• BeForm: www.nvdslr.com
• Date: 2016-06-29
• Hits: 3554

Convenience- If I can’t get my camera out quickly, I’ll miss photos I’d otherwise want to take. A camera bag that is too small and crowded, or one that doesn’t offer fast access to cameras and lenses, will make it hard to grab my camera. Handy compartments and fast release clips make it easier.

Durability - Well-built camera bags are made of material that won’t rip. The zippers will be sealed from rain (though not necessarily water proof). The buckles are sturdy, made of material that won’t break. And most importantly, the shoulder straps/handles won’t rip at the seams when the bag is heavy.

Comfort - A camera bag can get heavy fast. A couple of lenses, batteries, a flash, and possibly a computer or tablet may all be light on their own, but together it can feel like you are hauling a ton of bricks. It’s important that the bag can distribute the weight so it’s easier to carry. Straps need to be padded and non-slip. The bag should conform to your body and backpacks need to wick sweat away from your back. Backpacks with hip support can take the weight off your shoulders.

Protection - You’ve invested in a DSLR and maybe some lenses. Be sure to protect your investment. The level of padding and protection you need depends on where you are shooting, how you are traveling and so forth. It’s best to get a sturdy bag even if you are walking around city streets as it could fall or be banged against a building. Padded interior dividers are important to keep your camera, lenses and other equipment from banging around and scratching each other.  Water resistant fabric and zippers are good for a light drizzle, but a rain cover is important if you are shooting on a rainy day (or in the Pacific Northwest like I do).

Design - Let’s face it, if you are shooting at a wedding or other event, or in the city, you don’t want some ugly clunky camera bag that looks like you should be wearing it on the trail.  Manufacturers have started hiring accessory designers to beautify camera messenger bags and camera “purses.”  Nicely styled backpacks are both comfortable and durable for a hike yet look nice enough to carry into a restaurant or walking down the street.

Choosing a camera bag is personal. It depends on what equipment you want to carry, and where you will be taking photos. Your friend who is a professional photographer might love their bag but it may not be right for you. As a travel photographer I shoot in a lot of different situations which has afforded me the opportunity to test a variety of bag styles. So we picked the best camera bags in a variety of styles, keeping convenience, durability, comfort, protection and design in mind.