Photo Bag Reviews

By definition, backpacks are worn—on the back usually—although sometimes they’re just slung over one shoulder or carried by the haul handle. Right? Well, forget that thinking for a moment and let’s explore the Viato photo backpack from Belgian sport optics brand Kite Optics. You wear it, yes, but so does your tripod. Let me explain.

“Born in New York.” That’s what is says on Tenba’s website about their Axis camera backpack lineup. “…tough enough to withstand the rough and tumble city streets and hardcore enough to get you—and your gear—to the other side of the globe for your next big adventure.” For my money, this isn’t just marketing hyperbole—in fact, they left out a lot of compelling adjectives that equally apply, like innovative, stylish and versatile.

It’s not only puppies that suffer from separation anxiety. Tell me that I have to check my camera bag at the airport and I’m going to anxiety all over the place. I might even opt for a Greyhound. So when it comes to selecting a carry-on camera bag, I’m doggone careful. Here are six great camera bags to fly with and a detailed explanation of the rules that surround carry-on baggage size.

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.

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.

Photographers young and old love photo backpacks. Small wonder: they’re easy to carry, as durable as a mountain goat, and they hold a ton of gear. Photo backpacks are available in hundreds of styles and colors, and at every price point. Which to choose? Here are our picks of seven new camera packs that run the gamut from economical to luxurious.

Ardent photographers all have at least one thing in common: we all need a way to carry our gear. Think Tank Photo offers a very wide variety of carry solutions, including one category you may have overlooked.