Photo Bag News

Camera bags and carriers come in every shape and style, from highly functional rollers to bags that make a fashion statement whenever you step out the door with your gear. Among the new products appearing this year are those that will fit every photographer for every photo excursion. There are backpacks for day hikers to trekkers, and rollers for making the transition from plane to city streets. Camera carrier makers are always improving product to keep up with the changing needs of photographers and their gear.

One Bag Version 2
The stylish, lightweight One Bag is crafted from ultrahigh-quality wetsuit-grade neoprene. It can easily accommodate a 15” to 17” laptop, photography equipment, and assorted electronics. It features an ultra-soft lining and four pockets, and the Photo Insert allows you to change the laptop bag into a camera gear bag with three pockets for lenses and other gadgets. The designer neoprene strap features leather bindings and stretches to conform to your body. The swappable designer covers are sold separately and allow you to transform your bag for any occasion. Version 2 is 1” wider than the original and offers more accessory pockets. It comes in Black Leather, Midnight Web, and Smokey Damask covers. The suggested price is $128.

There’s a new trend in camera carriers that appeals to photographers who want to look chic while still maintaining the core functionality of the bag. In terms of style they are at polar opposites to rugged backpacks or gear-laden roller bags, yet even the most stylish camera bag has to carry gear in a practical and organized fashion. That includes being built to withstand the rigors of being jostled or bumped in crowds, and being constructed to protect against spilled drinks, or rain at the very least. At the same time, the ideal bag should be built to carry everything we may need on a shoot, and then some.

Having flown my fair share of miles in the last few months I have come to appreciate a roller bag that can be used to carry camera gear, be carried on or checked, and that can help and not hinder the trip. I have gone from using a camera backpack loaded inside a standard roller suitcase (just to get from the airport to the destination) to leaving home gear that I later regretted not bringing...

Our show report this year is an amalgam of product news and trend spotting, which pretty much reflects what photokina has stood for in our minds. The sense of a United Nations of photography still prevails at this increasingly European-directed show, but the image and its uses is still the universal tie that binds.

Tamrac’s Evolution Series
Tamrac’s new Evolution series merges backpack and sling bag in a convertible design that facilitates access when the pack is worn. The bag has a fully customizable, padded lower camera section, plus upper tier for personal items, and will hold a tripod. The Evolution 8 also holds a 15.6” laptop. And for you messenger bag lovers...

Just when I thought I’d seen it all, along come camera bags that capture my attention. Photo backpacks are sporting new looks that are designed to reduce back strain. Messenger bags are seeing a resurgence, doing double duty as laptop and camera bag, while maintaining their svelte lines. The more conventional shoulder bag, however, is still on the scene for those who prefer tradition while...