Do you need expensive camera bags?

[@acegh0st]

The problem with these camera bags, like most photography equipment, is that the pricing on them is just ridiculous. You can go out and buy an expedition quality backcountry/mountaineering backpack that’s designed to go to Everest base camp 4 for less than a lot of these camera backpacks cost. Anything that will hold more that a body and a few lenses is gonna be $300 minimum, and 90% of those bags have literally 0 space for anything other than photography gear. Like a lot of them don’t even have space for a water bottle or a jacket. I feel like this is a market that a small company could come into and make some reasonably price, well designed stuff and clean up.

[@chosenideahandle]

Swiss Gear makes some very affordable camera bags that rival some of the best designed bags out there. Just a PSA. They're all under $100, and start at $30.

[@melvinch]

I blame it on Billingham. They started the trend of expensive camera bags.

[@Nettietwixt]

Yes, This annoys me so much. Why don't they accommodate anything else like water, food, wallet your jacket etc. You end up having to carry two bags.Most camera bags are so similar and so poorly thought through. It's like unless your are mountaineering or doing adventure sports they're not interesting in designing for it.

[@metgala6396]

@@chosenideahandle any you recommend from them?

[@chosenideahandle]

@@metgala6396 I wouldn’t even know what they have now, but they think of all the details for a photographer. You just figure out how big a bag you need. I have a sling from them that fits my smallest setup.

[@savnac]

i enjoy your satire, unconfident humor, innocent judginess.. glad i found your channel hahah

[@tenylegnincsevem]

whole photographytube: full of peak design v2 videos because the release was last week. james: worst photography bag i've ever bought.

[@cristibaluta]

For me is the best because i can take the camera out when it's still on my shoulder.

[@Django45]

@@cristibaluta and so can everybody else! :D

[@cristibaluta]

@@Django45 Not when you need to lay the bag on the floor to open it from the back.

[@thorstenbrand4803]

I have to agree, peak design everdayback is the worst bag i ever had. Its heavy, not well or organized, heavy linses bang around, its uncomfortable and ists much too expensive. But peakdesign makes great marketing and sents every youtube one for free. So youtube is full of praise.

[@Django45]

@@cristibaluta you did not understand my response, friend. I implied everybody else can get into YOUR BAG from the side whenever you are not vigilant and may take your stuff. I prefer back opening for safety reasons and I have a peak design camera clip on the strap for carrying my gear at the ready.

[@johnmacmun9934]

I've been looking for the perfect camera bag for 40+ years.... still looking.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

I hear you John!

[@Django45]

try checking out Peter McKinnon's bag. He designed it with a bag company. It is rather pricey but if I had spare cash it would be the bag to get!

[@TheProdijoe]

==> Atlas Athlete

[@marcwatt8649]

Boundary prima system is first bag l tried that did everything. Depends what you need really but i hated the peak design bag and saw a video about Boundary prima, never looked back. Flexible system , bit heavy but cheaper than peak design. My gear feels so much safer than it was in the P.D backpack.

[@prabodhadesilva4653]

try Peter McKinnon bag. lot of hype around that one.

[@anouk8553]

LOL, I just love the fact that you found your stuff back!!

[@fenlandwildlifeclips]

One of the things I like about your channel is the lack of forward planning. It’s reassuring to know I’m not the only one.

[@reframevideo]

Highly recommend the shoulder bag option if you do events/weddings. I have a main camera bag for all my gear but when I'm shooting an event or a wedding I use a small shoulder bag to load up the batteries and any additional lenses I may need without having to lug around the whole backpack.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

Oh, my tripod plate. I've been looking for this... Oh, my jeans! I've been looking for these... Oh, my dog! I've been ... wait, my dog? I don't even own a dog!

[@twotone3070]

Ha ha

[@B-RollBooks]

Alternate title: James entertains us while finding misplaced knickknacks in his old bags.

