I am a professional wedding photographer and I'm always on the hunt for a comfortable camera bag. The thing is that I have to change my bags from time to time because I get more gear and new items don’t fit into my current carrying cases or they can be damaged at the weddings.
Now I usually use a Lowepro Flipside bag but I had a very negative experience with my first camera bag when I was just starting out as a photographer. I decided to save money and bought a cheap model I saw in a store.
As it turned out, it was made of very low-quality leather (I bought it cause it looked sooo stylish) that couldn't withstand the weight of my camera and 2 lenses. During the ceremony, the bag tore apart, and my expensive camera fell down.
I have a standard set of equipment that I always use, along with additional gadgets that I occasionally need for shoots. Depending on the number of items, their weight, and the working conditions, I rotate between several models.
In general, I've selected camera bags that address most photographers' needs that I understand full well.
There are camera bags of different shapes and sizes, from basic camera cases to rugged backpacks designed for full-frame DSLR cameras with a wide range of lenses, flashes, and other useful equipment. Their prices range from $20 to $700.
I searched through discussions on Reddit's photography section, watched videos on YouTube, and read posts and reviews on different thematic forums.
Comfort. This is very important especially if you regularly use mirrorless cameras for work. They are my favorite cameras for wedding photoshoots because they are powerful yet compact. So, it is rather easy to carry them around.
A camera bag for on-the-spot weddings, particularly when they occur in other cities or countries, should be lightweight and discreet. You’d better avoid anything too bulky or cumbersome for extended shooting sessions. I'm searching for a bag that allows transporting my photography gadgets to any place without being a hindrance.
Size. I want a bag that is spacious for all my gear, yet cozy enough for comfort, and ideally compact to squeeze under an airplane seat. I absolutely don’t want to worry about my pricey camera equipment, as there are far too many cautionary tales of shattered gear in transit.
When it comes to the size, it's all about finding the perfect balance. The size that suits me best depends on the gear I bring along while traveling. Typically, I pack two mirrorless cameras and three lenses, not to mention a few smaller items.
Safety. Straps should be tough enough to deter any would-be thieves from cutting them off, and zippers should be inconspicuous to prevent pickpockets from pilfering your belongings when you're not vigilant. Besides, if you get a discreet camera bag, it is unlikely to attract unwanted attention from thieves and pickpockets.
Make sure your camera bag has plenty of padding and dividers to keep your gear safe and prevent your lenses from getting banged up. It's good to have them to stop your equipment from jostling around. However, dividers shouldn't take up too much room or make the bag too bulky. Otherwise, it will make traveling unbearable.
After you answer these questions, you can better understand your needs and thus, choose fitting gear.
There are several types of bags you can buy for your camera body and carry it carefully without worries.
Messenger (shoulder) bags. Using these bags, you get great access to the side of the case. You can hold it on one shoulder, and the entire load will fall on it. These bags are spacious and designed for 1 camera and several lenses with accessories.
Sling bags are a good choice if you need to carry a mirrorless or point-and-shoot camera. So, if you are looking for a combination of convenience, fast access to all compartments and handy design, a camera sling bag will satisfy all your needs.
Backpacks are recommended for traveling and hiking photographers who have a big gear kit that should be carried over long distances and kept safe. Camera backpacks may even hold a tablet and a laptop.
Roller bags (hard cases) are definitely the solution you need for destination photoshoots abroad when you need to transport your equipment via planes without damage. Roller bags are quite expensive because they’re usually made of durable polyester and nylon.
Holsters are good for beginners who don’t have many items to carry. Inserts can turn your personal backpack into a professional camera bag.
The Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III is my go-to camera bag, especially for regular wedding photoshoots. It's incredibly roomy and made of sturdy material that has held up well over the years of active use for transporting my gear.
Comfort. This bag is super easy to use. All I have to do is take it off, lay it down, and unzip the back panel for access! Plus, there is the grab handle for quick moving around. There are handy pockets in the front compartment, where I can keep small items like my smartphone, cables, notebook, and camera straps neatly organized. Therefore, I don't have to carry an extra bag for personal stuff.
I particularly like a removable padded interior top pocket for cords and chargers. Now I don’t need to waste time looking for accessories – they’re always at hand. Plus, the new side access makes swapping lenses easier, which really speeds up my work.
Size. Even though this bag can fit a lot of camera gear, it's still pretty compact. I can sling it over my shoulder all day long without feeling discomfort. It measures 12.2 x 8.66 x 18.11 inches and weighs 2.85 pounds, so it's easy for me to grab and go when I need to shoot in another city.
Security. The bag has really strong zippers, tough front bumpers, and PU coating that protects it from the weather influence. Inside, there are adjustable dividers so you can organize your camera gear however you want. There's also space for other stuff like a 10" tablet, 13" laptop, and even a travel tripod, so you can bring everything you need for your shoots.
Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III can hold at the same time:
To my mind, Think Tank Photo Airport Commuter is one of the best camera bags for women and men alike for several reasons. First, the handles are durable and thick, with extra padding for comfort. There are 2 ways to carry it, either upright or on its side, which comes in handy depending on the situation.
Besides, zippers are super tough, so you may not worry about losing something. What’s more, I love using it as a drone backpack, because it can keep my belongings absolutely secure. This is very important considering how expensive photography gear is.
