zeitgeist on camera bags � - DPChallenge Forums

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

05/05/2010 01:47:24 PM · #1

I realize there are plenty of threads about photo bags � so I'm kind of a self centered to start a new one.

But it seems like there are so many (and so many opinions) that I need help from my DPC family in choosing.
I currently have the Kata 467 � I chose it in large part due to the 15in lap-top section - which comes in handy when flying, but that's about it. The bag is great but I need a size upgrade � not too much bigger, but enough to safely hold the d300 w/ lens + tri-pod mount and other 4 lenses + speedlight (probably 2 for when i get another), and all the various things we all need.

I'm looking to stay around the 100-150$ range if possible.

Anyone have any news on what the young hipsters are using nowadays ;) ?
OK - maybe the 37 year-olds with sketchy backs as well.

thanks !

Message edited by author 2010-05-05 13:47:59.

Yo_Spiff

Olympus 12-100mm f/4.0 M.Zuiko ED IS PRO

05/05/2010 02:00:27 PM · #2

Originally posted by tate:

what the young hipsters are using nowadays ;) ?

Well, that leaves me out.

pamelasue

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di for Canon

05/05/2010 02:14:53 PM · #3

I use this when traveling for work, and I love it! It is a bit higher than your target price, but worth considering ...

Lowepro CompuRover AW

sellers

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX100

05/05/2010 02:32:26 PM · #4

WOw - actually looks alarmingly similar to the Kata � and frightenly more pricey ;)
I think when all the equipment is in that bottom part like that, it's a bit more annoying for me to access. I think that's part of my problem with the Kata bag anyway.

Originally posted by pamelasue:

I use this when traveling for work, and I love it! It is a bit higher than your target price, but worth considering ...

Lowepro CompuRover AW

sellers

spiritualspatula

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

05/05/2010 10:37:02 PM · #5

I've looked through probably every single bag that is the sort of thing you're looking for. You won't beat the price of that Kata. Just isn't going to happen- they're priced lower than everybody else. If you don't like the idea of everything being in the bottom, your other options are a large slingpack (which aren't very comfortable with that much gear) or one that mounts the camera with lens facing down from the top like the Nature Trekker. One new thing that I'm considering that has the ease of use of a slingbag but carries like a backpack is the new Tamrac Aero series. The Speedpack 75 might be right down your alley and meets price requirement. I have not seen these in person yet, though. Speedpack 75 on Amazon You can view the other Aero options at Tamrac's site. Sorry for the indirect link.
ETA: If the 75 is a bit small, there is also the Tamrac 85 on Amazon which also has that dual access.

Message edited by author 2010-05-05 22:41:59.

millsa

Nikon D7100

Nikon AF-S DX 18-105 f/3.5-5.6 ED VR

05/05/2010 11:41:52 PM · #6

I have the predecessor to this, one without the laptop slot :( Anyway it holds camera with lens, 4 lenses, and enough room in the top to fit a couple of speed-lights, triggers and gumph. What I like is it will go as a sing so you can access your camera quickly without taking the bag off, or as a backpack for a little more comfort over long distances. And by the way I'm an old 39yo not so hipster but my back is hold up :)

Kata 3-in-1

Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM

05/06/2010 11:22:50 AM · #7

Thank you

millsa

spiritualspatula and

pamelasue �
some great options there.

I actually really like my Kata bag - it is just a bit too small to hold the D300 with tri-pod mount or battery pack � or any long lens (that I might afford some day ;). I really like the light weight and yellow interior so I certainly want to look at more of the Kata bags �

There is a boat load at B+H.

I dread choosing a bag - I suppose it's partly because I want one that supports my assortment of lenses now - but leaves room for dream lenses as well =)

Magnumphotography

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

05/06/2010 11:40:48 AM · #8

I have really loved my Lowepro photo trekker AW. It's a backpack type, that has served me well, for over 10 years. I like it for the great space and ability to fit 24 cans of Blue while keeping them cold!

Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM for Nikon

05/06/2010 11:42:58 AM · #9

OK - so this is embarrassing but I suppose a lesson �

Looking at all those images of bags and how they were configured got me thinking. I really don't want a huge camera bag until I absolutely need to have one. Since I don't have my dream-lens yet, I decided to try reconfiguring my bag.

I removed a horizontal divider - I rotated the camera 90degrees and attached my largest lens (10-20mm). I know � I have no telephoto =) After removing non-lens items I have from the main compartment - the area became surprisingly roomy.

I feel like a heel. But not really, because I can use that 100$ toward acquiring a dream lens � which will then require a bigger bag once again ;) HA!

EDIT to ADD: OK I just tried stacking my 50mm and 35mm on top of eachother and they safely fit in there - now I have too much space ;)

Message edited by author 2010-05-06 12:00:57.

jdannels

Nikon D300s

05/06/2010 07:48:08 PM · #10

Originally posted by tate:

what's the dream about?

ErikV

Nikon D7000

Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VR DG IF-ED

05/06/2010 09:33:50 PM · #11

Originally posted by jdannels:

Originally posted by tate:
Since I don't have my dream-lens yet, I decided to try reconfiguring my bag.

what's the dream about?

How about the Nikon 200-400 VRII that was just announced? That monster certainly will not fit in your bag!

Edited to correct spelling

Message edited by author 2010-05-06 21:34:21.

snaffles

Nikon D7100

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II

05/07/2010 02:10:44 PM · #12

Ooh, did someone say Nikon VRII 200-400mm?! *drooling*

I have an assortment of camera bags, from an old Black's lunchbucket to a small softsided Lowepro and a beige/blue Nikon bag.

However, I also have a small girl's knapsack. In the main body I have a couple of Twiglet canisters lined with old socks. They make pretty decent lens cases for the 18-200 and 50mm. Siggy has her own lens case. The outer pockets are good for filters, spare batteries, food, keys etc.

And best of all as the name on the knapsack is NOT a brand name affiliated with cameras, I have no trouble leaving it in the car (locked, of course) when I go anywhere. So that to me is a bonus.