[@tobywinarto9479]

I just got a new camera bag yesterday and saw this was uploaded... Thank you for not de-valueing my purchase ❤️

[@TyDarapiza]

I feel like James is the kind of guy you'd wanna just have a pint with and just talk shop

[@Paul9]

I’ve stared just using an Osprey 36ltr with an insert and it’s miles comfier than any camera bag I’ve bought. I generally do a fair amount of hiking with my gear and the problem I have with camera bags is the huge expense, they are heavy and don’t have enough room for non photography gear unless you spend a fortune. Also you can use a dry bag inside a rucksack to keep your gear 100% dry, I had a bad experience with a camera bag leaking even with a rain cover. (It was torrential, like underpants wet torrential) but still. As camera bags go I still have a Mindshift ultralight which is a good balance but I just use the insert from it in my rucksack now. No idea how this comment got this long. 😆

[@michaels8597]

hail Osprey,great bags..

[@rosaliebischof1171]

Paul Downey I did the same thing using a floating frame backpack from Genesis. It’s heavenly!

[@johnmorrissey9516]

I have an Osprey Talon 11. Just throw camera in it and away i go. So comfortable. Great for mountainbiking/photography combo.

[@michaels8597]

and i dont even know why camera bags are so heavy,with so many KZbinrs who cry about 'weight'...I just like an Osprey or something similar..

[@MrAlgloom]

Which insert do you recommend?

[@henkpeter1755]

The "Pouch" is called "Insert" James. I use a ThinkTank Speed Changer V2.0 as insert in my all-day backpack when I need to take additional items like raincoat and lunch. On my daily round to walk the dog I carry a LowePro Slingshot 100AW which holds a GX8 or X-T2 camera with two lenses, spare battery and a small binoculars. The slingshot is ideal when you want to change lenses. Thanks for your informative vlogs.

[@TwentyThrill]

Thank you! I was looking for that pouch!

[@johnw65uk]

Ah No your wrong think tank speed changer is a pouch. They call it that themselves. All hail the pouch.

[@wayneashton]

I have a wardrobe full of backpacks, it's just so difficult to get rid because you shared so many great adventures with them!

[@rodmehta5356]

I bought a $14 padded lunchbox with plastic insert. Bit of bubble wrap, job done! Also, it doesn't shout "expensive equipment, steal me" 🙂 Tx, James

[@twotone3070]

Unless you are desperately hungry?

[@rodmehta5356]

Haha, I didn't think of THAT!

[@williamschultz8198]

The title should have been..."Do you need a dozen camera bags like me."

[@ilkoallexandroff]

Great video, I’ve just been reviewing all my camera bags for those few years, and was planning to talk about how much each of them lasted! Cheers from japan!

[@rosspowell1665]

I get to that stage with my beard and just find you have to push on through the itchy stage to get to a glorious full beard that moves gently in the breeze. Love the channel.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Cheers Ross, the struggle is real!

[@st1nk1n]

I started with padded box in regular rucksack, which is great for budget option and low key approach. Not great for accessing camera when other day trip stuff involved. Moved onto small shoulder bag for one camera which i think encouraged me to take camera on trips more. Also easier to access camera on walks and get more photos. Then moved to LowePro 250 or 350 which allows me to carry more lenses and day trip stuff. *** PARTY TRICK: *** You can take the bag off your shoulders and rotate to your front using only the waist belt/strap, open the back to get camera and leave bag hanging in front of you hands free whilst you potter about with lens caps etc. No need to put bag on muddy ground at all. Zip back up and rotate and back on shoulders. Genious. Best bag I ever owned.

[@FabrizioZago]

At the beginning I have started with a small camera bag, then a bigger camera bag. Then gear have increased and so I've bought a backpack, then now I have a bigger backpack and hopefully that's it :-) At least for some time... Interesting channel, I'll follow.

[@mikemitchell3889]

James, I have the same green Mindshift bag and It's a very good product. I have used it for about two years and witnessed no failures. Gi-Giddy Up, Mike

[@shutterbug1076]

Wow! What a coincidence!!!I just retired my 10 year old Lowepro Flipside 400AW yesterday. I absolutely loved that bag! It has been with me everyday for it's entire life. It was getting tired and worn out so finally decided that I needed to replace it. I found a black Friday deal at B&H on the new Flipside 400AW II, so I bought it. It's such a great upgrade. 15 inch laptop and 10 inch tablet storage. The rear\main flap opens up all the way much easier, the tripod mounts are much better and it has a nice removeable internal pouch. Somehow it's still the same size.

