What I carry in my wildlife photography Bag - The GEAR and SOLUTION that Works

[@KevinNordstrom]

Check out this video more more great tips and encouragment kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKvCioJtpJmebKs

[@ElBoyoElectronico]

My kit has actually been shrinking the more I did small photo hikes (~5-8 miles) and I cary way less stuff now: R5 with RF100-500 attached, extra battery, wallet & keys, Patagonia nano puff, iPhone & AirPods, plus maybe a small water bottle and a granola bar. For trips of that length I really don’t need anything else. All that easily fits into my Lowepro ProTactic BP AWII 450.

[@KevinNordstrom]

sounds like a great kit.

[@mrhallphotography]

Interesting Video. I use a Think Tank Backlight 26L currently, but I am looking for something different. so this was a timely video. Current kit is: Canon R6mk2, RF24-105 f4 L, RF166 f2.6, RF 100 f2.8 Macro, RF 70-200 F4, and the Sigma EF 150-600 C with 1.4 TC. Tripod is the Leofoto LS 364C with leveling base and a host of different head units. not all fits in the backpack which can weight up to 30 lbs with hiking equipment. At 61, the back doesn't handle the weight like it did when I was in my 20's or 30's!! i carry a Grayl water filter which doubles as the water bottle. I also use a snipers veil in my kit along with some cheap amazon camo netting for water fowl during the spring migration. I usually get weird looks from hikers in the early mornings with all of my equipment. More that once, had the police called because someone thought I was trying to set up a squatter camp in "her" woods!! LOL

[@KevinNordstrom]

Lol sounds like an adventure. I like your set up. And I totally feel ya. I'm only 40, but I sure don't feel 20 anymore lol. So I try to keep my load right at 20 lbs. Happy shooting 📸

[@timeaston2776]

It took me a long time to figure out that the best camera backpack was the regular, well balanced, built to carry weight backpack for hikers from the sporting goods store, with a couple of inserts. Good waist belt, efficient load lifters, and a frame built for hiking. Heaven on earth. But the expensive Mindshift and Tenba bags I have work great for storing gear, which makes them worth having.

[@OldJack1960]

Hi Kevin, I'm a birdwatcher/photographer of decidedly average competence, and I couldn't agree more with enjoying the experience for its own sake. At 63, with aching joints and recent bypass surgery, I don't walk more than around 6 miles absolute max but can still make it last all day (especially if there's a hide or two and plenty of benches!) As for gear, mirrorless is a blessing. I carry an R7 or R6 with either the RF100-400 or one of my old EF L lenses, slung over the shoulder. I'd like the RF100-500 but the GBP price is a bit steep, and as the wife says, Do I really need one? To which the answer, of course, is: No, but I'm a bloke! I also have the f11 RF 600 and 800 lenses, although I've so far only used them a couple of times and to me they seem better suited to the full-frame. Instead of a bag, I prefer a dedicated photography jacket - or vest if the weather is warm. Mine are of a now defunct British brand - the nearest US equivalent is probably the Langley - and there's more than enough pockets for binos, raincover, spare batteries etc, and I've even fitted in the 600mm for a Caspian gull that promptly flew off when I got there.... I just find this method of carrying more comfortable nowadays, especially if I'm also carrying a 'scope. All the best and thanks for the vids, looking forward to working my way through them!

[@KevinNordstrom]

I like the jacket or vest idea

[@michaelsurratt9593]

I use the same 24, 36 and 65. You can get the G-raphy Camera Bag insert. The Ospreys carry so much better than any camera bag, I have ever used.

[@KevinNordstrom]

I'll have to check out the insert and you are 💯 on they are much better than any traditional camera bag. Especially if you do alot of hiking.

[@michaelsurratt9593]

@@KevinNordstrom I do a lot of Long Hikes and the traditional camera bags just don't cut it. The Ospreys are great. I use the 24 for long mountain bike rides. 34 for day hikes and the Rook 65 for long hikes. The G-raphy isn't as good as yours but, it works well enough. Have a Great one!

[@KevinNordstrom]

You as well Michael 📸

[@pizzabellies4852]

That was awesome to see those Osprey And Bald Eagles. I am still trying to figure out the best pack and gear. Im only out for about 2.5-3 hours at a time max. Currently using a Canon m6 mk ii and a Tamron 100-400 and a 60mm Macro lens. So far so good, i cam get a variety of different shots.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Sounds like a dialed in kit man. Get out there and run that shutter! :)

[@estelareynolds3586]

Kevin, have you checked out Walborn Reservoir in Allaince. The Eagles have returned to the location, but new nest. Totally Enjoy your videos!

[@KevinNordstrom]

Thank you , no I have not. I'll have to check it out. I do most of my photography along the marshes and refuges along the Lakeshore near port clinton as it's only a 30 minute drive from my home. I love seeing the eagles make a comeback along the great lakes. 📸 🦅

[@jerryrichards8172]

I'm a backpacker and photographer. I like how year multi purpose and safty oriented.

