Work-out-of-it camera bag

[jeremy_craig]

Looking for advice for a non backpack, top loading bag that can be

worked out of (when on the shoulder), but that isn't too big. I have a

Lowepro mini-trekker which I use on more involved outings and to

basically hold my entire system at home, so want something smaller than

this.

 

Basically, would want to be able to hold the following:

Canon 1V body, 70-200 f/4, 24-70 f2.8L, Flash, few rolls of film and

misc accessories (batteries,etc); perhaps one additional smaller prime

(ie. 85mm).

 

I mention the actual lenses partly so folks can consider the width of

these lenses, with the hood inverted but attached. Perfect world I

would also like bag to hold the camera with any of the lenses attached,

and any/all of the remaining lenses still able to fit.

 

Have looked at (only thru postings/internet -- not in person): Lowepro

Specialist 80 (too small?) Specialist 85, Pro Mag 2 (on this one, specs

say it weighs 4 lbs!!??, but my mini-trekker is only about 2.5lbs?).

Any thoughts and/or real-world experience much appreciated!

[daryl]

Picking a camera bag is a pretty personal thing. The best thing to do is to take your gear with you down to one of the stores and try different bags. If you are unable to do this (poor local selection, distance to a decent shop) you can always try ordering a couple different bags to see what works best and then return the ones that don't make the cut.

[maury_cohen]

Dear Jeremy,

You're on the right track. I'd have steered you towards the Specialist 85AW myself (the S&F Deluxe Belt makes a great addition). I'd also look at our Reporter Series; probably the 300AW. They're quick to access and feel very comfortable on the hip. The new Stealth Reporter 300AW version (due by early summer) will have the addition of a zippered and padded lid. I use the current version and like it as it exists, but the changes will add to its overall value.

 

Maury Cohen, Product Specialist- Lowepro USA

[jeremy_craig]

Thanks Maury, great to have your insider knowledge.

Any comments though on the ProMag 2? The W/D/H dimensions are about the same as the Specialist 85 (its actually 2" shorter)? I guess I like the fact that it appears to have feet for sitting on the ground.

[yuriy_tsibizov]

Another vote to Stealth Reporter series. 300 AW can hold my Minolta 600si+vertical grip with 24-85 lens (with hood) attached, 70-200/2.8+2xTC, 50/1.7 (but have enought space to fit larger lens), flash, tabletop tripod and battery charger (or small body like Minolta 505si). It has limited space for film, but I use side pockets from my Professional AW for it (you can attach them to the side of Reporter bag).

[keith_merrill]

I use a Domke F2 bag and love it. I know it is old and out of style but it works great. I use it with two pentax 645 bodies and 4 lenses. I can keep a 645 body with a zoom lens attached and pull it out when I want it. It doesn't screem camera bag either, its olive drab so it looks like an army surplus bag. Its easy on the shoulder too. I know there are more technical bags out there but when I use something else flaps and padding seem to get in the way. just my 2cents.

[jeremy_craig]

Yuriy / Maury:

I'll take a look at the 300AW, however, specs on lowepro (doesn't say if interior or exterior dimension), say that the bag is only 7.75" height -- doesn't seem likely that I'd be able to have 1V with a 70-200 mounted inside it -- this would likely be about 9" vertical dimension I think).

 

Yuriy, can you fit your Body with 70-200 attached inside bag?

Maybe the 400AW would fit the bill.

 

An aside question for Maury... why are Interior and Exterior dimensions listed for some bags (eg. 400AW) and for other bags (eg. 300AW) there is just one set of dimensions that are unclear as to being interior or exterior?.... you might want to talk to your web folks.

[al_kaplan1]

That's why some of us have so dang many bags! I usually pick the smallest one I have for the assignment at hand, and use a seperate belt pouch for a flash or extra film.

[greg bates]

My favorite way to carry my equipment is the M-Rock belt system. It is very modular and puts the weight on your hips, leaving your shoulders fatigue free. I find over-the-shoulder bags a little cumbersome as they swing and tip when you don't want them to. The M-rock belt system is very accessable. Just slide the whole belt around on your hip until the lens pouch or bag that you need is in front of you. I carry a Bronica RF, three lenses, eight rolls of film, filters and accessories without any effort. M-Rock site: http://www.m-rock.com/