Thursday, August 30, 2012

How To Choose The Right Bag For Your Camera

By Carl Drotsky


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.

If you don't carry too much extra equipment around with you, a shoulder bag may be just what you need. These work well if you need to change between two lenses quickly because the bag is held so close to your body. Another advantage to shoulder bags is that it doesn't stand out as a camera bag which makes your equipment much less likely from being taken. If your equipment is minimal, another option you can consider is a waist pack. These usually have padding to protect your equipment and are perfect if all you need for a shoot is an SLR camera with a zoom lens and a few other small accessories. When wearing a waist pack, it's important to protect your back by keeping your bag in the middle of your body.

Because backpack camera bags are the most spacious for multiple lenses, filters and flashes, they appeal to those who need to have a wide variety of gear ready to go when on the job. A wedding photographer, for instance, may do best with this sort of bag due to the way venue, style and desired effect can change drastically from wedding to wedding. Because backpacks hold so much gear, a good one will come with many padded sections to protect each item from clanking against each other. Even amongst backpacks, there is quite a variety. Some come with wheels, and some such as the LowePro Computrekker AW come with a waterproof covering for outdoor expeditions. Even if a backpack camera bag is a little past your budget, remember it's worth saving up for if it's the kind of bag your really need to guard your gear.

For those looking for some sort of median between a jumbo backpack and a tiny waist pack, a sling camera bag is an excellent choice. The SlingShot 200 AW is one such camera bag that is spacious yet compact at the same time. Similar to a shoulder bag but a little more secure, there is enough space for your camera and up to four lenses. This is also a great option for those who need quick access to their camera gear, as it takes just a moment to glide it from your back to your front without unfastening a thing. If you're a woman, the only potential downside to this type of camera bag is the way it digs into the center of the chest. Because of this, you should most definitely try it on before purchasing, but even still, many females find the SlingShot 200 quite comfortable.

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.




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