Luminous Landscape Forum
Equipment & Techniques => Cameras, Lenses and Shooting gear => Topic started by: felix5616 on March 23, 2018, 02:41:16 pm
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Looking for suggestions for a photo backpack for a Fuji GFX 50S, 32-64mm lens, 23mm lens and possibly a 110mm lens. I would aslo like to carry a CF tripod and Arca Swiss D 4 head
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Sticking in town, or heading out of town? Photo backpack looking or incognito? Waterproof level required?
Room for extra stuff (computer/iPad/??) or just minimalist camera function.
I love sling bags, as I can swap lenses without setting the bag down.
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I use a Thinktank Streetwalker for a D850 and three Zeiss lenses. Very nice bag and they have larger models which you might or might not need.
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As Joe says, it really depends a lot on needs other than just the equipment being carried.
I just picked up a Mindshift First Light 30l - and it's fantastic. Meets standard carry-on for air travel, took, at that size (a key consideration for me). I've moved to that from a very good LowePro ProTactic 450 AW of a similar size. The Mindshift is just better thought out and better segregated internally. It doesn't feature quick access pockets like the LowePro but I have more useable space from the same size.
I carry an A7rii with grip, Sony 24-70 f/2.8 GM, Sony 70-200 f/2.8 GM with a 1.4 teleconverter, a Sigma 105 f/2.8 Macro EX, a Sony 50 f/1.4, Sony F60 flash, Sony clip-on external LCD, Surface Book, batteries, memory cards in a Pelican mini-case, chargers, cables, bush hat, gloves, torch, phone, and all the stuff quite easily (actually, I change that around, but when I'm travelling I pack it very full and add to it other basic personal stuff). All works. Tripod externally. Comfortable, durable.
You're going to get a zillion opinions on this. Once you have a few in mind from reading or finding online etc., best bet is to mention them and see if anyone has any feedback on them.
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I recommended this pack before I have an older version than the current offering you might check it out?
allan@atlaspacks.com
Allan is quite the upfront guy sent me two packs FedEx then spent an hour on the phone rearranging my Hasselblad system in the pack until it fit and more importantly was extremely comfortable. You can carry two tripods (although I only carry one) it has a built in water system attachment.
for the price nothing compares
aluminum frame and great hip belt with pockets
I have the H6 body, 100mm, 28mm, 1.7x, HTS 1.5, 210mm, hoods, 150x170mm filter case, nisi 150mm filter holder, RRS pano, loupe, light meter, 3 batteries, battery charger, flashlight, head lamp, 95mm CPL, and etc. with lots of room to spare. the pack is heavy loaded but I also use a waist belt system which holds my filter box and two lenses, this setup makes it easy to change lenses standing on rocks in the ocean.
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for trekking locally in the woods or to the shore, one day trips, waterproof would be nice but an available cover would be fine.
would like to carry some water(1 liter) lite snacks and maybe a shell jacket and lite gloves
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I own the MindShift Backlight 26L- light, roomy, I like the rear panel access (great to not get dirty back from the traditional bag access). There's also a larger one, but I would think the 26L would do the job.
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I use two that have been working really well for me. The Dakine . https://www.dakine.com/en-us/bags/backpacks/photography-backpacks/sequence-33l-backpack/ . and Tamrac https://www.tamrac.com/collections/backpacks/products/anvil-27 . and as you may know I travel a lot and to some out of the normal areas. Both these packs have done me well. This article shows how the Dakine is packed. https://luminous-landscape.com/off-to-the-palouse/ . This one shows it being used in Antarctica https://luminous-landscape.com/off-south-georgia-antarctica/. And this one shows me packing up the TAmrac . https://luminous-landscape.com/were-off-to-greenland/.
I have just about every pack you can think of yet these are my go-to bags more than not.
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You're not going to fool anyone by carrying a tripod, it may have the opposite effect. I have a Timbuk2 Messenger bag and Snoop Insert that works quite well. I can fit a 1Dx w/short lens attached, two additional lenses and extra batteries.
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One can never have enough camera bags.
It all depends on what needs to be accomplished - and the gear to be carried is just about the least important parameter in choosing the bag.
Does it need to fit in airline carry-on? Is quick accessibility or security more important? What about stealth - does it have to not look like it contains cameras? Do you need to be able to hide the tripod inside the bag? What else do you need to carry at the same time? Does it need to be weather-resistant? How far do you expect to be walking with it?
On varied trips, where I would expect to shoot in all sorts of different settings, I often end up bringing three or four camera bags, choosing the one most appropriate for the task at hand and leaving the rest back at the hotel/tent/base camp.
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A quick recommendation for the Fstop Sukha, and F stop in general.
Comfortable, well made, suitable for purpose.
