Photo Bag News

Last year Lowepro launched the ProTactic Series of gadget bags. They immediately earned high marks in my book because they are durable, highly functional and provide superb protection for the gear inside. Initially just two bags, the lineup has grown to six in total, three backpacks and three shoulder bags. Here’s a quick rundown on what they’re all about. 

MindShift Gear BackLight 26L Photo Daypack: Created for outdoor photographers, the rugged BackLight’s back panel opening allows quick access and the zippered rear opening reduces the amount of dust, mud and ice (or other elements) coming in contact with your gear. 

Think Tank Photo recently added a new size to its camera bag line for mirrorless camera systems. The Mirrorless Mover 25i fits one medium (to large) mirrorless body, two to four lenses, an 8-inch tablet and various accessories.

IIncase has teamed up with pro surfer Kelly Slater to release new backpacks and bags designed specifically for action cameras. Called the Incase x Kelly Slater Action Camera Collection, the bag and accessory line was designed for GoPro users and outdoor photography enthusiasts in collaboration with Slater and world-famous water photographer Todd Glaser.

To say that the photo backpack category is a little crowded is like saying that a few people try to board the subways in Tokyo during rush hour. If you’ve ever been to the Land of the Rising Sun and attempted to take mass transportation around 1800 hours (6pm) you know what I mean. Hand-to-hand combat is easier, but probably no harder than trying to find a niche for a new product in this overpopulated photo accessory category.

It seems as if there’s a camera bag for everyone but one thing is certain—I’m sure it’s true for you as well—I’ve got more camera bags than I need! We’re constantly tempted by bags combining functionality with style, from surplus military bags beloved by hipsters to the $2,000 Ghurka Rangefinder No. 57 bag to toss onto your Bentley’s back seat. Todd Hutchings, a commercial photographer on the Monterey Peninsula, introduced me to his use of sports bags to carry equipment because they disguise the bag’s purpose from thieves.