Denise, try searching the name of the bag on flickr. Many users post pictures of their bags loaded w/ gear.
Denise, try searching the name of the bag on flickr. Many users post pictures of their bags loaded w/ gear.
Originally Posted by bburns223
Thanks Brendan, I will check that out. I really like John's but want to look over a few more before I order one.
Denise
Hi Denise,
I've had the Kata KT DR-467 (green trim) for about a year now. I like it for not being able to hold too much stuff i.e. makes me think about what exactly I want to carry. It's my choice as a carry on for planes as it meets the size requirements, but you can stuff a lot into it. I've had an XTI with 24-105, 70-200 f4 IS, and 430 EX flash in the bottom compartment with a little room for a sunglass case or other random object. It's a snug fit, but not too crazy. It's also very comfortable to carry around for an entire day.
I also own a Lowepro Rover AWII which is monster of a bag and I don't use it very often due to it's size. The Lowepro Slingshot series is also one of my favorite (even though it's not on your list) for just throwing a few things and going out the door with.
Hope this helps.
Ed
Much like Ed, above, I tend toward a smaller bag for most outings. I have a LowePro Nature Trekker when I need everything, including my f/4 IS Kitchen Sink. But, for the most part, I use my Crumpler Six Million Dollar Home. It easily holds my 5DII, 24-105, 70-200 f/4, 580EX II, 50mm f/1.4, a small rocket blower, plus an extra battery, memory cards, a couple of filters, a lens pen... I usually take a bit less than that and can stuff a small water bottle, or something like that, in there. It's quite a versatile piece of equipment, is relatively small, and looks like a generic shoulder bag. Unfortunately, there's definitely not room for a laptop, although some of the larger Crumpler bags can accomodate one, I believe. I've been very happy with the bag and wouldn't hesitate to buy another Crumpler.
A halfway decent site for camera bags with photos (and reviews by real-world users) is CamBags. It can be a bit hit or miss (and I find their navigation a bit frustrating), but it might just have what you're looking for. I imagine that the "perfect camera bag" is propped up next to the fountain of youth. Good luck with your search!
Aaron
The LowePro Flipside 400AW sounds really nice, and when my gear expands I may look into one for myself, but for now, I like the capacity and portability of the LowePro Flipside 300. It opens in the same manner as the 400. It is a little more compact, judging by the picture above, but has plenty of room for a body with battery grip plus an attached 400mm f/5.6 lens in the middle, with room for a 17-40mm f/4, a full-size flash, a 100mm macro (which I don't own but tried before I bought the bag at the camera shop) and accessories like chargers, etc. It has several individual pockets inside a covered outer zippered pocket that accomodate CF cards and filters, though not likely in the boxes. I don't have the quantity of gear that neuroanatomist does, but for my limited current kit, it does a great job and is very handy to carry or wear.
It also has the foot and straps for my tripod, but I don't like the exposure or security when it is on there, so I carry it in its own separate padded case with a built-in shoulder strap.
That was a tough debate for me (300 vs. 400AW). When I bought the 400AW, I didn't have enough gear to fill it. Now I do, when I want to take everything. I also have the Inverse 200AW (belt pack type) - that's great for a body + 3 'normal' lenses, body + 2'normal'lenses and flash, or body + big white lens, for walking about.
Initially, before buying the 400AW I thought I would end up getting one of the smaller Flipsides down the line, but the 400AW is comfortable enough that I now don't see the need. The main factors that led me to the 400AW over the 300 were not the capacity for more gear (soon, I'll have more than will fit in even the 400AW!), but rather the wider, padded hip belt (it's in the style of a real backpacking pack and actually transfers weight to the hips), the semi-rigid frame the 300 lacks, and the AW cover. I do use the tripod holder for hiking in the wilderness, but I don't use it for urban treks (on those, I'm more likely to carry the Inverse 200 and just the right lenses for the shooting I'll be doing).
Thanks for the website info! I did check it out and it was very helpful, I saw a few that I hadn't on other sites but yep, I am finding that the perfect bag must be propped up right nex to that fountain of youth! [:P]
Denise
Very true. No bag is perfect, and no gear solves all the problems. But really, that Lowepro looks like a solid choice.
Very true. No bag is perfect, and no gear solves all the problems.
I do agree. Until somebody invents a perfect bag, having eventually a few of them may be the way to go. I have read threads full ofposts stating how maybags photogs have and on what occassions theyare being used.
BTW, I have the Flipside 400 and love it for its capacity, ergonomicsandcomfortableness. The 300 is also fine, but itwill betighter if you are planning on taking lens hoodswith you, itswaist belt is not as comfy, its tripod holding system not as strong andthereis noall weater cover.
Right now, the 400 AW is at the top of my list. I was thinking of the 300 for awhile but I'm glad you pointed out the main differences!
Denise
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