[@RobShootPhotos]

You got a good point about a backpack doesn't make it obvious what your carrying. My 15 year old large Canon bag might get replaced but as a personal bag on a plane it does carry a lot of gear and other personal items. My main camera bag is my cargo pants and/or rain jacket. It's amazing how small M43 is even comparison to the old 4/3rd system. I usually carry 17mm, 45mm, 40-150mm kit lens with two batteries, body cap, a lens pen and a backup SD card. It covers me for landscapes, portrait and street photography. My E-M10 has a wrist strap to make it smaller in my pocket. Love M43.

[@johnw65uk]

Just spent the last 3 days trying to find a backpack for a micro four thirds and 3 lenses max which I could also fit my socks and a small karaoke machine without any luck. They all look either over engineered (expensive) , huge, like boxes, or just generally not very cool looking. So I’ve taken your idea, use my trusty 20 quid travel backpack and buy a pouch to go inside for the camera bits. Thank you for the tips.

[@74bish]

Went for the pouch + normal backpack solution, no regrets so far. The messenger type bags are not for me, they tend to get too uncomfortable after carrying them for some time. So yeah, definitely a backpack fan.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Me too - I love the messenger bag set up for about 20 minutes!

[@MrShaville]

Where to find the pouches ?

[@74bish]

@@MrShaville A lot of camera bag companies sell separate pouches, some retailers that sell camera gear have them or just search for them in online shops.

[@marcof.9578]

Really enjoyed your video! Personally when I travel I use a Lowepro backpack for all my camera gear and my laptop. When I get to my destination I like to get around as lite as possible so I just use a normal backpack with a camera pouch/baggy for the camera! Another thing that no one talks about when you're a photographer is foot wear! It may seem strange but it's one of those items that are in fact very important! No matter where I go for my landscape photography I like to wear the ASICS Fuji Trabuco Pro. Great shoes for the outdoor environment even though they were made for trail and mountain running! One of the special features I like in them, besides comfort and water resistant, is the plate in the sole that protects your feet from sharp rocks or stones! What footwear do you choose when you go out into the mountains or more rough terrains? All the best!

[@dammitelijah]

Whenever I need talking out of buying gear I don’t need I watch your videos. Thank you.

[@JozefRaiche]

Just found your channel. I love how you just got right into the video with your intro, you had me interested in less than 10 second, great job!

[@doughuras5407]

Always informative and entertaining!

[@neildaintree]

Yessss! Always find a random tripod plate 🤣 always when you aren't looking for it... 😭

[@YoSpiff]

Favorite camera bag right now is an Allen Sports fishing sling bag with a padded insert added. Holds a mirrorless with 14-150 lens, two other lenses (wideangle and 17mm). Pockets for all the other little accessories and geegaws. Has a water bottle holder and tripod straps (probably meant for a fishing rod). Has a ring near the top so I can hook a small bag for purchases or other things. Can access like any camera sling bag on the go. What I love about this is when I travel for work, the insert comes out to travel in my backback on the plane, while the slingbag packs nearly flat in my checked luggage.

[@cristibaluta]

When i hike I use a 5L sling from PD. It fits inside my 45L backpack and when hiking i can take it out and keep it in front for quick access.

[@JustTony72]

The peak design is the second best camera backpack over every bought because the straps are too thin. Sadly I haven't found as bag that works well with a mirrorless APS-C system yet. Ohhhh the ever elusive camera bag where are thee.

[@fabienb]

I travel a lot and not always in the safest of places so I normally go for unassuming bags that don't scream photo equipment. I have an Osprey bag that I purchased at an outdoors shop. If I use a camera bag, it's the Shimoda, because it's made for hikers and photographers alike and is very comfortable. I was excited with the Peak Design one when I bought it, but it's so heavy even when empty and the laptop sleeve so useless that I more and more left that bag in the closet. If you're out for a cheap option, the AmazonBasics bag is actually a pretty good all-rounder. Cheers James.

[@duxy2515]

love the humor, love the review and I love the fact that you just got a new subscriber

[@michaelmeehan9556]

I use a small(ish) Manfrotto backpack. It manages to hold my camera body (Sony Alpha @6000. A couple of lenses, my GoPro, extra batteries and chargers for all, plus a bunch of other bits and bobs. What's really great about it though James is that it has a pouch for my 15 inch laptop and at least snacks if not a lunch too. The size is super easy to deal with and it's comfortable to wear all day. I still consider myself fairly new to photography and videography but feel a backpack like the one I use is pretty indispensable. If there were a wish item, it would be that they would add a pocket to hold a decent water bottle on one side at least. Thanks for this video James... and a belated Congratulations on your marriage! Looking forward to your next video!!

