Photo Bag Reviews

It’s better to give than to receive—but receivin’ ain’t so bad, either, especially if your gift list includes one or two of my favorites, which I’ve described for you here. Or if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the photo person in your life, here are your crib notes.

We’re right in the middle of Photokina frenzy, and you’re probably looking for news about groundbreaking new products, not cases or other more mundane accessories. Understood! So file this for later when the clamor from Cologne subsides. This is a lens case shopping guide with dos and don’ts and some personal brand recommendations.

You’ve admired Kelly Moore photo bags and backpacks for their innovative designs, distinguished style and well-deserved reputation for high quality and durability. Perhaps you didn’t know that their extensive lineup of extraordinary products includes models designed especially for men.

Gadget bags and photo backpacks comes and go. There are many reasons; styles change, materials improve; competitors rip off designs and build cheaper clones. Sometimes manufacturers develop “cost down” models to lower production costs and increase profits. But sometimes bags stick around for years and evolve into stronger, lighter, cooler and all-around better products. Lowepro decided to improve a very popular and good selling line, the Lowepro Photo Sport AW (All Weather) Backpack series. It takes a lot of nerve to try to improve upon a favorite. Did they succeed? Let’s find out

The Rhake—a weather-resistant, roll-top backpack from Mission Workshop—accepts a custom-fitted capsule that converts it into a camera backpack. According to the manufacturer, Rhakes are “made by hand in small batches in the USA,” and judging from the workmanship, I’d say that’s an accurate statement.

If you’re serious about climbing or hiking you’re familiar with Mountainsmith. They’ve been a player in the outdoor equipment industry for nearly 40 years. The Mountainsmith TAN series, designed with help from world renowned photographer Chris Burkard, is their latest entry in the world of photo backpack carry solutions. What do they bring to the party? Innovative design, superior durability and products crafted from real-world experience. 

The Madame Curie Electron Camera Bag, one of several included in this review, glows in the dark. After using it for two weeks, I now glow in the dark, too. Read about this bag and several other products, including my favorite: the Julius Caesar Photographers Toga.