The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Camera Bag

When choosing a camera bag, the first question you need to ask yourself is: how much do you need to carry? There are several factors that will ultimately decide which type of camera bag is the right one for you. You need to make sure that the style you choose meets your needs, and that is durable enough to last you a long time. 

If you are looking for something that carries all of your kit, including additional lenses, flashguns and accessories, a larger backpack may be in order. If, however, you only want to carry the essentials, you may be able to get away with a more compact bag.

Backpacks

Stylish camera backpacks are a great option if you need to take all or most of your favourite gear on the road with you, or for storing your gear safely at home. If you can’t choose between the wide-angle lenses or telephoto lenses for your trip, a backpack has room to comfortably store both. You can also fit in your flashgun to improve your chances of getting better shots in low light conditions. 

Gadget bags

Gadget bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they generally allow you to take a few of your favourite lenses with you, but not your full kit. If you are heading for a weekend away and you know you will take some landscape shots, but also some portraits of your family, a gadget bag will have room for your wide-angle lens and your prime lens attached to your camera body.

Sling bags

Sling bags are perfect for day trips and street shooting, as they allow you to access your gear quicker than gadget bags. When your gear is not in use, you can comfortably carry the bag at your side, while it can quickly be swivelled to the front of your body when the perfect shot comes along.

Messenger bag

Messenger bags are a good option for maintaining your stylish reputation while you photograph. The best camera messenger bags don’t look like your typical camera bag, which is not only good for your image but can also avoid any unwanted attention that a stacked camera bag can bring. 

Snoot bags

Snoot bags are perfect for day trips. If you have a favourite camera and lens combo, or even an adventure camera, a snoot bag is the best way to keep that kit safe and secure when you head out for a hike or a day walking the streets of the city. 

Size matters

Selecting a bag that is spacious enough for all of your gear is one thing but making sure it will keep your gear safe is another entirely. For example, a big main compartment may be best for storing a camera and several lenses, but without padded protection, all of this equipment will collide together as you move around. Your best bet is a camera bag with compartments and customisable padding, so you can make adjustments to keep your gear safe, as you add and subtract lenses and accessories. 

Is it waterproof?

To ensure your electronic equipment is safe from the rain or small splashes of water, you should ensure it is made from weather-resistant materials. For use in inclement weather, go one step further and select a camera bag that has an all-weather cover.

Here are a couple of extra tips for choosing your camera bag:

• Read reviews to see how other photographers have got on with the bag - positive reviews can be a good indication of quality.
• Make sure the bag you choose has comfortable and supportive straps - camera equipment can be heavy and you want to protect your back and shoulders as much as possible.
• Choose a material that will be easy to keep clean - keep in mind that lighter fabrics will show colour transfer from denim, etc. more easily than darker colours.