[@terrylstarks]

Kevin and community, I’m an “Atlas” guy and love it!!!! I’ll have to admit that I haven’t tried all of the packs out there that compete with the “Adventure”, it’s just great for me!!!! Now are there things I’d like to add, subtract or change!!!! Hell yes!!!!! But that is with anything!!! Great video!!!!!

[@KevinNordstrom]

Atlas do make great packs. As do FStop and the rest. . I had the Atlas Adventure pack at one point, fantastic quality, top of line attention to detail, but it was just too much pack for me, to large, to bulky, heavy, and was very uncomfortable both on the hip, and shoulder chest straps for any short hike under 8 miles for me it just doesn't fit the bill, mainly because of their ergonomics and lack of any ventilation is what ultimately turned me off and swayed me back to Osprey...but it most definitely is a fantastic quality pack that will last and last and take a beating out there. If I was doing more long term camping out of one bag for like a week or longer, I'd pick another one up without question. I'm super glad you found a pack that fits your needs, Terry. Atlas really are solid quality bags 👍

[@filbilly]

Man, love this video! Kinda ironic you saw an Osprey and you're wearing an Osprey backpack, ha! I have one as well and never thought about an insert, so I looked online snd just ordered one so I can fit a Sony 200-600 and some other gear in it. Funny thing is I was shopping around for a camera backpack, but like you, love my Osprey! Also good to see what you carry. The small solar panel is something I want to look into. I have a Jackery 500 with a solar panel, but after watching this video l checked and saw that my panel has a USB-C and USB-A charge port, so I'm good to go if I decide to bring just the panel on outings. Thanks for reinforcing the importance of the experience and not the gear. It's so easy to get caught up in the latest and greatest when we can keep things simple, and appreciate why we're out there in the first place.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Amen John. Yeah alot of good camera bags out there but if you're hiking, I have yet to find one that competes well with an Osprey bag.

[@counterfit5]

I thought for sure he was doing a bit for the video 😅

[@peterkumble4093]

Enjoyed your vid and review. I have that Osprey pack but with the cube you showing, the Creater Box XL, I don't see how you can fit any camera or lens into the pack as well, unless I was missing something. I was anticipating this as I want to retrofit my Osprey as well.

[@KevinNordstrom]

I just keep my camera out at all times. I usually like it that way and prefer it as I hate taking it out when the action is going. However when I do pack it, the camera fits in the cube when detached and the 100-500 fits as well when zoomed in and lens hood on backwards. The osprey bags are well made and I love them. The rare time I pack them in the cube I usually have the camera, the 100-500, extra batteries and my first aid kit. That's it for in the cube. Most days when I just carry the camera and lens while hiking, that's when I have everything in the cube and bag as shown.

[@neildbarker]

Congratulations on spotting the Osprey! Love your advice to 'make it about the experience." As for gear, I'm a lightweight (Nikon P900) and splitting my time between wildlife photography, birding, and just enjoying a nice hike in the woods. Thanks for sharing - great video and advice.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Thank you Neil. Happy shooting brother 📸

[@weekendwanderer5514]

A very well thought out and efficient way to carry your gear. Thanks for making this!

[@KevinNordstrom]

💯

[@joesjourney9986]

Loving your channel and this video especially. I'm using a 5.11 Rush 24 for day trips and a Rush 72 for longer trips. I keep the 10Cs with me. I love that Buck fixed blade, I often carry a Buck Campadre that was a Buck of the Month club offering with micarta handles and 3v steel. I have a Buck 110 in s30v i carry on my belt with my Springfield xds. For camera i use Panasonic GH6 with a leica 100-400 lens but since its micro four thirds it has a 2x crop factor. I have a teleconvertor if i need extra reach. 3 batteries, and a 20,000 mAh anker battery bank with a 25 watt solar panel.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Heck yea Joe. Nice rig. You cant go wrong with a buck knife. Nice side piece as well. I carry a Sig 365 in the summer and a glock in the winter. Keeep running that shutter.

