Camera backpack vs messenger

Choosing between a pack and a messenger can be like choosing between a Nikon and a Canon. One option isn’t inherently better than the other. Rather, it’s a case of figuring out which one best suits your specific needs. And to do so, it’s handy to think about what you’re carrying, where you’re carrying it, and for how long.

Backpacks are a better choice for heavier and larger loads. That’s because in general they offer better weight distribution, more load stability, and greater comfort over extended periods of use. Backpacks are good for longer photography sessions and for the most part can more easily accommodate a variety of loads versus a messenger or sling which is generally smaller. However, they can be bulky in crowded spaces and make it difficult to access gear quickly. Not necessarily a problem in open outdoor environments or when you can take your time with a shot, but not ideal when you need rapid access or agility in crowds.

How about messengers and slings? They’re great for smaller loads and maneuvering easily through crowded spaces. But one of the main draws is the quick access they offer. Unlike packs that require you to fully or partially remove the bag to get to gear, messengers and slings let you quickly move the bag to the front of your body to access gear, all without taking the bag off. Additionally, they also offer greater flexibility in portability. For instance, they can be worn across the chest or back, over the shoulder, or even round your waist. The downside of messengers and slings? They don’t offer the same degree of weight distribution and extended carry comfort that a pack does. And in general less load stability too (though a stabilizer strap can help). They also don’t generally carry as much gear as a pack, which is good for keeping bulk down but restricts your packing choices to smaller gear setups.

Considering the above, you should have a fairly good idea of whether a pack or messenger/sling best suits your needs. Below we’re going to zoom in on handy tips and recommendations for camera messengers and slings. But if you’re keen to delve into pack alternatives, check out our buyer’s guide to the best camera backpacks.

Now to help you pick the right camera messenger/sling bag for your needs, here are some useful considerations to bear in mind.

Protection from the elements, bumps and scrapes

It’s fairly obvious, you don’t want your precious kit getting exposed to the elements. So look for features such as water-resistant materials, rain covers, and secure designs that avoid side gaps at the top of the flap.

And because you’re in the real world where life isn’t always kind to your gear, you’ll want sufficient padding to protect your gear and provide shock absorption. Plus abrasion-resistant, tough materials to fend off scrapes and handle regular use.

Flexible organization

Good organization makes a big difference to how quickly you can get to gear. Keep an eye out for flexible organization (such as adjustable dividers and a range of pockets) to suit different loads and keep smaller items at the ready. Also keep an eye out for exterior straps that can carry bulkier items such as a tripod.

Easy access to gear

That perfect shot often doesn’t wait around until you’re ready. So you need to be able to access gear fast. Features such as quick-adjust straps, top access without needing to open the flap, and nifty magnetic buckles all assist in making gear easily accessible when you need it.

Adaptable, understated aesthetics

You wouldn’t willingly want to advertise your camera to potential pickpockets. And a camera bag shouldn’t do so either. Understated aesthetics won’t draw attention to expensive gear, helping you avoid unscrupulous scrutiny. Additionally, low-key aesthetics make it easier for the bag to adapt to a variety of photography environments or day-to-day use.

Multi-functional design

While not strictly necessary in a camera bag, a multi-functional design is a handy bonus feature. Consider whether the piece you have your eye on can double as an everyday or travel bag for added flexibility and value for money. Additionally, features such as a stabilizer strap will help keep the load secure, making it easier to move from laidback to more active use such as hiking or cycling with the bag. And if there’s a little bit of expandability to boot? Even better when you need to store a variety of items.

So with the above considerations in mind, we’ve selected some of the best messenger and sling camera bags that are well worth scoping out in your hunt for your next photography partner.

Think Tank Photo Retrospective 7 Shoulder Bag (US$97.75)

Want to keep your camera carry on the down-low? The Think Tank Photo Retrospective 7 is a savvy choice. The understated, minimalist aesthetics don’t advertise “camera bag”, while the functional design and durable build suit frequent use. The bag suits a standard DSLR setup and fits a 10″ tablet or 12″ laptop. And with its hook-and-loop “Sound Silencers” you can access gear discreetly without drawing unwanted attention.

Domke F-3X Shoulder Bag (US$99)

Another solid pick if you’re after low-key aesthetics, the Domke F-3X will appeal to photographers looking for straightforward organization for DSLR setups. The bag is made with weatherproof canvas and offers a range of compartments and pockets to suit different carry loads. There’s also a removable divider for added organization. The bag features an adjustable non-slip Gripper Strap, along with a detachable hand strap.