[@DeputatKaktus]

Yes. Maybe not the biggest and fanciest one there ist but IMO you DO need one. Even if it is just to keep dust away. Also: First.

[@ceaabe]

For my everyday photography in my city and surroundings, when I just need a tiny camera and 2-3 lenses, I use a leather shoulder bag. It's not heavy and has more style. When I do a long trip at nature where I want to have everything with me, I use the big camera bag with all filters and tripod and so on. But I don't do youtube videos like you. ;-)

[@nicolahguy]

Love it!

[@nigelcooke1064]

F-Stop Loka Ultra Light. After lots of dedicated camera bags, this is the best purchase I've made - light, loads of space for kit and other stuff, not too big (air hand luggage), internal frame for support. Deliberated for ages due to price, but never regretted the purchase

[@noenken]

Great video, one more thing: When you get your first camera bag, get it used. Most likely it's a fraction of the retail price and usually those bags are as good as new. And the best thing about used bags is you won't care about it getting dirty and worn out. I think I have a dozen different bags now and I only bought one of those new. ... Guess which one I regret buying. ... yeah.

[@danicosanchez1667]

What's the brand/name of the camera pouch mentioned around 2:30?

[@Rocodil]

I use a normal backpack. I have two sizes, one for a day trip and and a larger one. In those camera back packs, where do you put your down jacket when it is getting warm? Usually the hiking back packs come with separate departments. I simply use individual pouches for my lenses. I carefully consider what I need for the day and that is what I bring: one camera two lenses if possible. I leave a separate camera bag at home for cables, dongles, cleaning gear and the camera plus the smaller prime lenses. The lenses are all in Tamrac pouches with their own color and easy to recognise.

[@kkaramath7104]

Hi James, I'm a little surprised that you didn't get the WANDRD PRVKE, I've had that backpack going on a year of travel and abuse and it's still going strong.

[@flol3266]

The green one is dope!

[@MarkoKoskenoja]

That was a great video about the issues trying to figure out what you need to carry your camera and other stuff. I used a 6 litre sling bag for years but I just bought a Mindshift Photocross 10 sling back that allows me to carry my new G9 with 2 lenses, an insulated piece, food and a water bottle. It's perfect for my daily hikes or backcountry ski trips with my dogs.

[@liutony4872]

It’s a camera “insert “. However, most camera insert has no strap, so I bought a Sony lcs-sl10 and throw it inside a backpack. It can fit a (M43) 12-32mm, 45-150mm, 25mm and a small body like OMD or GX85/GX9. For a 20 liter backpack I can fit a tripod, the Sony bag with some space to spare.

[@socratesvela8285]

If you are traveling to unpopulated areas, I would say a camera bag can be useful. In a populated area, camera bag just screams thousands of dollars and you become a target. I just use a diaper bag or a $18 backpack to carry my stuff. As for that krumpler, I don't think it is available anymore. I bought one and looked to get a second one, but they had discontinued it.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Ahh no - good bag that, I shall take more care of it then :)

[@Meritumas]

I don't know why but your videos remind me of the series "An Idiot Abroad" ;-) Great sense of humor. I like it! Subscribed!

[@giselesmith7795]

My fujifilm xt2 and 18-55mm lens tucks away nicely in my kavu handbag with room for other do-dads for a day out and about. When I am hiking, I am in agreement with your suggestion of a small loose insert for the camera in my backpack. If I ever get more than 3 lenses, I might have to break down and get a dedicated bag...

[@PolicePubliCallBox]

I got a Tenba insert, and I love it. Most camera bags are not comfortable (especially for hiking or traveling), and so I just put it in my Osprey day hiking bag and it's great. Also, when I'm flying I can just throw it in my suitcase.

[@shkvorrel9660]

Buy a MOLLE vest. Carry your gear in amo pouches.

[@randydietmeyer5883]

All my bags have Molle webbing on them. :)

[@VerrocchioStudio]

Actually a really cool idea!

[@Annie261.]

Just ordered a molle single sling bag from eBay $21.

