag preferred by professional photographers. A camera bag is something you need to examine closely and try on before committing financially. While money does have to play a part for most people, don't let it be the deciding factor. The saying "you get what you pay for" is all too often a truth that is learned the hard way. Like any big purchase, weigh up the decision carefully. Make sure there is a guarantee that will last you long enough to change your mind if it ultimately doesn't work for you. If you take your time and do your research, you won't go wrong.
About the Author:
Looking to find the best deal on equipment for off-road adventures, then visit www.echo4x4.co.za to find the best advice on camera bags for your off-road adventures.
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