[@JeffreyJohnsonC]

I'm on team hiking backpack too. I'm not sure why you have the camera insert though since you don't carry your camera in there. The stuff you pulled out didn't appear to need cushioning. Otherwise, good kit. I shoot Olympus, so I can actually fit the camera, 100-400mm, and 12-100mm lens in a smaller bag than the one you have there 🙂

[@KevinNordstrom]

It's really to keep everything organized and not have multiple separate pouches just scattered in the bag. I'm crazy and ADHD like that. 😂 Also it's an extra added protection from major downpours I guess for the batteries and cards etc. I still don't trust anything that says weatherproof LMAO

[@foto-spective]

Starting to look a bit like Florida there. 😂 I've been looking to have a very similar setup. Unfortunately at 6'4" with a lower back problem it seems impossible to find a backpack long enough. If the bottom of the bag doesn't rest on my butt instead of back, then I can't use it. If I ever find one I'll definitely steal some of your setup ideas. Thanks for sharing. 👍

[@KevinNordstrom]

Lol, vastly different in the winter. 😉 and yeah you actually want most of the weight on your hips and not your shoulders or back. I'm short at 5 ft6 so it's easier to find a pack for my needs. Things are always changing especially dependant on the seasons will dictate what and how much I carry. Good luck brother and happy shooting 📸

[@krimke881]

That is the first photographer carrying a backpack I've seen, not for any photography gear. Just carrying a lot of bags. That hit different indeed. Worth a thought.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Works for me ☺️Never had any camera bag that was as comfortable as a Osprey hiking bag and to be honest, I really only need one camera, one lens, and a few batteries as far as camera gear.

[@JohnnyArts2883]

Interesting

[@JeffandLeslie]

Kevin, thanks for sharing.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Thanks Jeff 📸

[@prestongrindle]

Great video… I’m definitely going to check out that solar panel. Need power source for charging. I was looking at battery banks that have solar built in. Also just suggestion. I know you don’t get into too many crazy situations like I put myself into… 😂, but I hook my inreach on my belt loop so as to have easy access Incase for some reason I can’t get access to my bag or somehow it comes off rolling down a mountain. I just suggest placing it in your cargo pocket that way you always have easy access in most cases. But like I said just a suggestion. Stay safe out there and keep them coming.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Those ones with the solar ones built in are mostly garbage I've found. The bank itself works fine but the solar panel on top are garbage. Even the name brand ones will take nearly 30 hours or longer to charge the bank in the sun. It's best to go with a separate panel with USB for your devices. That's what I've found anyway.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Great suggestion too Preston with the GPS. I'll have to rig something up. The cargo pocket idea seems like a go to for now, or i may get another mollie pouch to place it on the pack itself.

[@j.kimmer1509]

Loved this content. thank you.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Thanks, J

[@adude394]

Great stuff! I'm a hobbyist, always striving to learn more and improve. I carry my gear in a large MindShift backpack, which is plenty big enough to carry my 20D, 7D, and 1DX Mark III, a bunch of lenses, and all sorts of other random gear. It's not light when I have everything in it, but that's OK.

[@rev_dude]

Man I just wish Osprey would make a camera bag, or collaborate with another brand to make one.. Their harnesses are easily my favorite, but I prefer the back opening clamshell and organization of many camera bags. It would be a dream to have both without needing an extra insert.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Yeah I totally agree. Osprey would make a killing from the outdoor photography community. Their harness system is the best I've seen on the market in terms of reliability and comfort when hiking. It's a shame I have to use a camera insert, but for me it's the best solution for my needs. I also do prefer the back opening especially when the pack is on the ground. I don't have to mess with an insert, but I've had those bags from LowPro and Atlas. And while I did enjoy the Atlas athlete and the Atlas adventure... harness system is nowhere near the breathability, reliability, and comfort of Osprey. Every other pack I've owned I feel shortly after a hike. I shit you not, with the Osprey packs, I can do 10 miles, be tired, but my back still doesn't hurt from the hike. Osprey have their flaws, but for hikers, they are hard to beat. Like you, I just wish they came out with a nature photography line.

[@plutonium5156]

Check out their snowboarding bags. They open from the back panel.

[@KevinNordstrom]

@plutonium5156 I just checked out their Kamber series from your recommendation. They look solid for sure, I may pick one up. Thank you. I wasn't aware of the back opening ski line.

[@ursthomann3463]

Hi, Kevin. I am a big fan of Osprey backpacks for the same reasons as you like them. In an ideal world someone would design a photo backpack around Osprey‘s carrying frame. I actually have some design ideas there, but just not the means and time to manufacture a prototype. What I really don‘t understand in your case is why you bother with a camera insert at all. Most of the stuff that you put in there does not really need any additional protection anyway. Cheers, Urs

[@KevinNordstrom]

Because there are times in heavy down pours when I tare down my camera and lens and put them in the insert. There's room when I take out my rain jacket and wear it. I also have OCD lol I need everything in a compartment and not just loose in a bag.

[@Travelleramit]

Vanguard endeavor 1600 is the best birding backpack in 2023 😊

[@Todd_Lovejoy]

Great video 🙌

[@KevinNordstrom]

Glad you liked it!

[@JRodPhotoArt]

Good stuff Kevin!!

[@KevinNordstrom]

Thanks jrod

[@kitchenarbabvlog]

Good 👍 Job 👏 Have A Nice Day Keep It Up Friend Amazing Big Like 👍 69 👋