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Whatever you choose, if possible look at it in a store. Many bags look and sound great until you pick them up. Check the EMPTY WEIGHT! While many brands have improved their weight over the recent past, eg Lowepro, be aware that for overseas travel, some airlines eg Air New Zealand, limit you to a 7kg carry on. Sounds like a lot until you get started with lenses and accessories. An important question is whether you want significant room for other "stuff" besides camera gear, eg food, clothing, depending where you're going.
I've been using a Mindshift 26L with my Sony A7RIII, three zooms, 16-35GM, 24-70GM, 70-200G, and a couple of Nikon PC-E's with an adapter. I measures and if I give up the PC-E's, I can carry a 100-400GM. It has a decent suspension, for me. Then there's batteries, cards, cleaning stuff, framing card, various cables, a filters. Here in the great Pacific Northwest it rains, a lot. It's common to have to put the pack down on wet ground, mud, or wet sand. It's nice to put the front down so that when you pick it up, the mud/sand is not all over your back. It's also good security since the opening to the gear is against your back. A pickpocket will get only my sandwich and coat, not my camera. The 26L has a good tripod carrying system as well. I use a Gitzo 3530 and Arca D4.
For walking around in town, I use a Thinktank Retrospective. It would carry a GFX and the 32-64 easily.
I had heard great things about F-Stop bags, but also heard horrible things about their inability to deliver despite taking your money. I had one bad personal experience with them a couple of years ago. I hope they've solved their problems because the concept seems sound.
Best of luck to you on your quest. Remember... everyone has too many bags and everyone loves the one they're currently using ;D
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A quick recommendation for the Fstop Sukha, and F stop in general.
Comfortable, well made, suitable for purpose.
Another recommendation for f-stop - I will also mention the empty weight, which is good, and also the fact that when you take out the camera inserts you have a very big simple backpack with a large lid for accessibility - perfect for grocery shopping :-)
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Love my fstop bag.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Don't want to hijack the thread, but: I'm also looking for a backpack and get slightly mad about that, slowly. Good to see some recommendations here. I find it especially hard to find a backpack that doubles as a (real) daypack and still offers some accessibility for the gear. Right now I even end up using a normal backpack for personal stuff and a additional shoulder back (I tend to change lens almost every shot ... my bad habit) but that pretty much the opposite of comfortable. I know there are those mindshifts with the rotational "belly-pack". I tried but at first experience I just don't get it using it ... do you get used to that?! Maybe a real user of those, here?
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Don't want to hijack the thread, but: I'm also looking for a backpack and get slightly mad about that, slowly. Good to see some recommendations here. I find it especially hard to find a backpack that doubles as a (real) daypack and still offers some accessibility for the gear. Right now I even end up using a normal backpack for personal stuff and a additional shoulder back (I tend to change lens almost every shot ... my bad habit) but that pretty much the opposite of comfortable. I know there are those mindshifts with the rotational "belly-pack". I tried but at first experience I just don't get it using it ... do you get used to that?! Maybe a real user of those, here?
I have one, the biggest. I use it less as it is a little heavier and I don't go that much on photography only trips.
It is quite practical though as I took out the top organizer and I use that for clothing, food, etc and there is enough space for even a overnight trip.
The rotating part is not the most effective space utilization but it is convenient, I think it would work the best combined with a peak design shoulder quick release where you keep the camera readily available and have the rotation component for lenses.
Overall it's quite comfortable to carry.
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Don't want to hijack the thread, but: I'm also looking for a backpack and get slightly mad about that, slowly. Good to see some recommendations here. I find it especially hard to find a backpack that doubles as a (real) daypack and still offers some accessibility for the gear.
I put an f-stop small pro ICU in this one:
Mammut Trion Pro (https://us.mammut.com/p/2510-02222-3374/trion-pro/)
Opens top and back like an F-stop but also a fully functional climbing/ski pack.
Dave
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For women, fine under-seat-stowing (for regional flights with smaller than usual on-board luggage capacity): the REI Trail 25L women-specific pack, has U-zipper, will take an 11.0 x 11.0 x 5.0" f-stop "medium" insert, has daisy-chain for attaching other stuff. This carried well. Must pull out insert slightly to access fully.
A men's REI Trail 25L is also available, only difference is shape and size of suspension.
More later.
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One can never have enough camera bags.
I'm a bag of the month quitter! There is such a thing as enough/too many, I'm trying my damnedest to get down to 2 or 3. This is where your local camera store really is a gem - take your stuff in and see what fits. See if it matches your ergonomics and holds things where you want. Oh, and buy it from them while you're there.
A GFX plus a few lenses is pretty easy. It's when you're up to 2 bodies, plus 6 lenses, flashes, etc that things get complicated - or you have odd shaped bodies like the XF, H or 645. Things like height, body mass and structure all play in to what fits well.
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I'm a bag of the month quitter! There is such a thing as enough/too many, I'm trying my damnedest to get down to 2 or 3. This is where your local camera store really is a gem - take your stuff in and see what fits. See if it matches your ergonomics and holds things where you want. Oh, and buy it from them while you're there.