What I admire about this camera bag most of all is that my wedding photography gear is separated from the main compartment. So, when I need to grab my phone, laptop, jumper, or wallet, I don't have to mess with the camera compartment. Besides, since it's a backpack, it's lightweight but still really durable.
Talking about all the different pockets and sections, 2 of them are actually secret - they're right under the main handle. You can stash your phone, keys, lens caps, or other tiny bits and bobs you need to grab quickly. The smallest pocket is perfect for keeping things like business cards, a valet parking ticket, or even a little cigar kit handy.
Last year I had an opportunity to get Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L, and it has become my favorite camera bag until this very day. It’s especially useful if I have an engagement photo session when there is no need to carry a great amount of equipment, or for my small everyday stuff.
There's a weatherproof zipper, dragging which, you can open the bag up wide in a snap. Inside, there are FlexFolddividers that you can adjust to organize your stuff however you like and keep it safe. This is super important for me because I switch cameras often.
According to Peak Design Company, the Everyday Sling is considered to be a low-key and easily accessible camera bag for carrying around, making it a good variant of a bag for women photographers. It is also an amazing bag for a mirrorless camera system. I wouldn’t recommend overloading your bag in any case, as it will be worse for you and you’ll get really tired.
The main design concept of this hard case is not to have lots of pockets or hidden compartments. Designers focused on other characteristics, namely, tough material and secure content protection. I believe that was a smart move.
Besides, this bag has wheels, so whether I'm at airports, hotels, out on location, or on paved streets, I don't have to haul around the weight of my full-frame camera and other items.
This resin case doesn't have any extra bags or compartments inside. You need to open it up to get to your stuff. This may seem inconvenient in some situations, but it is OK for me. When I'm going from one spot to the other or going in a transport, I don’t worry about my expensive equipment because I know everything inside is always fully protected.
The Billingham Hadley One was designed for those who need to take a laptop and a camera when going on a trip. What makes it the best camera bag is that it comes with a 13-inch padded compartment for a laptop and an easy-to-remove padded insert that allows you to create a secure compartment for your camera.
This bag is suitable for owners of DSLR cameras that come without battery grip. In addition, it can fit a mirrorless or rangefinder body unless it comes with a large lens. In some cases, you may be able to fit in a small additional lens as well.
This backpack is like two bags in one. I use the bottom part to keep my gadgets and tools, while the top part serves for storing my personal things. I don't usually take it to photo sessions, unless I need to carry extra stuff. Mostly, I use it for trips or my own creative endeavors.
The top part of the backpack is rather spacious. There I can store anything from a folded sweater to a snack bag, or even hard drives, big headphones, tablets, etc. It's a smart setup, because I can have all my non-camera gear in one place. In general, this camera bag can hold a lot of items.
Billingham 72 is a sling camera bag which became one of the smallest models in its lineup. It was created specifically for those who need to carry a rangefinder or a mirrorless camera with a prime lens. I take this bag with me when I go on photo walks, without a specific purpose and without the need to bring a lot of professional equipment. The model is just right for holding my compact camera.
This small camera bag is rigid and has durable, thick padding that securely protects camera equipment. It can be made of multi-layer canvas or FibreNyte nylon. Thanks to it, my shooting gear will be securely protected against elements. I can quickly fasten the lid, which ensures that my equipment will stay dry even if you get soaked.
ONA The Prince Street is a premium model for lovers of luxury and quality things like me. This case reliably protects my camera and lenses. This designer camera bag is available in 8 colors so that you may choose your ideal tone. Due to such an approach to styling, I think it can be a cool gift for photographers. A detachable upper grip handle and a streamlined back pocket offer additional convenience. Such a feature comes in handy when I need to take my small gadgets with me.
There are two pouches in front. I often use them for my smartphones, wallets and various documents. I want to highlight the excellent quality of the material, thanks to which the bag looks really good.
Pelican 1510 is great for travelers, who enjoy taking beautiful landscape photos and for avid wedding photographers with itchy feet like me. I am absolutely sure this bag protects my camera even if I’m not using it. It has a number of advantages that distinguish it from other models. Its reliable protection will surprise every photographer.
This camera bag might seem big and unwieldy, but that extra size gives more protection. Plus, it comes with wheels, which makes it super convenient to use. The model is equipped with additional handles (front and side).
In general, I can say that the Pelican 1510 is one of the coolest camera bags for long-term travel. When using it, you do not need to be afraid of moisture and dust, since the bag is made of waterproof material.
Back in the late 2000s, my trusty Domke F2 DSLR camera bag was just what I needed. It held my Nikon F4s and F3, plus a padded insert for four lenses. But now, that insert doesn't work because most of my lenses are bigger. In the old days, my lenses had filter sizes between 52mm and 67mm. Nowadays, they're mostly between 77mm and 82mm. The old bag still comes in handy, though—not for cameras, but for lighting gear or audio equipment.
It is so cool that the Domke F2 comes with a removable padded bottom and a hand-carrying strap. Besides, with the adjustable non-slip gripper strap, this bag sits comfortably on my shoulder, no matter whether it is an active day or a more relaxed one.
