While camera bags often aim for functionality over style, there were several
shoulder bags shown this year that had fashion chic paramount in their design,
and a number of them aimed at the female photo enthusiast. Still, the photo
backpack seemed to dominate when it came to functionality and innovative design,
including two combo packs targeting the hard-core backpacker or serious traveler
and a hard-shell backpack for those truly tough treks. There were also the more
traditional hard-shell cases, although one stood out with a combination case
that even comes with an electronic dehumidifier. Several companies rolled out
their latest wheeled camera luggage, one being especially noteworthy for its
theft-prevention measures.
Boda's philosophy is this: you don't always need a camera bag,
but you do always need a lens bag, which brings us to the Boda Dry bag. This
weatherproof bag is made of ballistic nylon and can be shoulder carried (with
a waist-strap option) and holds as many as five compact lenses (or fewer longer
lenses) within its customizable compartments. It also features a memory card
wallet. The bag measures 9.5x7.5x11.5" and sells for $195. A smaller size
Boda Dry Jr. is also available.
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CameraStorage.com
ABS plastic case |
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CameraStorage.com offers two bags in one. There is the hard-shell, ABS plastic
case with padded, customizable interior, but that fits inside a soft canvas
bag that is shoulder carried. And if that's not enough, it all comes with
an electronic dehumidifier. So if you're planning a trek into the Amazon
with your camera, this could be a good starting point.
Case Logic features dedicated storage compartments and soft interior linings
to protect cameras from scratches that come in a variety of styles, colors,
and designs. The small, lightweight, nylon rucksack is the PSL66 ($79). The
camera remains suspended in the upper section, and the interior is fully configurable
to hold a variety of lenses and accessories. Provision is made for a tripod
and water bottle. The shoulder bag model PSL56 ($49) holds an SLR with lens
attached, an extra lens, and a flash.
Crumpler came out with two products that caught my eye. In fact, one charmed
me into adding it to my "Best of Show" line-up, namely The Period
Charmer and The Cork & Fork combo: a wheeled case and backpack that can
be used in tandem or separately. For now, let's focus on The Rufous Whistler
($90). The bright color scheme and decorative bird array scream good taste,
but not camera gear. Still, it might attract more than a birder's eye
in some places, such as the Charles Bridge in Prague, so a little prudence is
always called for. The Rufous Whistler is a limited edition featuring a water-resistant
1000d nylon shell and 420d ripstop nylon lining, unique touch-fastener silencing
device, a padded and brushed nylon-lined main compartment, configurable dividers,
plastic stiffening layer in base, carry handle, and an adjustable and removable
shoulder strap, plus various pockets.
Delsey (Minox) showed sleek photo packs, plus they've now extended the
line-up to include bags aimed at female photographers shooting in urban environments.
The two new collections encompass four sizes in each. These shoulder bags come
in nylon and leather shells with subtle styling and fully padded, antistatic,
microfiber, customizable interiors (prices range up to $400 for the handmade
leather bags). The largest bag also holds a laptop.
Domke (Tiffen) reintroduced Chocolate Brown color shoulder bags as a Limited
Edition Series. Always a class act, Domke bags boast a rugged, water-resistant
cotton canvas exterior with fully padded interiors and metal hardware. The Domke
F-2 will hold two D-SLRs of any size and 6-10 lenses up to 300mm, plus a flash
unit and pockets for accessories. The shoulder strap is of a nonskid design,
while a removable hand strap is also provided. There are two small bags in this
series as well. Other new Domke bags follow the same general styling, but in
traditional colors.
HPRC displayed some very interesting hard-shell cases, notable among them
the HPRC 3500 backpack. This injection-molded, virtually crushproof backpack
uses a neoprene O-ring to keep it water and airtight. The padded ergonomic back
pad is thicker in critical areas to provide added comfort to shoulders and lumbar
region. Straps feature breathable mesh for quick moisture evaporation. Accessories
are attached to four heavy-duty side loops. It's available in a choice
of two interiors: user-customizable perforated foam ($349) or with laptop sleeve
and dividers ($399). The exterior measures 13x161/4x 61/4".
Camera bags from Jill-e Designs target female photo enthusiasts with products
that are protective of photo gear yet fashion forward and colorful. In addition,
the manufacturer points out that they incorporate features that women may especially
appreciate, such as additional pockets and a detachable personal pouch. The
line includes shoulder bags and soft-sided roller cases.
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Kata
DR-465 Digital Rucksack |
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