A GFX plus a few lenses is pretty easy. It's when you're up to 2 bodies, plus 6 lenses, flashes, etc that things get complicated - or you have odd shaped bodies like the XF, H or 645. Things like height, body mass and structure all play in to what fits well.
There are so many different, and often conflicting, requirements for different tasks that it's impossible to fulfil them with just 2-3 bags.
Let's see:
- Airline transport - it needs to protect all your gear, fit within the size limits and weigh as little as possible. Small regional airlines in various parts of the world often have even more stringent carry-on requirements. When you're that close to the weight limit (or over it) and the bag's going to be sitting in the overhead compartment anyway, ergonomics don't matter. F-stop inserts are great for this, since they're removable. May consist of a combination of bags and jackets.
- Wildlife shooting in Africa - needs to be a backpack (since you'll be carrying it a lot), hold large supertele lenses and a full-size monopod/tripod. There probably won't be room for much else in the bag.
- Hiking - needs to hold food, spare clothing, camping gear, etc. in addition to the camera gear. Also needs rain protection. Access to gear may be slow.
- Kayaking - needs to be waterproof (not just water-resistant) when closed. I just put the whole thing inside a roll-top, waterproof bag, but that means zero access to the gear on the fly.
- Travel through risky areas - needs to not look like a camera bag. Tripods and other shooting equipment need to be carried inside the bag. Entrance to the camera compartment should be against your back. Mutually-incompatible with 'quick access'.
- Casual shooting around town, in safer areas - a shoulder bag allows for far more rapid access than a backpack, so that you don't have to put it down every time you want to shoot, better manoeuvrability on public transport, in crowded areas, narrow laneways, etc., and a far lower likelihood of being stopped from entering stores, shopping centres, etc. than when wearing a large backpack. Doesn't carry as much gear as a backpack (at least not comfortably)
Multiple configurations for each situation may be needed, depending on exactly what you need to carry (tripods/monopods, tripod heads, long telephotos, UWAs, etc.).
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For 1 day outings/trekking I use a Lowepro flipside Trekker 350:
https://www.lowepro.com/flipside
The photo compartment takes two Sony A7 plus two lenses, and assorted bits and bobs. The top compartment carries food, drinks, and other miscellanea.
When I want to carry more gear, plus 13' laptop, I use:
https://www.thinktankphoto.com/collections/urban-approach-backpacks/products/urban-approach-15
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For 1 day outings/trekking I use a Lowepro flipside Trekker 350:
https://www.lowepro.com/flipside
The photo compartment takes two Sony A7 plus two lenses, and assorted bits and bobs. The top compartment carries food, drinks, and other miscellanea.
When I want to carry more gear, plus 13' laptop, I use:
https://www.thinktankphoto.com/collections/urban-approach-backpacks/products/urban-approach-15
With the sole exception of F-stop gear for certain uses, I've given up on commercially-made camera backpacks. Far too often, the 'camera' bit is the only consideration, with the 'backpack' bit given barely any thought. They mostly have very poor load transfer, insufficient frame rigidity (if they have a frame at all) and poor back ventilation, making them less than ideal for serious carrying. To top it off, most of them are made to look as if they contain $10k worth of camera gear, with or without a tripod strapped to the outside.
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With the sole exception of F-stop gear for certain uses, I've given up on commercially-made camera backpacks. Far too often, the 'camera' bit is the only consideration, with the 'backpack' bit given barely any thought. They mostly have very poor load transfer, insufficient frame rigidity (if they have a frame at all) and poor back ventilation, making them less than ideal for serious carrying. To top it off, most of them are made to look as if they contain $10k worth of camera gear, with or without a tripod strapped to the outside.
Hear hear
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A local photographer has given an enthusiastic endorsement of the Mystery Ranch Scree 30L pack, with Y shaped front zipper giving full access to inserts. I recently bought the women's equivalent (slightly different shoulder harness) MR Cairn 30L, it holds an f-stop large ICU easily. It seems very comfortable over short distances, I have yet to take it out fully loaded (20#) for a long (8+ miles) hike. The packs have adjustable torso length, load lifters, good belt, and some daisy chains (useful for tripod).
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There are so many different, and often conflicting, requirements for different tasks that it's impossible to fulfill them with just 2-3 bags.
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Multiple configurations for each situation may be needed, depending on exactly what you need to carry (tripods/monopods, tripod heads, long telephotos, UWAs, etc.).
Most photographers can get down to 2-3, and yes, some of the situations you lay out do require even more specialized gear thus more bags.
But at the same time, you missed my point about photographers and the search for the 'One' bag. There is a reason for the 'bag of the month' comment - lots of photographers buy bags without a specific purpose or without verifying all their 'current' gear will fit as needed. Gear changes (dslr/mirrorless/MF), activity changes, even conditions changing will change up the bag used.
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There is no ONE bag. Small shoulder bag, small backpack, large backpack, a belt - and - pouches system - these all have different uses.