Think Tank Photo TurnStyle 20 V2.0 Sling Camera Bag (U$99.75)

The TurnStyle 20 is a sleek sling that helps keep you agile with smaller carry loads. The bag fits a standard DSLR and a 10″ tablet and lets you quickly reach gear by easily rotating the bag to your front. Additionally, the bag comes with a stabilizer strap to keep the load stable on the go and that tucks away when not needed. And if you want to switch things up, you can also wear the TurnStyle 20 around your waist to keep gear at the ready. Add in the water-resistant fabric and removable rain cover and you’re covered when those clouds roll in.

f-stop Florentin (US$119)

The clean exterior and adaptable design of the Florentin makes it easy to slip into diverse urban settings with your camera gear in tow. The water-resistant bag provides a front organizer pocket, storage for up to a 12″ tablet, as well as a removable padded camera insert. Three removable dividers let you customize the layout to accommodate a variety of items. The Florentin also provides portability options with top grab handles, a shoulder strap, and a luggage pass-through sleeve.

Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L (US$149.95)

If you’re looking for a bag that packs in the features without looking cluttered, check out Peak Design’s Everyday Sling. The weatherproof bag offers a quick-adjust strap for easy access and load stability. Bottom straps allow you to secure a tripod or outer layer externally. Inside you’ll find customizable organization with FlexFold dividers, as well as dedicated storage for up to a 13″ laptop. Plus the expandable front pocket gives you the flexibility to pack a little extra if needed, serving as a water bottle holder if desired. And for travel ease, the bag packs flat so you can store it in luggage for use as a day bag at your destination.

Tenba DNA 13 Messenger Bag (US$159.95)

The Tenba DNA 13 is built with weatherproof durability in mind, with particular attention paid to the corners to keep the elements out. And for added peace of mind, the bag comes with a removable and reversible WeatherWrap cover. One side of the cover is silver to reflect heat, while the other side is black for a more stealthy aesthetic. The bag offers handy organization that suits a DSLR with two to three lenses. There’s also space for both a 13″ laptop and iPad. A top zipper enables quick access to gear, as do the flap’s convenient Fidlock magnetic clips. Other useful features include a stabilizer strap and a luggage pass-through sleeve.

DSPTCH Camera Shoulder Bag (US$180)

The DSPTCH Camera Shoulder Bag was designed with mirrorless cameras in mind but can still be used for DSLR setups. A top-loading access point lets you quickly reach gear, while exterior straps accommodate a tripod and a quick-access sleeve fits up to a 12″ laptop. The bag includes a removable camera insert, allowing you to convert it into an everyday bag when you don’t need to carry camera gear. There are also multiple positions for attaching the shoulder strap to suit different carry preferences. And for keeping the elements at bay, the bag features a water-resistant and tough nylon exterior and a coated packcloth lining for added protection.

Peak Design Everyday Messenger (from US$219.95)

The multi award-winning Peak Design Everyday Messenger boasts a wealth of features all carefully considered to work well together. The MagLatch closure and expandable design let you easily access and secure the bag while accommodating a variety of loads. The trusty weatherproof build takes everyday use in diverse weather in its stride. Plus there’s plenty of organization adaptability with FlexFold dividers, tripod straps, pockets with color-coded stitching, and a dedicated laptop compartment. You can easily reach gear through a top-access zipper and there’s also a luggage pass-through sleeve for travel needs. And of course, the versatile design works equally well as an everyday or camera bag.

ONA Brixton Camera/Laptop Messenger Bag (US$289)

With its adaptable, heritage vibes the ONA Brixton easily navigates a variety of casual and formal photography and day-to-day settings. It fits a 13″ laptop and also accommodates a 10″ tablet in the back pocket. The Brixton is handcrafted with water-resistant waxed canvas and side weather flaps to help protect gear from the elements. Along with side, front and back pockets, the bag also offers four removable dividers to keep gear neat. Suitable for EDC and camera use, it’s a stylish pick for a range of needs.

WOTANCRAFT Ryker Full Leather Camera Bag (US$329)

Seeking that extra touch of refinement in a compact and classy form? WOTANCRAFT have just the bag for you. Inspired by Leica M cameras, the WOTANCRAFT Ryker is a handsome camera bag that’s great for carrying smaller setups in luxurious style. The bag is beautifully crafted with full-grain leather and smooth YKK METALUXE® Fin zippers. Front pockets and adjustable interior dividers help keep your gear tidy and accessible. And you can also customize it with optional accessories to suit your personal preferences.

The post The 10 Best Camera Bags 2018: Messengers and Slings appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Photography

Nixon x C.R. Stecyk III Limited Edition Collaboration

Street culture fuses with considered practicality in the Nixon x C.R. Stecyk III Limited Edition Collaboration. California-based accessories brand Nixon joins forces with artist C.R. Stecyk III, a pioneer of the Dogtown skate ethos and street art progenitor, to deliver this two-piece capsule. The C.R. Stecyk III Limited Edition Logic Ops Camera Bag merges tactical style with useful organization for diverse loads. Multiple pockets, compartments, pouches, MOLLE webbing and tripod straps let you tailor setups to stay on top of changing needs. They’ve made just 100 bags, so you better be quick off the mark if you’re keen to snag one. Also forming part of the capsule is the C.R. Stecyk III Limited Edition Descender Watch, a stainless steel watch that is water-resistant to 30ATM and comes with a Cerakote graffiti splattered case and custom caseback. Like the bag, only 100 watches were made.