[@chriskearney4058]

Spot on, I’ve just bought a 45 litre Solognac Molle bag with clam shell opening. Also bought a molle pouch with it. Total cost £69. Karrimor Sabre or Thor look like they could easily accommodate camera equipment and hiking gear.

[@randydietmeyer5883]

I have a Mindshift bag myself -and never use it. It simply has no storage for all the other stuff I carry with me on a hike, like water, water filter, fire starter, tinder, basic first aid, bushcraft knives, and other EDC items. I tend to use a bag by either Maxpedition or Condor, which also have plenty of space for my photo gear.

[@GutS7u6]

I don't do mountains and wilderness. The nearest I get to that sort of stuff is some fair size country parks (with cafes and shelters and stuff). I do wander around London sometimes, so for that I use a non descript drawstring bag thing purely to hold my gear while on the train, if I stop in an eatery or if I need to use 'facilities' (it would be weird going in with a camera slung over my shoulder). It can comfortably fit my Canon 80D with the 18-135 fitted, a 50mm prime a gorillapod (usually leave that at home though) and a small bottle of water (well wrapped in a plastic bag). If I am taking a bit more gear or do end up going a bit more 'off piste' I use my lowepro flipside which is nice and comfy, back opening and as I am only shooting for pleasure, holds my meagre (but enough for me) kit. I do find (having also received a small lowepro shoulder bag as a freebie with my last camera purchase) that I do use my camera bags more for stoarage. They sit quite nicely behind my sofa with all my gear shared between them. They protect the gear well enough from my cats/daughter and keep the stuff clean and moulted cat fur free.

[@hauke3644]

In the cover picture of this video I think I saw a part of a Lowepro ProTactic backpack - which I have and recommend. It has two camera compartments and the lower one offers very quick access from the side to a camera with a tele lens, without the need to set the backpack down. Other parts are accessed from top or back and will not fall out when the side access is used. But that's of course for a more complete equipment (except drone, video lights...)

[@pabloechaniz8623]

My first request for a camera bag was having extra space for my things as I mainly use it mountainbiking or going outdoors I got one with 50% - 50% distribution between my things and camera gear. The lower compartment is for the gear and it also doubles as a shoulder bag because the pouch is removable. I´ve had it for two years and right now fits perfectly all my MFT gear (2 zooms, 1 fixed, 1 fisheye and the g80). I´m hoping to upgrade my zooms to the 2.8 versions the only thing that i fear is if i decide for the oly 40-150 or pana-leica 50-200 the bag will be a bit crammed though with the lumix 35-100 wouldn´t have any space problem.

[@adanjauregui2788]

Ive been looking for one like this, mind sharing what bag this is?

[@pabloechaniz8623]

@@adanjauregui2788 it is the Dörr combi pack 3 in 1 backpack

[@alwaysyouramanda]

I might be getting a decent camera for Christmas so this came just in time!

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Awesome :)

[@duesno]

Well Done!!! Most enjoyable video. Thank you!

[@RobV1978]

Use beard oil and conditioner also, don't wash it every day. It'll help with the itch. And everyone should have some type of padded bag, even if it's just to protect your gear while traveling.

[@LaFarishal]

I got a backpack where half the space is reserved for a daypack. I love it. I can carry everything easily and then pack my lunch and some other stuff I need.

[@lalalaso333]

Thank for the advice, saving my money!

[@steveforde7475]

I started off with a sling shot style for my Canon 7D many years ago, big mistake nice idea but so uncomfortable fully loaded. I picked up a Retrospective 5 (that's the small one you should have had for your video) for my GX8. Ideal for a walk around town type of activity, too small for anything else. I swapped my 7D for G9 and opted for a Tenba BYOB 10. It's an insert with adjustable partitions for normal rucksacks. I prefer normal (Lowe Alpine) rucksacks as they are made for people unlike camera bags which a made for cameras, as much as I love my Lumix gear I'm more important!

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

I hear you Steve :)

[@graemerohrlach1740]

Steve, I'm with you on the Tenba BYOB 10. I can get my EM5 Mk2, 3 pro zooms and a macro lens in it and still have plenty of room for sundry photographic items and trekking gear in a 45 litre One Planet backpack. Plenty of provision as well for water (essential in Oz) and for carrying a tripod if required. So much more comfortable than anything else I've used. A Peak Design Capture Clip completes the arrangement and means that my camera is accessible without having to always rummage around in my backpack.

