Camera Cases, Bags and Covers
While camera manufacturers try to make their equipment durable, sophisticated electronics and delicate optical glass can be seriously damaged if they are dropped or soaked with rainwater. A good camera bag or camera case will protect your precious gear from a range of hazards and also helps to keep it all organized for when it is time to shoot. From the tiniest compact camera to the bulkiest professional DSLR, there is a camera protection option to suit every camera and every photographer.
What Designs Are Available?
The right camera bag for your needs will depend on how much equipment you want to carry and where you want to take it.
● Camera pouches and camera holsters are perfect for carrying a single camera body with a single lens. Many also include extra pockets for memory cards, batteries, and other accessories.
● Camera backpacks and sling bags vary in size but typically provide enough space for multiple lenses. Padded straps and panels make them a comfortable way to carry more equipment than could fit into a pouch.
● Rolling cases are the best way to carry a lot of equipment all at once and are often hardshell designs. The size makes them impractical for most users, but professional photographers will find it very convenient. ● Lens bags are a great way to give your glass some extra protection. They can be used inside a camera bag and they are also useful for carrying around very large lenses that might not fit into a bag.
What Should My Camera Bag Be Made Of?
Unsurprisingly, there are many different materials to choose from, and each has its own advantages:
● Leather camera bags are a very traditional option. Their rugged good looks make them a popular choice today as well.
● Synthetic materials like nylon are extremely tough and often come with internal padding to protect your camera from impacts. Waterproof camera bags tend to be made from synthetics, but bear in mind that not all synthetic bags are waterproof.
● Hardshell cases are the standard for transporting camera equipment. Hard aluminum or polymer shells make them heavy for carrying around by hand, but there is no better option than a camera hard case when you need to fly with your camera.
Which Features Should I Look Out For?
● If you want to take your camera out in the rain, waterproofing is a must. Look out for waterproof materials, sealed zippers and special waterproof seams. Some waterproof camera bags also come with an optional rain cover for extra protection.
● Most photographers don’t just carry a camera and a lens, so extra pockets are very useful. This gives you a way to store and organize accessories like batteries, memory cards and lens filters.
● Comfort is key when you are carrying a heavy camera around, so look out for a design that you can see yourself wearing all day. Padded straps are a very important feature for camera backpacks.