Backpacks are something that every photographer is going to need or want at some point. Backpacks allow you to carry your gear comfortably, on your back, spreading out the weight evenly on your body. Backpacks also allow for extra security when you have to carry other things and you need both your arms free.
Here a list of back packs that can be used to suite a variety of condition.
Tamrac Evolution 8
This is my everyday backpack. The Tamrac Evolution 8 is one of the most efficient backpacks for photography I have ever had. Reviewed a while ago, it carries enough for a day of photography. It holds a DSLR with a grip plus up to an 8 inch lens attached, several extra lenses, a flash, and up to a 15.6″ screen laptop.It has quick access to gear and enough room to carry lunch. Its rain cover saves your butt when needed. I got stuck in the freak snowstorm in 2011 and if not for the Evolution 8, all my paperwork and gear would have been soaked. Every photographer needs a bag like this. There is no secret ingredient to this; the Tamrac Evolution 8 just works.
If you know a photographer who is into photo walking or landscape photography, or who carries their gear every day, this is the backpack for them.
Tamrac Evolution Speed Roller Backpack
I saw this bag at PhotoPlus Expo 2012 and went “whoa”. A much bigger version of the Evolution 8, the Evolution Speed Roller is not just a backpack it is also carry on compatible, so its useful for travel also. The bottom compartment holds a DSLR with a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached (up to 8 inches), several extra lenses and a flash. A Windowpane-Mesh’ pocket inside the front panel keeps accessories like memory cards and batteries organized and visible.
If some one you know is traveling this is a good backpack to keep in mind.
Crumpler Sinking Barge Deluxe
My ‘go to’ bag for years was a Crumpler Customary barge. When I had some serious wear and tear issues, Crumpler lived up to its “till death do us part warranty”. They replaced my Customary barge with a Sinking Barge Deluxe and I got to fall in love with a new backpack. This is hands down, one of my favorites. The Crumpler Sinking Barge Deluxe is the backpack I take with me one of those ultra long photography work days. It can safely handle a few DSLR bodies, lenses, flashes, memory , with a tripod. Its also ultra comfortable.
This is a backpack any photographer would appreciate.
Crumpler Identity L
A while ago, I reviewed the Crumpler Haven L, well there is a bag that goes along with it. The Crumpler Identity. It is a water resistant, versatile backpack that can be used for than just a camera bag. With the top opening expandable main compartment with 15-inch laptop sleeve and zippered side compartment with removable large Crumpler Haven camera pouch and internal velcro accessory pockets, this bag can do a lot.
The the person who is not in photographer mode 100% of the time and needs a nice backpack this backpack deserved some consideration.
The Lowepro Flipsides
We have reviewed a few different flipside backpacks on The Phoblographer and they have not let us down. The Flipside 500 Aw is one of the biggest backpacks I have ever used. It can cary a huge amount much gear. However, it is also for carrying huge lenses like the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR II AF Lens.
If you know a photographer that uses super telephoto lenses, or has to carry a lot of gear, this backpack is what they need. If that backpack is too big there is also the Flipside 400aw. which we also reviewed.
Flipside 15L AW
Not every photography backback has to be big or bulk some can be small and sleek. The Flipside 15L is one of those bags. It has body-side access for quick retrieval of gear as well as a removable and adjustable camera compartment, a hydration-ready side pocket, and a weather-protective cover. This bag is for the sports enthusiast photographer. The Flipside Sport 15L AW fits a Pro DSLR with grip, with attached 300mm f/2.8 lens as well as 1-3 extra lenses or flashes, and a Tripod or monopod.
If a photographer is also getting a new mountain bike or hiking boots, throw this back pack in for good measure and get a big hug.
Think Tank Photo Shape Shifter
Some photographer like their bags to hold a lot of gear and be compact The Think Tank Photo Shape Shifter fits this bill. “The Shape Shifter is ideal for carrying around a pro or prosumer type body, a laptop (up to 17″), 3 lenses and a flash or 4 lenses and no flash. It will also take a pro sized body (e.g. Canon 1DMkIV or Nikon D3s) and another prosumer sized body (e.g. Canon 5D or Nikon D700) but you will need to cut down your kit to 3 lenses. In addition to your larger gear, the Shape Shifter has TONS of pockets for all of your documents and camera/laptop accessories.”
This back pack is for the photographer who needs things to be discreet and compact.
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