Think Tank Photo Retrospective V2.0 Series

Think Tank Photo brings modern updates to classic styling with their Retrospective V2.0 series of shoulder bags. Lighter than the originals, the series offers five sizes of bag to suit a variety of camera setups. The bags now feature a zippered opening under the main flap for added security. And if you don’t need it, you can store it out of the way until required. You’ll also find storage for a tablet or laptop, a luggage handle pass-through sleeve, plus a compressible water bottle pocket. Additionally, Think Tank Photo improved their “Sound Silencer” technology, so you can work quietly and not draw unnecessary attention. Speaking of avoiding unwanted attention, the low-key aesthetics mean they don’t look like they’re carrying expensive gear either.

Ethnotek ETK OPTIKS Camera Bag Collection

Ethnotek bags feature eye-catching handmade textiles sourced from artisan villages around the world. Now they’re bringing their colorful style of carry to the camera world with their ETK OPTIKS Camera Bag Collection. The collection features the Raja Photo Pack, the Desa Sling Pouch and the Kota Camera Strap. The 30L Raja Photo Pack is an adaptable pack for commuting, camera gear and weekend adventures. It accommodates a variety of interchangeable front panels called Threads, allowing you to easily alter the bag’s aesthetics while supporting a variety of textile artisans. The pack provides front and side access to camera gear, a range of dividers and organization pockets, as well as a laptop pocket. The pack also has separate storage in the main compartment for personal gear and includes a removable waist belt.

Everyday

Mystery Ranch Street Zen

Looking for a little calm in your everyday carry chaos? Mystery Ranch has a versatile solution on hand with their Street Zen. An adaptable everyday pack built with the urban, active commuter in mind. The front EDC compartment features a dual zipper and Velcro closure and lets you reach frequently used items without taking the bag off. The main compartment features a Speedzip zipper and buckled handle closure for added portability and security. The floating, padded laptop compartment keeps tech safe on the go, while additional pockets are on hand for smaller items. And with its lifetime guarantee you can feel confident venturing forth with this pack in tow.

Code of Bell TOURER Collection X-PAK PRO

Code of Bell caught the carry world’s attention with their X-PAK series. Now their new TOURER collection provides a minimalist take on the originals. The TOURER X-PAK-PRO blends form and function, incorporating weatherproof cotton duck fabric in its stylish and multifunctional design. Two separate compartments let you organize gear for a variety of work, travel, and day-to-day needs. The 11L volume can increase to 23L through the expandable front compartment, handy for larger items or last-minute souvenirs. The bag fits a 13″ laptop, with multiple pockets for organization.

The Brown Buffalo Concealsling

Just because a load is small doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve a considered carry approach. And a considered approach is what The Brown Buffalo provides with the Concealsling. Function meets slick urban style with a sleek and durable design to carry minimalist loads. The sling offers quick-access pockets, along with a zipped main compartment with additional organization. The sling can be worn across the chest or back and works well across a range of day-to-day and travel environments. It features a mix of abrasion-resistant and water-resistant 420D Nylon and 210D Nylon Ripstop, in a choice of versatile colorways.

master-piece Rim Series

Japanese carry experts master-piece have honed decades of experience to deliver dialed-in form and function. Their Rim Series demonstrates this expertise across a range of everyday bags including a backpack, sling bag, tote bag and two shoulder bags. master-piece crafts the series with high-density nylon twill and vegetable-tanned leather detailing. The bags feature a water-repellent finish and a two-tone colorway with a subtle glossy aesthetic. Complementing the fashion-forward aesthetics is convenient access, with four zipper pulls to open the bags at different places to easily reach specific items while keeping the rest of your gear secured.

master-piece Lightning Dye Series

If striking aesthetics in practical pieces capture your attention, then the master-piece Lightning Dye Series is not one to miss. The series features a unique dyeing process that dyes the surface of the fabric as well as the back, using a hands-on approach and bleeding technique to distort the dye patterns. The result? The kind of bags you can’t help but take a second (and likely third and fourth) look at. The series includes two backpacks and a sling bag for versatile everyday or travel carry use.

wings+horns x Porter Daypack

Porter make some of the slickest urban carry around. Team them up with wings+horns, a designer and manufacturer with a refined blend of Japanese and Canadian design experience, and you’re in for a treat. This collaborative daypack is based on Porter’s Tanker series and is crafted by Porter in Japan using ripstop taffeta and nylon satin side panels. Functional storage complements the pared-back style including external zip pockets, side pockets with snap closures, and a padded sleeve with a Velcro closure.

Bedouin Foundry Delireis SE

Bedouin Foundry are well known for their handsome waxed canvas bags. But they take a different tack with this special edition of the Delireis. The bag is handmade in England using 170gsm Dyneema composite fabric and features AustriAlpin Cobra buckles. The rolltop pack includes a laptop sleeve and two exterior sleeve pockets, with sealed cell padding on the back panel and base. Tough yet lightweight, it comes in at 540 grams. Bedouin Foundry have already sold out the first batch but you can pre-order for the new batch now.