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With the sole exception of F-stop gear for certain uses, I've given up on commercially-made camera backpacks. Far too often, the 'camera' bit is the only consideration, with the 'backpack' bit given barely any thought. They mostly have very poor load transfer, insufficient frame rigidity (if they have a frame at all) and poor back ventilation, making them less than ideal for serious carrying. To top it off, most of them are made to look as if they contain $10k worth of camera gear, with or without a tripod strapped to the outside.
The OP was asking about backpacks for 1 day outings. I mentioned the two that I use and that I think are appropriate for such occasions. That was all.
All the negative points that you mention do not apply, IMO, to the models I made reference to.
As for F-Stop, I am not familiar with them, as they are not commercialized in Portugal.
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Until now I have been using the old big Kata waist-pack w94 together with a mountain backpack (37L+). After my cardiac catastrophe I have decided to downsize to the F-Stop Ajna.
https://www.nikonclub.it/forum/uploads/ori/201405/p18nour2jj1mq813e21dlpta9rhg6.jpg
http://www1.nital.it/uploads/ori/201007/gallery_4c30b6e41e05b_DSC0030hundejahre.jpg
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Paulo, most photo-specific backpacks are "one size fits MOST", and most photo-specific backpacks are used to cart gear for short periods of time (10-20 minutes from car) to the photo shoot location, so for many people, harness fit is irrelevant. If you aren't part of the "MOST", the fully loaded photo specific pack can be excruciating for all-day carriage on the trail, as opposed to setting the pack down every few minutes. I can attest to the utility of the stretchy mesh "trampoline" style back panels for use in summer. I have yet to find a photo pack that is comfortable for all day carriage of 15 pound load - the women's specific f-stop model comes close, but due to my specific measurements (very short torso length, busty), the shoulder suspension is not ideal.
Yes, hikers/campers/paddlers/etc also are subject to G.A.S. ;)
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Far too often, the 'camera' bit is the only consideration, with the 'backpack' bit given barely any thought. They mostly have very poor load transfer, insufficient frame rigidity (if they have a frame at all) and poor back ventilation, making them less than ideal for serious carrying.
Hear, hear!
I can scrape by with a Lowpro Photosport 300 for day walks - A7R2 with a zoom lens, one extra lens (two at a push if you're not too concerned about stacking say a 28mm and 55mm in one lens slot- it does have a tensioning strap which seems to hold them fairly steady). I can also get basic mountain gear in that (first aid kit, safety shelter, head-torch, down jacket, couple of litres of water, compass, etc.) and ice axe/walking pole and a lightweight tripod strapped to the outside.
It's the only one I've found that isn't just plain hideous for a full day's walk in the mountains. The photo gear rucksacks are all too short, for me, so the belt never seems to properly get the weight onto the hips.
I've not found anything bigger in the way of photo-specific rucksacks that work for me. I end up trying to cram a soft camera bag into a 65L Lowe Alpine Atlas "proper" walking rucksack for anything which also requires a tent or more clothing.
I don't understand why they don't make hybrids with more photo gear capacity. Or a custom-made insert to turn (say) the bottom compartment of their own 65 L walking sack into a proper padded camera compartment.
I guess the market is small compared with the "good for 30 minutes from the car" market. But given that Lowe for example do crampon bags especially for rucksack exteriors you'd have thought a camera compartment would be worth a punt.
Cheers, Hywel Phillips
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Paulo, most photo-specific backpacks are "one size fits MOST", and most photo-specific backpacks are used to cart gear for short periods of time (10-20 minutes from car) to the photo shoot location, so for many people, harness fit is irrelevant. If you aren't part of the "MOST", the fully loaded photo specific pack can be excruciating for all-day carriage on the trail, as opposed to setting the pack down every few minutes. I can attest to the utility of the stretchy mesh "trampoline" style back panels for use in summer. I have yet to find a photo pack that is comfortable for all day carriage of 15 pound load - the women's specific f-stop model comes close, but due to my specific measurements (very short torso length, busty), the shoulder suspension is not ideal.
Yes, hikers/campers/paddlers/etc also are subject to G.A.S. ;)
I know that, I have been using photo backpacks since for ever:) Given the OP requirements (using for 1 day outings), I think there are several good options today. Including the one I mentioned, the Lowepro Flipside Trekker series.
I have taken it on my back in several treks, including going up Pico mountain in the Azores. Very comfortable, for me.
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Let's look at what the OP is carrying:
GFX 50S - 920g including EVF, single battery and memory card
23/4 lens - 945g excluding hood and caps
32-64/4 lens - 975g excluding hood and caps
110/2 lens - 1010g excluding hood and caps
That's 3850g so far, and that's just body and lenses.
D4 - 977g
He didn't mention which tripod, but let's assume the RRS TVC-34L (that, or a similar Gitzo, would be fairly typical for this kind of high-end, non-ultralight setup utilising a D4 head) - 2146g (assuming no levelling base or other tripod accessories).