[@Django45]

it would be nice if you included some links for the bags you were talking about. I might revisit this in the future because some of the bags look rather interesting and spending time again to watch and then get the names right would be a bother. Thanks!

[@caerphoto]

I'm so glad the kind of photography I do only needs 1 or 2 small lenses. My ThinkTank Retrospective 7 is plenty big enough for that plus some other bits (phone, keys, wallet, packet of crisps, etc.), and if I want to go even smaller and lighter, my Crumpler Proper Roady 4500.

[@philippheiermann93]

Front vs Backloaders is really about balancing the pros and cons. I agree with your dirt argument, however frontloaders allow for more advanced carrying systems that let air flow between the back and the rucksack. And honestly, either it is muddy, then you wear a rainjacket anyway that can get cleaned easily or it is warm and dry and dirt does not really matter that much. At least that is my observation to far. Still pretty happy with my Jack Wolfskin Photo Pro, i think the carrying system is taken from Deuter which really shows after long hikes. Hitting the limit though how much i can add to my gear if i carry my filters as well.

[@JohnsJunk]

I'm still using an old Camelbak Rim Runner 22. ~3L of water and 19L of stowage. Fits 2 full size DSLRs with an ultra wide and a tele mounted and a waterproof. It is a pain to get at gear sometimes but as it normally only has one body in it as the other is in my hand it's workable.

[@viera996multi]

If you're a beginner, I think you should get everything that would make you more likely to get out and make photos. If you'd get out more if you had a camera bag, then sure, get a cera bag. Just don't become a gear hoarder and spend your money on thing you don't need or use.

[@Dudeitsbrian]

Hey James. Quick tip about beards. Your first one will be itchy, but you get past it and it stops bothering you.

[@bartcm7528]

2:30 8:35 Wonder what other random stuff got lost in the dark abyss of camera bags? Great vid, bags can be a huge waste of money if you buy them on a whim. I have a shoulder bag I barely use because its too big and uncomfortable for street (also my back hates it. very much). Now i just chuck my gear into a backpack, even without camera cube, cause it fits my style better and makes me want to shoot more P.S. Selling a big shoulder bag. Please, I need to get rid of it :D

[@PePdAwG6844]

so i use the ranger sling bag from hexbrand. its a great little sling i can throw my camera with a lens and one other lens in. battery charger couple extra batteries and some sd cards. a camera bag isnt needed it really just depends how much gear youre lugging around with you

[@grabtharandhishammer8251]

as a side note for your beard, its the skin drying out that makes it itchy. If you're not already using some buy a quality beard oil and use it daily. It keeps the skin moisturised and stops the itching. Keep at it. Took my 50 years to grow a decent beard after many failed attempts :)

[@RightTurnsAndLeftovers]

WTH! Where's the kite test?!?!? I was so looking forward to some wind velocity dynamics when I saw the title to this video... kind of a let down. You really had a good niche going there James Do you find any issues with most camera bags aren't made with m4/3 smaller bodies and lenses in mind? Great point about opening at the back, I'd heard of it as being better for theft protection.

[@WhiteWulfe]

I was also surprised/saddened to not see the waterproofing test. That was a classic.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Haha, thanks for sticking around so long! No problems for m43 gear as all of the bags I've used have adjustable dividers, which helps getting a drone and extra stuff in too :)

[@MrBooojangles]

Hi James. I'm sure you did a video about bags once but you showed us you use large hard cases with foam inside for your GoPro cameras. What was the make and model you use, as I want one big enough for two GoPro's and all the batteries and accessories all in one case. Most of them on Amazon and eBay are too small and a large aluminium case I saw, some are saying it's crap quality. Hope it was you that did the video I'm thinking of. 😁

[@mucklark6943]

A backpack tip for when you get your mountain bike - the Mindshift Trail. I'm using an Olympus m43 kit and this works perfectly. Not so good for a DSLR though.

[@HIWalkerPhoto]

I just picked up the Mindshift pack and absolutely love it because there is enough room for my 10 essentials for a day hike. I needed to upgrade when I started videos and I started out with a sling pack that was made for picnics - it had all the cubbies I needed until I needed to go bigger.