Vertx EDC Gamut – Midnight Navy/Stone

The Vertx EDC Gamut offers a well-thought-out mix of functional design, durability and organization. And they’ve introduced a new colorway so you can add a little color pop to your carry setup. A good option if you want to step away from more subdued color options but still keep things relatively low-key, the Midnight Navy/Stone looks suitably at home in both urban and outdoor settings.

Aer x Oshman’s City Sling

Aer’s distinctive urban style and functionality gets a Japanese twist with the release of the Aer x Oshman’s City Sling. The sling is available in gray water-resistant 900D eco-dyed polyester and black water-resistant 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon. Simple, sleek and designed for your small essentials, the bag features a front pocket, interior pockets and concealed rear pocket for valuables. The adjustable strap provides multiple carry options including across the back, chest, on the shoulder or around the waist. It’s available now exclusively at Oshman’s in Japan.

Y-3 Utility Backpack

Fancy a generous dose of avant-garde style in your carry collection? Then the Y-3 Utility Backpack should be on your radar. The brand is a collaboration between Yohji Yamamoto and adidas, offering fashion-forward yet practical designs. The over-sized pack features a drawstring main compartment with a fold-over top. Side pockets, an interior zip pocket and a padded laptop compartment help keep your gear tidy, while compression straps let you adjust the bag to suit different loads.

Ally Capellino Pendleton Travel/Cycle Body Bag 

Forming part of Ally Capellino’s Travel/Cycle collection, the Pendleton carries essentials in clean and durable style. Wearable as a cross-body or waist bag, it’s made with highly water-resistant Cordura Nylon. Lightweight but hard-wearing, the bag includes a reflective strip, taped zips and a choice of pockets to keep gear organized.

Ally Capellino Frank Large Waxed Cotton Utility Rucksack

Casual-chic in style and thoughtfully designed for versatile use, Ally Capellino’s Frank Rucksack lends itself to work, travel and everyday use. The bag combines water-resistant British waxed cotton and a leather base. The distinct boxy silhouette brings style and function to the table, with a wide opening for easy packing and access. Inside you’ll find an interior laptop sleeve and zipped pocket, along with two exterior front pockets and top carry handles.

Ally Capellino Hoy Travel/Cycle Rucksack

Whether you’re looking for elevated style in your gym bag, understated elegance for the commute, or an adaptable overnight bag, the Hoy Travel/Cycle Rucksack has you covered. Built to withstand regular use and inclement weather, the bag features water-resistant Cordura nylon, weatherproof zips, and Italian bridle leather handles. It offers a 13″ tech sleeve, a reflective strip and a D-ring for securing a bike light.

Malle London Lost Collection

In travel, getting lost sometimes leads to the greatest adventures. And being prepared to get lost and explore the unknown is the guiding design principle behind UK moto brand, Malle London’s new Lost Collection. Honed in style and utility, each piece is made by hand using premium British waxed canvas, organic cotton, bridle leather and brass hardware. Features such as impact protection and 100% waterproof membranes further enhance the collection’s functionality. Guaranteed for life and designed to age gracefully, the pieces in the collection cater to a range of travel and day-to-day needs. Chic, durable and practical, the collection includes the Adrian Adventurer Duffel, John Hybrid Backpack, Dash-Pack, John Hybrid Leather Backpack, Edward Backpack, Garment Duffel, Bonnie Backpack, Moto Wallet and Tom Leather Digital Folio.

Villager Supplies 3Up Nintendo Switch Bag

There are lots of great bags to carry day-to-day items. But bags specifically designed for gamer carry needs? A much more elusive prospect. Villager Supplies are looking to change that with the 3Up. The bag is specifically designed to provide protection for your Nintendo Switch and gaming accessories, along with storage for small daily essentials too. Impact-resistant padding provides peace of mind on the move, while a variety of pockets offer convenient organization so you can get to gear in a jiffy. And with its urban-friendly aesthetics and multiple carry options, you can carry gaming gear and EDC in style.

Travel

DUER Men’s 24 Hour T-Shirt

Smart travel wardrobe choices are key to keeping your packing to a minimum. And the DUER Men’s 24 Hour T-Shirt is a solid pick. It features a unique blend of cotton, Tencel, and Spandex for a great mix of breathability, odor control, and stretch. The 360 Stretch allows freedom of movement in any direction, enhanced by the invisible DUER gusset which enables a greater range of motion and avoids premature wear and tear. The Tencel provides natural moisture absorption and odor control benefits. An adaptable t-shirt that moves from the gym to work to the weekend, it’s a versatile choice for one-bag travel and minimalist packing.