Now it's up to 6973g.
Add in another 1000g for typical accessories (spare batteries, charger, cards, quick release plates, cleaning gear, remote release, CPL, solid ND filter). With a full filter system and L-plates, this could easily reach 1500g.
Add in another 2000g for reasonable non-photo gear for a day (snacks, water, spare/bad weather clothing, tissues/personal hygiene).
Then you have the weight of the bag itself - probably 1.5-2.5kg, regardless of whether the bag is good or crummy.
You're dealing with 11.5-12.5kg on your back. Although not particularly heavy (hikers will carry a lot more), it's not insubstantial either. You can get away without a proper pack if you're just carrying it 20-30 minutes before putting it down to shoot from a static position, vehicle or other place where you're no longer carrying it around, but you wouldn't want to be carrying it on your back all day without a well-designed, load-distributing pack.
Neither the Flipside Trekker 350 nor the Think Tank Urban Approach 15 has a proper frame (the Lowepro has a frame, but not a rigid one that can bear weight; the Thinktank doesn't seem to have one at all). The Think Tank doesn't even have a waist belt, so couldn't distribute the load even if it did have a frame. Fine for dragging gear short distances, but your shoulders would be killing you if you were carrying 11-12kg around all day.
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I've a developing bag habit... trying to ignore it for much the same reasons as listed above.
On a side note, I'm considering my next from about the Tenba Cineluxe range, aimed at filmmakers. I really like the 'doctor bag' opening and the flexible aluminum inserts I have to say.
https://www.tenba.com/uk/collections/cineluxe.aspx
Fan of Tenba generally, their Cooper Slim is a great walkabout bag if you have mirrorless kit.
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f-stop packs are actually very well designed, should their frame and harness fit you well. One of the f-stop packs is 52L, which certainly can contain both camera gear and simple camping kit for a weekend.
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Ah, f-stop look really interesting, thank you everyone. Just found that they do have distribution in the UK, and they're producing exactly what I was after (walking rucksack with a range of dedicated camera inserts).
Sometimes it is worth moaning on this forum, as people provide you with the answer! ;) ;) ;)
Cheers, Hywel
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f-stop packs are actually very well designed, should their frame and harness fit you well. One of the f-stop packs is 52L, which certainly can contain both camera gear and simple camping kit for a weekend.
'Well-designed' compared to the poor standards of camera packs, anyway.
Compared to real outdoor packs from Osprey, North Face, Mammut et al., they're actually rather mediocre, particularly with regards to back ventilation and the load transfer characteristics of the waist belt and lumbar pad.
Still, unless you're prepared to spend well over a thousand dollars on a custom pack, it's the best you're going to get. (Apart from maybe putting a F-stop insert inside a regular hiking pack or daypack, with all the equipment access problem that entails - possibly not a problem for landscape photography, but problematic if you can't spend a few minutes unpacking and repacking your gear every time you want to take a photo).
As for custom packs, they may be worth it, expensive as they are. After all, you might drop 1600USD on a Cube, which you might use for 80-90% of your shots. You might spend a similar amount on a f/1.4 portrait lens, which doesn't even get brought along except when you're specifically there to shoot people. But a pack which you're carrying all day, every time you go shooting? I mean, we spend $200 or more on a single filter...
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Interesting topic and some great relies.....
My own take on this is to reject purpose made photo packs for landscape photography out on the hills as they don't really work for me and are very expensive. In addition they scream what they contain when you need to come down into towns and villages. Also, use here in the Uk tends to be wet, windy and muddy!
For these reasons my solution has, for some years now, been the ex British Army 80ltr 'bergan' rucksack designed by Berghaus with army special forces input during the years after the Falklands War in the early/mid 1980's. The bag is excellent in use being very comfortable, well designed and adaptable for purpose. A 24inch tripod is easily carried inside the centre of the bag in a cardboard tube, spare clothing in plastic bags go at the bottom, food packs and flask of tea next and then the photo gear in snap top plastic boxes ready for use near the top...it takes seconds to unclip the lid, pull tripod and unsnap box with main camera..... The bag has alluminium frame, wide and adaptable shoulder belts and a very comfortable waist belt which keeps much of the weight on the hips. There are side belts to compress the bag into manageable shape/size. The plastic boxes are lined with foam in layers cut from a yoga mat. The 'lid' pocket always contains a waterproof poncho (actually German mil kit!) which can be pulled in seconds during sudden wet squalls on the hills and covers everything including rucksack while walking. there is a small back pocket in which I keep a black plastic sack to place quickly on wet ground before putting down the bag. The bag is in faded and sunbleached DPM pattern and very unobtrusive, nondesscript and non 'flashy'...never attracts any comment in villages or country inns etc. In short; it works very well and is inexpensive and highly adaptable.
