By Carl Drotsky


Those who shop around for a camera bag today will not be lacking in choices. With a variety of brands, shapes and sizes, it isn't actually that easy to make a decision. You really need to know the photography equipment you will be carrying around, and not only that, you need the equipment you plan to be using in the near future. Most great photographers update their camera and lens inventory a couple times a year, but that doesn't mean you should have to buy a new camera bag just as often. If you're the type of photographer who enjoys adventures like trekking deep into the bush to get the best wildlife shots, then you need an especially comfortable and durable bag.

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.

For those photographers who prefer having a large variety of camera equipment with them, a backpack is the way to go. With many padded compartments, you will have plenty of space for your lenses, flashes, filters and charges as well as the peace of mind that it will all be protected. Some bags such as the LowePro Computrekker AW even come with a waterproof cover incase you find yourself caught in the rain. Other backpacks come with wheels which enable you to roll it if it's too heavy to carry continuously. The most important thing to consider when buying a backpack camera bag is whether or not the straps have good padding. Because you're likely to spend hours at a time carrying equipment, it's worth paying a bit extra for a bag that will make it easier on your back and shoulders.

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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