DUER Men’s 9 to 9 Button Down Shirt

Another smart wardrobe choice for everyday and travel needs is the DUER Men’s 9 to 9 Button Down Shirt. It features a blend of cotton, COOLMAX, and Spandex, providing office-friendly style with the functionality, comfort and stretch of active apparel. The Spandex and invisible DUER gusset enable comfortable movement. And for added practicality the COOLMAX wicks moisture while keeping you cool on the go.

Vessi Footwear Waterproof Knit

You’ve got the shirts covered but what about the footwear? Bulky shoes take up a lot of carry space, so it’s important to pick a pair that adapts easily to diverse settings. A pair like the Vessi Footwear Waterproof Knit. Not only are these shoes lightweight and comfortable, they’re also 100% waterproof. The specialized knit textile upper is waterproof, breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor resistant, a perfect mix for tackling a range of environments and weather conditions. And with their four-way stretch, the knit uppers will conform to your feet for improved fit.

Mission Workshop The Sans

Many packable jackets don’t go beyond a simple shell to reach for in a shower or light breeze. But Mission Workshop created the Sans to be different. A packable jacket that goes above and beyond. A great ultralight option for minimalist packing, but without sacrificing technical details and functionality. The jacket weighs just 5.6 ounces, but is packed with useful features including stretch, multiple hood adjustments and a zipped chest pocket. It’s crafted with 50 gsm 3-layer fabric made especially for Mission Workshop by Japan-based Toray. The fabric features Toray’s high-performance, waterproof and breathable Entrant® microporous membrane with a water column rating of 30,000 and MVTR of 30,000+. Waterproof, windproof, and breathable, the jacket also includes underarm ventilation holes and a weatherproof YKK zipper.

Stuart & Lau Accessory Collection

Stuart & Lau expand on their suave carry range with a dapper collection of accessories designed to meet the modern man’s transient lifestyle. Considered in function and style, the collection introduces five new pieces. The Slim Wallet is crafted with full-grain Italian leather, a suede pocket for notes, and an RFID-blocking lining. It offers storage for multiple cards while maintaining its slim form, and includes a back pocket for quick access to a travel card. For a more minimalist option consider the Card Holder. Made with full-grain leather, it features a central divider and a bottom cutout to push up and easily access cards. Taking care of your tech is the Laptop Sleeve, crafted with weatherproof DuraLiteᵀᴹ Fabric, full-grain leather detailing, and magnetic flap closures. The expanding concertina design accommodates work essentials, while the back sleeve pocket stores quick-access items.

The Stuart & Lau Toiletry Kit is also made with DuraLiteᵀᴹ Fabric and full-grain leather trim, with a handy rubberized wipe-clean lining. The clamshell opening maximizes storage and easy access, with a toothbrush sleeve and included transparent TSA-friendly wet bag adding to the functionality. For keeping travel essentials tidy look to the Travel Wallet. It’s made with DuraLiteᵀᴹ Fabric and full-grain leather trim and offers multiple interior dividers and pockets to keep travel essentials tidy and accessible on the go.

Outdoors

Rivendell Mountain Works x Natal Design Jensen Pack

There’s a huge appreciation for heritage outdoor gear in Japan, especially gear with a story and distinct aesthetic behind it. And the Rivendell Mountain Works Jensen Pack is definitely that kind of gear. A revolutionary piece that’s inspired designers and outdoor brands for decades, the Jensen Pack has no internal frame but instead uses the contents to maintain its structure. And now it’s getting a style-savvy update from Natal Design. The Japanese brand is a big proponent of learning from the past while creating products with a sense of fun for modern-day users. And that’s what this collaboration provides. Made by hand with 1000D nylon, the updated Jensen comes in a bold striped print and camo print for a striking blend of heritage form and urban-friendly fashion.

The post Best New Gear: September 2018 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Daniel Beltrá, Conservation photographer

Protecting the camera when shooting in difficult conditions begins long before you get to your photo location. You have to take care of the gear the moment you set foot out the door!

Pack of Choice

I like to use my MindShift FirstLight 30 backpack when I don’t have to take too much gear with me out into the field. The fabric and coatings used for it provide excellent water resistance.

Hack

But when I know things could potentially turn real hairy, I’ll bring a couple of large heavy-duty garbage bags along, too. Especially if having a Pelican case or similar is not convenient. I will put the camera bag inside the plastic bag and tie the top into a knot if I’m going on a boat, and sometimes I’ve even lined the interior of a camera bag with one of these bags, so that there’s an extra layer on top of that. While this might strike some as a little extreme, doing this absolutely saved an entire shoot for me when a Zodiac boat capsized in the surf as I was coming ashore from the Arctic Ocean to Barrow, Alaska. If it weren’t for the $0.05 garbage bag, my gear and film – this was a while ago – would have sunk in the water and been completely ruined.

“Protecting the camera when shooting in difficult conditions begins long before you get to your photo location. You have to take care of the gear the moment you set foot out the door!”

One other “hack” that I use when I have to check luggage on a flight, I wrap my inflatable mattress pad around my tripod, tighten it with some straps and slightly inflate it, to create a quasi-airbag for it.

