It’s not very often when a product really surprises me. When it comes to my daily photography I usually carry my gear in a backpack like the Crumpler Customary Barge or a Tarmac evolution 8. Sometimes these bags get in the way as they can be somewhat bulky, especially at events. When I got my hands on the properly named Event Messenger 150, I knew my problem was solved. After using the bag for a while I’ve become really comfortable with it.
Testing Gear
Hahnel Combi TF Remote Control & Flash Trigger
Styling
The bag has a modern, refreshing look to it. It’s like great image post processing, it is there but not so easy to notice. If you are walking around with your camera gear put away, people will not notice it as a “camera bag”.
Specifications
Capacity: DSLR with attached lens; 2-3 extra lenses (up to 70-200mm f/2.8) or a flash and 2 lenses; tablet; accessories and personal items |
Size(Interior): 11.6W X 3.9D X 8.6H in./ 29.5 X 10 cm |
Size(Exterior): 13.5W X 6.2D X 10.5H in./ 34.3 X 15.8 X 26.6 cm |
Notebook Compartment Inner Dimensions: 21.8W in./ cm |
Front Compartment Inner Dimensions: 11W X 0.8D X 7.1H in./ 28.0 X 2.0 X 18.0 cm |
Outer fabric: 840x600D Nylon PU CTD, 420D Oxford Nylon PU CTD, 600D Oxford Nylon PU CTD |
Interior Fabric: 200 D Polyester PU CTD, 160G Tricot 3mm PU Foam |
Weight: 1.4lbs/0.6kg |
Features
The Event messenger 150 can hold a decent amount a gear for its size like a D90 with a 35mm 1.8G lens a Nikon 50mm 1.8D flash as well as an iPad, a film body, extra roll of film, extra battery, and the Hahnel Combi TF Remote Control & Flash Trigger.
If you’re holding a bigger pro size camera like the D700 or a 7D with an 50mm f1.8, you can fit another smaller lens as well a flash, an iPad, and extra batteries. If your space everything correctly you can get the camera with a 50mm lens on, a flash and an 70-200mm f2.8 lens. It’s a little snug but it works.
The zippers are sturdy and hold everything snugly.
You can use either the hard clip or the Velcro to keep your bag closed.
The bag has nice fold in flap design which adds a little extra padding.
There are expandable pockets on the side for a small bottle of water or a portable tripod like the Ultrapod 2.
The Pad on the strap is movable and keeps the bag securely on your shoulder.
The hand held strap is on the back of the Event messenger 150 and is strong, but can also be tucked away when not in use.
The dividers in the bag can be configured in any way needed. It’s all up to the photographer.
The bottom of the bag is not really meant to be placed on the ground so the bottom is the same material as the rest of the bag
Usage
I used the event messenger in a few different ways. I used it on photo walks in New York City, along nature hikes in South Mountain Reservation in New Jersey, and as my commute bag in some daily travels. This bag will be perfect for event photography or when you want to travel light and fast..
Ease of Access
The bag was great in tight spaces. It was very easy to get the camera in and out of the bag when needed. If I had to change a lens, I could do it efficiently without having to take the bag off. I could get to everything in the bag when I needed to. The openings are great. Big and small hands alike will find this the Event Messenger 150 convenient.
Notes
Fifty pounds ago, I would of found this bag slightly uncomfortable (I’ve lost some weight). A larger person should try this bag on before they buy it. If it’s too small there is a larger version, the Event Messenger 250. Because there is no protection I would not place this bag down on a raining day. This bag lacks an optimal rain cover. I would keep a few large zip lock bags for those tiles you get trapped in a rain. A good size plastic shopping bag could also provide a bit of extra rain protection.
Who is the Bag Best For?
This bag is for the photographer on the go. The Event messenger 150 is great for traveling light and fast. If you’re traveling all day and have to carry a LOT of gear, this is not the bag for you. This bag does live up to its name and fits in brilliantly at events. It’s nice, no-nonsense and unobtrusive The Event messenger 150 does what it’s intended to do in a sensible way.
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