[@Tom-eq6vo]

Like the size of the Lowepro Protactic but the price seemed a little steep against their other models. I do love the quality you get with Lowepro though, so finally settled with the Tahoe 150 at a third of the price of the Protactic. It’s fulfilling my needs at the moment, travelling with 3 lenses, 2 GoPros, a flash gun and spare batteries, memory cards etc. Reckon I could squeeze in a further lens which I think would cover the majority of shots I normally go for

[@justoalejandrogonzalez5097]

I remember when you use the peak design one as a kite. It is in my top 3 videos in youtube. Definitely.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Thank you - how time flies! :)

[@judahhays189]

The beard looks good dude... keep it

[@twotone3070]

He'll be in trouble if he gets too close to some of the Velcro on those bags though.

[@WhiteWulfe]

I still want that Backlight pack myself, I just keep spending money on other things that are more important to me. I probably should get a nicer pack at some point though, that Amazon sling bag is rather annoying to try and fish gear out of. As for the beard - giving it a minute or two with the same shampoo/conditioner you use on your hair can help with the itching somewhat, and beard oil/balm can help too. Biggest issue is making it through those few days to a week where it's itchy. This is why I have a goatee that's over two fists long (can't be bothered to find a tape measure), and the cheeks get shaved regularly.

[@mattfisher8255]

just been watching a bunch of your other videos, absolutely love them. Your comment about your green bag and your Orange jacket making you look like a traffic light, the first thing that came to mind was a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.

[@antonydavid2953]

Great advice. I fully agree on the Peak : great backpack, awful camera bag. I have never been able to arrange it to carry my camera and lenses efficiently.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

I'm still trying! 😂

[@MSmith-Photography]

I started off with a small camera bag, just big enough for the camera and an extra lens and a small cleaning kit. I've now got a large camera bag that i store almost all of my gear.

[@jonlouis2582]

Good advice all around. I don't like backpacks at all, but i wouldn't know what to do with a drone if one bit me on the nose.

[@franklawler7055]

Hi James, I tend to use a Rucksack as I don't actually like to advertise myself as a Photographer. Not that doing much of my shooting is by a pond that is near a Probation Office has anything to do with it.

[@RealRaynedance]

Started out with a Lowepro Adventura 170 for my old Canon SX50 HS back in 2014, realized I could barely fit my D600 with a 50mm f/1.8 on it in the bag when I upgraded in 2017, then got a Ruggard Commando Pro 45 that I've been using ever since. I still can't fit all of my lenses in it, but I can fit what I actually need on a given day. I'm also stuck in this weird scenario where I want to be able to hold fairly large telephoto lenses, but I want a top-loading bag for quick access. So I either need a big brick of a shoulder bag and have to take the dividers out and put it in sideways, or I need an absurd messenger bag. Which also has a side pocket for a drink bottle. And is water resistant. Essentially I need a Think Tank Photo Vision 15, but bigger.

[@chryseass.5143]

I bought the Lowepro Fastpack 150 for a recent trip as my carry on and it's great. It can hold a Sony a7iii with a 28-75 lens attached plus about three more lenses and there is a separate roomy compartment for other things like a jacket, etc. There is also a bigger model, the 250. It is an extremely comfortable backpack to wear fully loaded all day even when carrying both a small laptop and a tablet. It is a very well thought out piece of kit.

[@pixelpeter3883]

I've been using an old Lowepro Mini Trekker backpack for years and years when travelling; not too big and can carry a lot of equipment if need be. It came out way before 'laptops' and doesn't even have a dedicated space for that, but a smaller laptop still fits in one of the large compartments on the lid. I also use one of these (coton) reporter vests with multiple pockets to stash my papers, memory cards, point-and-shoot, mobile, batteries and 2 or 3 lenses when I'm in 'shooting mode'. Carrying gear in pockets near your body will spread the load much better imo. This setup doesn't really work in foul weather though, as the vest I use isn't waterproof. In that case an additional (rain)coat is needed :-) For my day-to-day photography business I carry everything I think I will need in a ThinkTank Retrospective 30, and according to what needs to be photographed, I'll take only with me in my reporter-vest what I will directly need for this particular assigment while leaving the rest in the bag in the trunk of my car. I've stopped lugging around heavy shoulderbags for every single shoot years ago: your back won't tolerate it at some point.