Finally, each night when I’m done shooting out in a moist, grungy environment like a rainforest, I’ll clean the gear with a small microfiber/chamois cloth, put it flat in a dry bag, toss in a couple of reusable silica packets, and suck out as much of the air as I can. Overnight this will dry out the gear thoroughly.

“I will put the camera bag inside the plastic bag and tie the top into a knot if I’m going on a boat, and sometimes I’ve even lined the interior of a camera bag with one of these bags, so that there’s an extra layer on top of that.”

Humidity

When I’m traveling for a shoot in very humid environments like the Amazon rainforest, I’ll often keep my gear/camera bag at a warm temperature in a basic Styrofoam cooler. If it takes a long car drive to get to a location, and we use the air conditioning in the vehicle, it’s important to protect the gear from a rapid temperature drop (and subsequent fogging up).  I do this by keeping it warm in a cooler. If it starts out warm, it will stay warm. I also use this trick when I’m shooting from ships in the polar regions – I keep my gear outside in a cooler so that it remains cold. So instead of it getting warmed inside the ship and then being fogged up as soon as I come out for a polar bear that’s 10 meters from the deck, walking on an ice floe, I have gear that’s ready to be used at a moment’s notice.

“When I’m traveling for a shoot in very humid environments like the Amazon rainforest, I’ll often keep my gear/camera bag at a warm temperature in a basic Styrofoam cooler.”

Rain

For dealing with rain when I’m shooting, I like the ThinkTank Hydrophobia covers. The ones for the long telephoto glass can be pre-staged to be deployed in less than 30 seconds if I’m quick and/or motivated, while the one for the 70-200mm lens preserves a lot of functionality for the camera with good weather protection while allowing me to be very mobile. In terms of less sophisticated gear, I will often tape or clamp a big golf umbrella to my tripod when shooting in the rain. Sometimes I’ll just wedge it into my backpack also. It’s not a very sophisticated solution to the rain problem, but it works well as long as it isn’t windy.

“In terms of less sophisticated gear, I will often tape or clamp a big golf umbrella to my tripod when shooting in the rain. Sometimes I’ll just wedge it into my backpack also.”

Wind

Wind can be a big problem even if it isn’t raining. I never put a camera bag on the ground if it is windy, *especially* on a beach. Beyond sand, there’s a lot of dust and debris that the wind picks up a foot or so from the surface, so I’m always on the lookout for large rocks, or pieces of driftwood, or tree branches that I can elevate the bag up with. If it is really windy, I will take off the lens hoods, since it is possible in extreme cases for the wind to knock them off. I usually tape down the autofocus selector switches on the lenses and any controls on the camera that I don’t need to change while shooting. When I shoot from open windows in planes, I always take the hoods off to lower the vibrations the wind creates.

Dust

While I do bring a hand-squeezed air blower, I think the best way to beat dust is to change lenses as least often as possible, if ever. This only works if you have enough bodies for all the lenses you’re using, but it does really limit the potential for dust to damage your sensor.

“While I do bring a hand-squeezed air blower, I think the best way to beat dust is to change lenses as least often as possible, if ever.”

Essentials

Among other items I usually bring along is a compact ground sheet made by MindShift, called the Contact Sheet; it gives me a clean, dry surface to put my gear down on wherever I go. I also carry a multi-tool made by Really Right Stuff. It has a lot of functionality for making adjustments or basic repairs to the tripod and camera gear out in the field. Finally, gaffers tape, which I wrap around the poles of my tripod and super telephoto (300mm or more, f2.8) lens hoods. This way I can keep tape at hand when I need it without having to carry a roll with me.

“Among other items I usually bring along is a compact ground sheet made by MindShift, called the Contact Sheet; it gives me a clean, dry surface to put my gear down on wherever I go.”

Chris Brinlee Jr., Storyteller

Pack of Choice

I don’t ever use camera-specific bags (they are bulky, and for what I’m shooting, carry for the adventure is the primary consideration) so my camera just gets stuffed into the top of a backcountry pack when not in use. Currently, I’m using the Cotopaxi Nepal 65L.

Rain

If there’s a chance of inclement weather, I keep the Shell handy – it can be a lifesaver in the rain. When my camera is stuffed in my pack the Shell helps protect my body from anything else (oftentimes climbing gear) that can be rattling around in there with it.

“I also don’t ever use camera-specific bags (they are bulky, and for what I’m shooting, carry for the adventure is the primary consideration) so my camera just gets stuffed into the top of a backcountry pack when not in use.”

Snow

For shooting in snow, it helps to use a weather-sealed body and lens – and when combined with the Shell, you can get solid wet weather protection. Keep a few microfiber cloths handy and in a water/sweatproof pocket. Wipe often. Chances are that there will still be smears, but do what you can. It helps having multiple cloths to rotate through. Your lens is gonna get wet. Just deal with it the best that you can (a lens hood can help too.)