On two occaisions this rucksack has saved my gear from deluge and possible destruction...once when I slid for some distance down a hill path on slate chippings (Wales!)
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You are right, shadowblade, about f-stop not keeping up with newer trends in hiking packs such as adjustable torso height, trampoline back panels, better designed suspensions and belts for women's bodies, better integration of pack with belt. Still, IF the f/stop packs fit you, they are logically arranged. I will point out one issue that many of the day-pack size hiking packs (20-35L) with ventilated "trampoline" style back panels may present. Many or most of these seem to have a bend in the interior pack volume to fit the pack better and bring the weight closer to the back for easier carrying and stability. Your rectangular large insert may or may not fit in the smaller "trampoline" back type packs. On the plus side, some people have been able to slip their pre-chilled water reservoir between the pack back fabric and the trampoline panel. (Not for me! I like to eyeball the fluid level and make sure that I meet hourly hydration target volumes. For this, drinking from a hand held bottle works better than sipping from reservoir tube.)
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I did a week long climb last summer and I just used my Osprey pack with my gear all in neoprene wraps and an insert inside it. To have a camera handy I added the Black Rapid strap that you can add to any pack. I had to downsize considerably from what I would normally shoot with or risk being too loaded down.
My system worked reasonably well but it wasn't perfect. For near home I have Timbuk2 Snoop for MF and a Lowepro Flipside 250 for smaller gear that has a bad tripod carry design. It works for short distances but is pretty primitively designed compared to nice hiking packs. It would be terrible to go any distance with it and there is no room for non-camera stuff.
I'm always interested in these threads but skeptical The One is really out there and affordable.
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F-stop does have a daisy chained and D-ringed tripod bag good for even the largest tripods. You figure out the rigging to your pack. I would really like to have a smaller and lighter bag for my small (19" folded) hiking tripod, maybe I will see if one of the custom hammock or ultralight pack makers will make a skinny stuff sack-like version with daisy chains - expensive, but cheaper than me buying a sewing machine to do it. Too complicated to attach daisy chains to existing stuff sack, much easier to do the daisy chain attachment before sewing the panels into a tube.
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I just looked at the latest LowePro bags and wow, they have a lot of choices now and some look pretty good. The newer Flipside looks a lot better than the old one I have. I don't like the center tripod carry system and would prefer a side carry.
The ProSport and Highline models look particularly good for how I like to shoot. Do any of you have experience with either of those?
Hard to resist those prices too. If the bags are any good, of course.
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I've given up on photography specific packs as they are too over designed for protection which adds significant weight to the empty pack, their harness systems are always an after thought and they don't come in enough configurations to properly fit different body styles. Not to mention they cost an arm and a leg.
I'd look at the Osprey packs like the Kamber series and get yourself an ICU from e-bay that fits nicely to hold your gear. I have been using Ospray packs for years and my back and shoulders thank me.
Previously I've used Lowepro, F-stop and other packs and they all collect dust now.
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...I just used my ... pack with my gear all in neoprene wraps...
This works for me, with a lowepro lens case on a hipbelt.
It's hard to take photo backpacks seriously when they don't list the volume of the non-camera compartments. Will the Whistler hold rain gear, fleece and lunch? Who knows.
Great thread, good suggestions.
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I just looked at the latest LowePro bags and wow, they have a lot of choices now and some look pretty good. The newer Flipside looks a lot better than the old one I have. I don't like the center tripod carry system and would prefer a side carry.
The ProSport and Highline models look particularly good for how I like to shoot. Do any of you have experience with either of those?
Hard to resist those prices too. If the bags are any good, of course.
They only look decent if you only searched for 'camera backpacks' rather than 'backpacks which can fit a camera'.
As a general rule, Lowepro camera bags are overbuilt and overweight. They provide plenty of protection from minor bumps (probably too much, given that you will likely have clothing stuffed into the bag, as well as water bottles, hiking poles and tripods attached to the outside, all of which also provide protection from bumps) but scarcely any more protection from falls and heavy impacts (e.g. falling off a pack mule or out the back of a car) than lighter bags. And it's not the minor bumps which destroy your gear.
Lowepro harnesses are better than most dedicated camera bags (they also make outdoor gear, although their reputation there is so-so), but, by the standards of outdoor gear, their load transfer is poor. Unless you tighten the belt so much that it practically becomes a waist-bag, most of the weight will be on your shoulders.
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I've given up on photography specific packs as they are too over designed for protection which adds significant weight to the empty pack, their harness systems are always an after thought and they don't come in enough configurations to properly fit different body styles. Not to mention they cost an arm and a leg.
I'd look at the Osprey packs like the Kamber series and get yourself an ICU from e-bay that fits nicely to hold your gear. I have been using Ospray packs for years and my back and shoulders thank me.
Previously I've used Lowepro, F-stop and other packs and they all collect dust now.