[@kiwipics]

A small canvas bag with a insert system from ebay is the ideal starter bag (and as an unobtrusive daily bag) , and then just don't go overboard on size on your first real bag (you don't need carry your whole kit) as I did with a billingham 445 way back in 1986. The 445 bag swallowed up my gear, but the size and weight did my back in. I now have seven bags (technically one isn't) ... 1x Billingham 445. 1x Crumpler (small CSC size). 1x Lowepro mini treker. 1x Large Pelli lookalike (from Maplin close down sale). 1x canvas £10 day bag with Ebay insert (most used bag) 2x Manfrotto large sling bags (for storage) FREE (1x comp win, and 1x magazine subscription freebie). PS: The Billingham has had years of abuse and hard use, but it's still in use and looks like new .... That's why it cost me a few weeks wages back in 1986.

[@davidposaas7350]

Very amusing video :)..... Got me thinking ... maybe I'll just use the back pack I got.

[@BSHokke]

Thanks for the video. Very helpful for a beginner photographer. But I’m not a beginner beard grower. Having a long beard for 9 years now. When growing a beard there is active when it’s starts to itch. It will stop itching at a certain length. Until then use beards oil. Also go to a barber. Good luck 👊🏻

[@nathangreen7312]

Love the Mindshift Gear bags. I've got the Rotational 180 Mindshift bag

[@toniereeves1677]

I use a tubu 6128 camera backpack, cost less than $80 US, tons of room, and i believe it to be built well. I use it backpacking in Glacier national park all the time and as an overnight bag.

[@steveschnetzler5471]

For bike trips, I use a small sling bag. Just stop, swing bag to the front, open, pull out camera, maybe change the len, take photos, then reverse process. Super quick if you are traveling with an impatient wife or friend. You can also swing it around to cary like a purse in the front if you are in areas with lots of pickpockets.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Great tip Steve :) Cheers!

[@willparsons32]

I think it depends on what you shoot. If you live out in a cabin in the middle of nowhere and your genre is wildlife photography, I'd say a camera bag would be less of an option than if you were living in a matropolus shooting portraits in a studio. Travelling with your gear; definitely a necessity!

[@michaelm1]

James: Chances are you are buying gear to use that gear. Me [quickly closes my closet with 20+ lenses]: Huh?

[@tomwebb3081]

I've been using camera bags for 15 years. I started with a 'small bag', that I wasted my money on (my kit expanded rapidly). Trying to find a bag that'll carry my gear, and a coat/food/water *AND* that fits my back so it's comfortable on my hips and shoulders is damn near impossible (I'm 6'8). I think I'm going to have to get one of those f-stop bags just because they're longer than anything else.

[@magnusaskeland6964]

If you haven't already, have a look at the Shimoda packs. I'm not as tall as you, but used to carrying different backpacks all year for outdoor activities. From 55 to 105L By far the most comfortable camera bag I've come across is the old model of the Shimoda 60L. Seems very durable so far (trips in the cold arctic and in desert USA). Can fit two camera bodies, a 150-600mm, a 24-70 or 16-35, laptop, shell layers and down jacket and lunch+water. Tripods can easily be attached on both sides.

[@ineedagoodusername3164]

I second this. I've heard a lot of people complain that f-stop bags get quite uncomfortable when they're really loaded. Also worth checking out depending on where you live are Atlas packs, which you can order practically custom fitted to your figure.

[@JamesPopsysPhoto]

Hope you find one Tom! :)

[@dawidwsmole]

I use a headphone pouch for now, but gonna get the bag+backpack combo soon.

[@moke1310]

Camera bag is a key part for me - allows me to carry lenses, filters, laptop on holidays and trips. However, like cars there is no perfect bag that will do everything you want - it is a best compromise solution.

[@ianseager9084]

I 100% hear and agree with what you are saying about back loaders. However, my £35 Amazon Basic front loader bag does the job quite nicely ta. Two bodies, 4 lenses including a big boy, extension tubes and two speedlights. Tripod and water bottle on the outside. Waterproofs and sarnies in the laptop pocket. Sorted...I just don't put it down in mud :)

[@bert9569]

Literally ordered a 'Crumpler Pouch' ... (no it's not a Carry On character) after recently watching your My camera bag history... post, not had the chance to try it. As for the beard, shape it and remove most it from your neck, if nothing else will reduce the itcharea < technical name for beard irritation, by 50%, terrific video as always fella.