“For shooting in snow, it helps to use a weather-sealed body and lens – and when combined with the Shell, you can get solid wet weather protection.”

Batteries are often problematic to keep dry and warm. I keep mine in a small Hyperlite Mountain Gear drawstring stuff sack (for sweat/weather protection) in my pants pocket (body heat from my thighs is usually enough to keep them warm) but if it’s really cold, I’ll put them in an inside jacket pocket. It can also help to stuff a hot hand in the stuff sack if it’s really cold.

Essentials

Most of my camera carry is from Peak Design. The CapturePRO allows me to keep my camera accessible, but secured and out of the way while moving through the mountains; the Slide strap keeps it secured around my shoulder when shooting.

“The CapturePRO allows me to keep my camera accessible, but secured and out of the way while moving through the mountains; the Slide strap keeps it secured around my shoulder when shooting.”

Camilla Rutherford, Adventure Photographer

Pack of Choice

I always carry my camera gear in a f-stop camera pack with internal camera units (ICUs). They are the best for anyone shooting in outdoor environments and are the best adventure camera packs out there. They work like a normal pack, very comfy and ergonomically designed to carry the weight with little stress on your body. With the changeable ICUs you can choose which one you need depending on what mission you are on. If you are camping overnight and only need to take a basic camera setup but need room for a tent etc. this is possible. If you are skiing and need space for avalanche gear and straps to hold your skis and ice axe, they are there. There are pockets to stash rubbish, easy access to your camera gear, small pockets for CF cards…the list goes on, they’ve thought of everything!

“I always carry my camera gear in a f-stop camera pack with internal camera units (ICUs). They are the best for anyone shooting in outdoor environments and are the best adventure camera packs out there.”

Snow

When shooting on snow and when its deep powder, it can be really tricky to keep snow from getting into your pack. I always stop, stamp out a bit of a platform with my skis and take my bag off, leaving the waist strap on but loose around my middle. I can then open the back flap and get what gear I need out, taking very special care when changing lenses, always holding the DSLR exposed mirror down and away from falling snow and changing lenses as quickly as possible, always taking the lens cap off first and the lens of the camera second; you want to expose the DSLR for as little time as possible.

“When shooting on snow and when its deep powder, it can be really tricky to keep snow from getting into your pack. I always stop, stamp out a bit of a platform with my skis and take my bag off, leaving the waist strap on but loose around my middle.”

I always keep my bag on and closed when shooting in deep snow. Even if you think your skier is far enough away you’ll be surprised how snow can bury or sweep your camera bag away from you faster than you can catch it!

Oh, and if it’s really cold, batteries can drain super fast, so always keep one inside your jacket!

Rain / Snow / Dust

For most extreme conditions I always use a Peak Design Shell to protect my camera. They are great at keeping rain and dust off your gear without compromising ease of use.

Essentials

Of course, like most, I’ve used plastic bags and tape to keep my camera gear dry! But now with companies like Peak Design making awesome rain covers it’s way easier than a makeshift cover. I do always keep a bag cover and the shield in my bag for unexpected rainfall. Also always have a multitude of lens cloths and a pocket blower to clean dust off the lens while on location.

“I do always keep a bag cover and the shield in my bag for unexpected rainfall. Also always have a multitude of lens cloths and a pocket blower to clean dust off the lens while on location.”

If out on an adventure shoot I always take the following: Suncream and insect repellent, a safety blanket, plasters and painkillers, a Leatherman, spare layer, hat and gloves, rain cover for backpack and shield for camera, a compass and a head torch, my mobile phone and Smith sunglasses. These are the basics that pretty much always live in my camera bag. On top of that there is camera gear! It can get pretty heavy…

The post Rain, Snow, Humidity or Dust :: Tips to Protect Camera Gear appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

My work chiefly involves the fly-fishing industry, which means while one week may find me on drift boats in Montana, the next might find me on pangas in Belize. Often travelling to the destinations is half the battle, and my gear needs to be ready to adapt — from commercial airports to riding helicopters to small boats. Most importantly, I need to be mobile and adaptable. Underwater photography equipment almost always makes the trip along with me — it’s crucial for observing fish in their natural habitat, and providing a fresh perspective on the pursuit of fly fishing.

In addition to camera and personal gear, I carry necessary fishing gear — rods, reels, flies, wading equipment, boots…the list goes on and on. While some locations have been fished before and have established, dependable fly selections, often for expeditionary shoots I must carry a wide variety of equipment to see what works for the given fish population. While my main role is as a photographer and writer, I often take on the role as angler to help bring fish to hand for photos. Fish are always handled carefully and then released back into the water, to be caught another day.

I need gear that can take me from a tropical atoll in the South Pacific to above the Arctic Circle in the backwoods of Russia. And while the kit will vary slightly from assignment to assignment, the basics remain the same. After years of trial and error, I’ve found gear that holds up to abuse and allows me to focus on the important work — making images.