The problem with these packs is access. Without a rear panel, you need to take the whole camera unit out of the bag in order to use it. This is time-consuming and cumbersome at the best of times, making it difficult to stop for a quick shot before moving on (by 'quick' I still mean using tripods, filters, etc. - not something you'd carry on a strap) and almost impossible to shoot in the city or other busy places. And, in many places, there simply isn't the space or the flat ground to take the camera unit out of the bag and put it on the ground.
Without going for a custom-made solution, what about an external frame pack? Just get the metal or composite frame, with harness and belt attached, then attach whatever bags you want to it. You can even attach normal camera bags (not backpacks) to it, as well as other bags or pouches for clothing, food, camping gear, etc. External frame packs are versatile like that. After all, if they can carry a deer carcass, they can handle a few cameras. Not much of a solution around town, though.
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This works for me, with a lowepro lens case on a hipbelt.
It's hard to take photo backpacks seriously when they don't list the volume of the non-camera compartments. Will the Whistler hold rain gear, fleece and lunch? Who knows.
Great thread, good suggestions.
For whatever it's worth the Mindshift Professional that I have has the volumes and dimensions listed for each compartment: https://www.mindshiftgear.com/products/rotation180-professional
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During my research I came across "Evoc"-Brand Backbacks. But there's little independent information available, and although it seems like it's a german brand I never saw such a backback in any shop. They claim (as all) they are capable and trekking grade. Prices are rather high, too. But, as I said, not really a lot can be found. Anyone ever heard of those?
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During my research I came across "Evoc"-Brand Backbacks. But there's little independent information available, and although it seems like it's a german brand I never saw such a backback in any shop. They claim (as all) they are capable and trekking grade. Prices are rather high, too. But, as I said, not really a lot can be found. Anyone ever heard of those?
Pretty much every manufacturer makes similar claims. I've never seen one that actually stands up to hard use. Support-wise, many are little better than putting a pair of shoulder straps on a padded bag and wearing it like a backpack. F-stop backpacks come the closest by far. But, by the standards of actual hiking, climbing or military packs, they're pretty mediocre.
I would stop searching for 'camera backpacks' and, instead, start looking at normal backpacks in the right size range, with a view to how well they can camera gear, either as-is or with minimal modifications. You'll end up with a much better pack. If you need quick and easy access, it will be more difficult, but, if you're at the point of needing an all-in-one solution - good load distribution and support for carrying heavy weights all day (or for multiple days) as well as quick access to gear - you're probably looking at custom gear anyway.
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Hello all. I've been following this thread with great interest as I am looking for something similar.
As it seems like people think that the f-stop bags are average compared to other trekking backpacks, are there any suggestions for rear access backpacks that are considered better than the f-stop series in terms of comfort/load balancing etc?
Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk
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My F-Stop Ajna arrived some days ago with a medium slope ICU. It is very well made, has a lot of interior space for non photographic gear and a very capable exterior pocket. I really like the possibility to access (all) photographic (and even non photographic) gear without putting the backpack on the ground. The padding of the shoulder and waist straps is really very poor. Particularly, the waist strap seems also poorly designed, offering little support, although in the field the sensations seem to be not that tragical (I could use it only during my short (two hours), rehab walks, but on a very steep and, for my physical conditions, hard enough path - max. heart rate 100 BPM, drugs slowed). If I had to give an advise, probably I would recommend to think about the Tilopa rather than the Ajna. (I hope to test the Ajna better in some walks in the Alps next summer, if I will survive until then ;D)
https://www.nikonclub.it/forum/uploads/ori/201804/25336549be322f7ac78f454b5595f5ff.jpg
https://www.nikonclub.it/forum/uploads/ori/201804/e21be816fcf11fc10c570314053fad97.jpg
https://www.nikonclub.it/forum/uploads/ori/201804/6d72ec5a1b8c0f66edc1d2eeb6c50f98.jpg
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This works for me, with a lowepro lens case on a hipbelt.
It's hard to take photo backpacks seriously when they don't list the volume of the non-camera compartments. Will the Whistler hold rain gear, fleece and lunch? Who knows.
Great thread, good suggestions.
I don't know all the websites, of course, but Lowepro gives a lot of data and information:
https://www.lowepro.com/whistler
IMO it is easy to gauge what their bags hold from their website.
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One of the issues with rear-access backpacks is that it makes it difficult to impossible to add adjustable torso length or to implement some of the "trampoline" style ventilation panels. On the other hand, if the pack has a hefty belt, the rear-access backpacks allow one to shuck off the shoulder straps and swing the pack around to get at the pack without actually putting the pack on the ground.
Someone a few pages ago mentioned a rear-access mountaineering pack : https://us.mammut.com/p/2510-02222-3374/trion-pro/
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The problem with these packs is access. Without a rear panel, you need to take the whole camera unit out of the bag in order to use it. This is time-consuming and cumbersome at the best of times, making it difficult to stop for a quick shot before moving on (by 'quick' I still mean using tripods, filters, etc. - not something you'd carry on a strap) and almost impossible to shoot in the city or other busy places. And, in many places, there simply isn't the space or the flat ground to take the camera unit out of the bag and put it on the ground.
