Bagging It
Something for storing and carrying your equipment is at the top of the essential accessories list. You could use just about anything for this — a backpack, briefcase, even a purse — but it's a better idea to invest in a good camera bag specifically designed for this purpose. It will do a better job of protecting your camera and other equipment.
Soft-sided camera bags are far and away the most popular ones out there. They come in lots of different shapes and sizes and are available in all price ranges.
FIGURE 7-1 The needs of those shooting with an SLR versus a point-and-shoot camera are very different. The small bag on the left will adequately protect a small camera, but a larger bag with room for extra lenses is needed for an SLR.
Soft-sided camera bags are made out of several different materials. Heavyweight waterproof ballistic nylon is one of the most durable. A good choice is waterproof Cordura nylon.
Hard-shell camera cases offer the most protection for your gear, but they are heavy and often very expensive. They're also favorite targets for thieves. Unless you plan to travel a great deal with your equipment, there's little reason to invest in one.
All but the most basic camera bags have individual compartments or dividers to help keep your camera and lenses from rubbing together and banging into each other when you carry them. Higher-end bags often have adjustable dividers to allow for different camera bodies and lens sizes. Most bags also have at least one outside pocket for storing such items as lens covers, filters, instruction booklets, cleaning equipment, and so on.
Camera bags also come in a variety of styles. The most popular — and the one favored by most professional photographers — are shoulder bags. These bags feature zip-around tops that flip open to reveal the equipment nestled in the bottom of the bag. They can be easily accessed as you carry them, and they are great for taking pictures on the fly, as you can reach in and assemble your equipment while you're walking (or running!).
Another popular choice, especially for hikers and others who like to shoot in the field, are photo backpacks. They're similar to regular back-packs, but with more padding to protect the equipment. They also have compartments like shoulder bags do. Waist packs or hip bags are options for people who don't want the weight of their equipment on their shoulders or backs.
Just like there's no one camera that's right for everyone, no one camera bag will fit the bill for all. Go to a good camera store and test drive the ones that appeal to you. Look for bags with good, solid construction and tight, even stitching. Check out the divider system — it should offer enough compartments for your camera and the lenses you plan to carry most often. More expensive bags will have adjustable dividers so you can custom fit the compartments to your equipment.
Here are some good features to consider:
Two-way zippers. Lets you access the bag from both sides.
Waterproof material. Unless they're designed for underwater use, cameras and water don't mix. If you're considering a bag made of waterproof Cordura nylon, which is notoriously tough on clothing, it should have a material protector on the back. Another good water-protection feature is a rain flap over the zipper track. It'll help keep dust out, too.
Handle and strap. Having both adds versatility to your bag. In a pinch, the strap on some bags can be used as a camera strap.
Detachable film pocket. Allows you to remove the film when your equipment goes through airport scanners. They're also handy for long-term film storage. Just fill it up and stick it in your fridge.
Exterior pocket. Makes it easy to get at filters, manuals, cleaning supplies, and so on.
Tie straps and d-rings. Useful for carrying tripods and for attaching accessories such as waist belts or backpack harnesses.
Reinforced sides and bottom. Essential with larger bags.
Finally, pick a bag that will comfortably handle the equipment you plan to use regularly. Pack a small bag with the equipment you need and leave the rest at home. If you can afford to buy two bags, get one with more capacity for storing all your equipment at home or to use when you need to carry more gear than your smaller bag can handle.