Gear List:

Bags:

Patagonia 120L Black Hole Duffel

Pelican 1510 Case with Foam (for underwater housing and on-boat use)

Pelican 1510 Case with Dividers and Lid Organizer (effectively home base for tech)

“The Pelicans are a crucial part of my kit. While sometimes heavy and awkward to haul around in vehicles and aircraft, the protection they offer is superb. One goes with me on the boat every day, keeping cameras dry while I work with the underwater gear, and it’s a saving grace in pop-up squalls. They also make a pretty reasonable workstation in basic conditions.”

Patagonia Stormfront Waterproof Roll-Top Backpack

“I pulled the innards out of an old camera bag and slid the structural liner into this backpack. Now it’s my go-to for boat use, travel, and cramped quarters. And as an added bonus — it’s awfully hard for pickpockets to get into.”

Think Tank Photo Retrospective 30 Shoulder Bag

Camera Gear:

Canon 5D Mark III (2)

Canon 5D Mark II

“The Mark II was my first DSLR. Now I’ve added on a pair of Mark IIIs, but the II always makes the trip. When I’m shooting off a boat, I’ll have one camera in the underwater housing, one fitted with a long lens, and one with a wide-angle. It covers all the critical bases.”

Canon 17-40mm

Canon 70-300mm

Canon 24-70mm

Aquatic Underwater Housing

“AquaTech has been a great partner for me. This housing has swum with salmon in Alaska and been curiously munched by blacktip sharks in the South Pacific. It’s a workhorse.”

Filter Set (Tiffen and B+W, circular polarizers and protective UV filter for each lens)

Lowepro memory card wallet

Cleaning kit (assorted cleaning gear in an old Altoids tin — low-profile and easy to stick in a pocket)

Rain covers for cameras (OP/TECH USA rain sleeves)

Buff (emergency camera cover, wipe, etc.)

“Multiple Buffs always slip into my bags. One to keep the sun off myself, one to keep in the camera bag for emergency cleaning, and a few just float around. An awesome, relatively cheap piece of gear with so many uses.”

Manfrotto Befree Tripod

Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash

Canon flash tether

Canon Remote Release

Spare camera batteries

Scrim kit

Desiccants

SOG multi-tool

Tikka 2 Core Rechargeable Headlamp

Editing Gear / Other Tech

MacBook Pro

LaCie hard drives with assorted cords

Memory card reader (and backup)

iPhone

Assorted chargers

Goal Zero Sherpa 100 Kit

Goal Zero Outdoor Speakers (awesome on boats!)

Pelican locks for all cases / bags

Power inverter / adapters

Small travel power strip (useful when there’s only one outlet)

Personal Equipment

Rite in the Rain notebook and various pens

Skullcandy headphones

Chapstick (plenty of it), sunscreen, bug spray (Sun Bum makes the best sun protection!)

Passport (and extra copies hidden in each bag)

Travel paperwork (visa, carnet, camera insurance information — copies hidden in each bag)

Comprehensive first aid kit, including antibiotics

“Things go wrong on shoots. It’s inevitable. And coral cuts mixed with saltwater and local insects can lead to some pretty nasty infections. I always pack a first aid kit with the basics, along with enough antibiotics to last the trip. A suture kit is also in the bag – often in third-world countries needles are reused and this is one easy way to avoid issues there.”

Snorkeling kit — flippers, mask, and snorkel

GRAYL water filtration bottle

Sea to Summit pack towels

Costa sunglasses (the Cocos frame is a current favorite)

Voke tabs

“These energy tabs are made in my home state of Montana, and offer non-jittery energy for those moments when I’m crashing hard. And they’re compact!”

Fishing Gear

Fly rods – G. Loomis and Orvis currently make up most of my quiver

Fly reels – Hatch and Nautilus

Terminal tackle (leaders, tippet, flies, nippers)

Hatch Nomad Pliers

Buff

Simms Women’s G3 Waders and Wading Boots (Flats Sneaker for saltwater, RiverTek 2 Boa prototype for fresh), if needed

“Often on trips I don’t know the quality of anglers on location, and bring my own gear in case we need to get fish to hand for shots. And, yeah, it’s hard to be in some of these locations and not take the opportunity to wet a line!”

Softgoods

KÜHL splash pants

Old, lightweight fishing pants

“Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt are important for boat use during sunny, hot days, and at night to protect against insects in tropical environments.”

KÜHL travel skirt

Icebreaker Allure dress

Patagonia Sol Patrol shirt

“These shirts are a favorite. Comfortable and easy to pull on even when I’m wet, they offer stellar sun protection — I don’t get burned through my shirts like I do sometimes with other brands — and the close-fitting neck and hood offer another level of protection.

Patagonia Sunshade Hoody

Buff bamboo scarf

Patagonia River Salt jacket

Patagonia Nano Puff

Teva Originals sandals (ancient)

Teva flip-flops

Patagonia bikini

Patagonia Baggies

Patagonia base layers

Ball cap

Dopp kit

The post Packing List :: Outdoor Photojournalist appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.