Without going for a custom-made solution, what about an external frame pack? Just get the metal or composite frame, with harness and belt attached, then attach whatever bags you want to it. You can even attach normal camera bags (not backpacks) to it, as well as other bags or pouches for clothing, food, camping gear, etc. External frame packs are versatile like that. After all, if they can carry a deer carcass, they can handle a few cameras. Not much of a solution around town, though.
The Osprey Kamber series is rear opening just like the F-stop packs and take an F-stop ICU if you like. Acc as to your gear is just as quick and easy as other photo specific packs. The Osprey packs are miles ahead when it comes to load distribution and ventilation. I took my F-stop bag to SEA one time and it was a disaster with the very poor ventilation and weight hanging off your shoulders.
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Hello all. I've been following this thread with great interest as I am looking for something similar.
As it seems like people think that the f-stop bags are average compared to other trekking backpacks, are there any suggestions for rear access backpacks that are considered better than the f-stop series in terms of comfort/load balancing etc?
Sent from my SM-N950F using Tapatalk
Take a look at the Osprey Kamber series of packs.
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There's a women's version of the Kamber, called Kresta. XS = torso 13" -17" ; S/M 16" to 20"
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Don't want to hijack the thread, but: I'm also looking for a backpack and get slightly mad about that, slowly. Good to see some recommendations here. I find it especially hard to find a backpack that doubles as a (real) daypack and still offers some accessibility for the gear. Right now I even end up using a normal backpack for personal stuff and a additional shoulder back (I tend to change lens almost every shot ... my bad habit) but that pretty much the opposite of comfortable. I know there are those mindshifts with the rotational "belly-pack". I tried but at first experience I just don't get it using it ... do you get used to that?! Maybe a real user of those, here?
I am one of those that has a closet full of bags...I am so ashamed (head down...) My wife looks at them and shakes her head. There are even a couple of bags in there for her.
Obviously there is no such thing as a perfect bag for everything, because there are just too many different situations. Most of the time I will take two bags when I travel, one for all the extra gear I might need, and one with my main camera and a couple of lenses. The main bag is an airline transportable roller bag, and the other one I generally use is a sling style shoulder bag. I do like being able to swing it around to switch lenses or grab a fresh battery. The problem with the one shoulder sling bags though is that one shoulder gets all the brunt of the weight and can really start to hurt after a while.
If I'm going to do some serious off road hiking or long term hauling, I like to use a regular backpack with foam pouches. What I've found with most 'dedicated' camera backpacks is that they're just too darned heavy even without any gear in them. Then add gear and the old back really starts to complain. Regular backpacks are nice because they're actually designed to be carried heavy for long hauls. It's all a matter of packing them.
Hope that helps, from a bag junkie. :-)
Patrick
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Another strong vote for the ThinkTank Streetwalker Pro. There are not many bags I'm entirely comfortable wearing while I work with two bodies, one slung each side on Peak Design Slide Lite sling straps. It works because the bag is nice and narrow, and doesn't get in the way, and also has a remarkably light unpacked weight. My Streetwalker Pro is a bit like the Tardis. Carefully packed, it fits a 1DX, gripped 5D4, 70-200 f/2.8isII, 24-70 f/2.8II, 16-35 f/4is, two 600 EX-RT flashes, an external battery, a couple of filters & spare cards. That's tight but it works. Waterbottle, tiny rain umbrella and tripod/monopod go on the outside.
-pw
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I think pack choice also depends on shooting style and on goal. If my goal is to get to point X and set up a planned landscape photo, any comfortable pack will do as long as I have a way to attach tripod. If I am changing lenses all the time, a think-tank or other belt and lens bags will do, plus any light daypack for the water, food, jacket, and tripod, etc. I rather wish that more packs had Molle-type straps on the hip-belt, these are compatible with most of the velcro-plus-tab lens bags. In cold weather with minimal lens requirements (no superteles or lenses over 3 pounds) a vest will do nicely - there are photo vests, and then there are off-the-rack hunters' vests from Cabela's, Bass Pro, or other big box hunting store. If I am just walking around for a mile or two on easy terrain and stopping frequently to set up, more often than not I just use the default shabby Domke shoulder bag and the tripod in its OEM bag.
One other item: Cotton Carrier vest, for easy carriage and access of camera (or cameras, a second one can be attached to the hip belt). This CC vest works just fine under any backpack. Fine for camera with 400 f/5.6 lens or for 180 f/3.5 lens, with button attached to lens foot - allows use of both hands for hiking poles. Drape plastic bag or shower cap over camera/lens if it rains, or else wear an oversized raincoat and zip it with camera inside.
I confess - I am a tripo-holic and a bag/vest/belt/pack-oholic.