Bags & Cases for cameras, camcorders, filters, lenses, tripods & other accessories. Protect your camera gear from shocks, knocks, scratches, and the weather. These are easy to carry around, holds all your stuff in one place, and make it easy to access your camera equipment. Here’s a guide to selecting the best camera bags, and the factors that you need to consider when buying one.
Reasons to Own a Camera Bag
Photography has evolved a lot over the years; photographers now use multiple cameras (of various sizes and configurations), multiple lenses and filters, and various other accessories. Professional camera gear is also expensive and one needs to take good care of it.
As a result, it is important for a photographer to own a suitable camera bag with sufficient storage.
- It will help keep all your camera gear and accessories in one place, and also offer fast access to the camera/gear to ensure you don’t miss out on any moment.
- It also offer adequate protection to the gear inside from knocks, scratches and the elements. These professional camera bags have foam padding to protect your expensive equipment better, even from accidental drops.
- Lot of professional photographers also carry their laptop for most shoots, so that they can touch up the pictures and send it to their clients right away. The bigger-sized camera bags nowadays provide space for a laptop as well.
Buying a Camera Bag: What to Look for?
Today, camera bags and cases are available in various designs and sizes; you get small and compact camera bags, sling bags, holster bags, and bigger-sized backpacks (to carry multiple bodies, lenses, lots of accessories, and even a laptop).
The best camera bags are thoughtfully designed to carry a lot of stuff, they also have excellent foam padding to protect your expensive camera equipment.
Since photographers do outdoor shoots, most camera bags are also weather resistant and sturdy to handle accidental drops. Professional camera bags are also water resistant so that the equipment inside the bag is not affected in case it rains or snows when you are shooting outdoors.
Most women have also taken to photography in a big way. So now you just do not have just the dull-looking camera bags. You do get a nice selection of colors, for those who are looking for some variety.
In addition to camera bags, you also get cases for accessories such as lenses, filters, and tripods as well.
In addition to adequate storage space, you need to consider the following before buying a camera bag.
Easy to Carry: When shooting outdoors, on several occasions, you have to do a lot of walking to get to your location. In that case, the bag needs to be extremely comfortable on your back even when carrying over long distances. It’s also important that you have few different ways to carry the bag just in case you are tired you can change positions. You should be able to put it over the shoulder or grab it using the top or the side handle.
Should Be Discreet: If you’re going to do a lot of street photography, it is important that your camera bag is discreet. It should not be easily possible for people to tell that the bag you are carrying is actually a camera bag laden with expensive stuff, and attract unnecessary attention of thieves. When you’re travelling through busy places carrying expensive professional camera equipment, you should avoid attracting attention.
Sufficient storage space: Make sure you buy a camera/camcorder bag with sufficient pockets, pouches or straps so that you can conveniently store stuff (you can find them at one convenient place). The bag should also be easy to carry around.
You can choose from a wide range of camera bags such as form-fitting camera cases, small camera bags & fanny packs, sling bags, and camera backpacks.
- The form fitting DSLR camera bags are for cameras of specific brands and models. These are also provided directly by the manufacturer.
- Fanny packs & small bags can be used to carry a variety of camera types; you can even store more than one lens. These are more of multipurpose bags and can be used outdoors.
- Sling-packs and backpacks are best if you have lots of camera related gear, besides personal stuff, and are more suitable for outdoor shoots and for travel.
Though all camera bags claim to be waterproof, you may still want to confirm that just to be on the safer side.
Camera bags are available in various sizes and styles. Even in terms of fabric and color, you do have plenty of choices. Women photographers can opt for more colorful and stylish camera bags. As for brands, there are some good ones out there which we have reviewed on our site. Whichever brand of camera bag you pick, just make sure that you get yourself an excellent and practical one.
Best Camera Bags & Cases for Amateurs & Professionals
Here are the more popular types of camera bags:
Backpack Camera Bags
DSLR cameras are bigger in size compared to compact cameras and have detachable lenses. As a result, there are more openings through which dust and water can creep inside an SLR camera, compared to a compact camera. Also, most professionals have multiple lenses of varying sizes.
A backpack camera bag is spacious, can carry multiple lenses and gear, and has more features. It also has ample storage space for a laptop. Camera Backpacks (rucksacks) are perfect when going on long treks and outdoor shoots as it evenly divides the weight across your back and shoulders.
Due to its size, however, it can be difficult to quickly access things in your camera bag.
If you see something interesting, it can take some time for you to get your camera ready for the shot. You have to take the bag off your shoulder to access the lens inside the bag. It is also difficult to maneuver in crowded areas with the bag due to its bulky size. Also, while using the bag with the tripod, the bag moves from side to side
A backpack camera bag is big enough to fit everything (camera, multiple lenses, and accessories like flash, lens hood, tripod, filters for the lenses, battery packs, chargers, cables, etc.), including some personal belongings. These have a lot of compartments, both on the side as well as the outside, and have adequate padding, quality materials, and good external straps. In most bags, you will also find straps on the bottom, to carry the tripod.
A Backpack camera bag looks like a regular backpack and is convenient to carry on your shoulders and is also suited when you go on outdoor shoots, including treks.
Lowepro Flipside 300 AW DSLR Camera Backpack
The Lowepro Flipside 300 AW is a practical DSLR Camera Backpack that designed to carry only what you need for most wildlife photo trips.
It features a removable accessory pouch allows you to take cables, chargers, manuals and other key accessories with you when you need them. You can expand its carrying capacity with the sliplock compatible pouches. Hideaway tripod holder carries a compact tripod or monopod.
Tough water resistant outer fabric protects. Detachable waist belt and adjustable sternum strap. Dimensions: 17.5 x 10.2 x 6.9 inches, Weight: 2.73 pounds
Lowepro LP36975 Photo Classic BP 300 AW Camera Backpack
The Photo Classic BP 300 AW is spacious enough to fit a DSLR with attached lens (up to 70-200mm), few lenses lenses or other accessories, multiple action cameras, a 10″ tablet, and a tripod (attached to the exterior of the bag)
Several zippered pockets. Padded interior provides a protective surface
This bag is suitable for photographers looking for a protective, lightweight, streamlined bag that’s packed with practical features at a great price.
Sling Camera Bags
Though backpacks are quite popular and are quite comfortable to carry, many photographers prefer something that is a bit lighter and doesn’t give the impression that you are going on a long trek.
In case you are looking for something different from a backpack, something that lets you access your camera much faster, then a sling-bag will be more appropriate for you.
A sling-bag is somewhat like backpacks but is worn only over one shoulder (can be pulled to your side without removing it), and allows for easier access to your gear. You can use these to carry DSLR, point and shoot cameras, GoPro.
Sling camera bags allow you to go from carrying your gear on your back, to taking your shot without having to take off the camera bag. Quick rotation from back to front allows easy access to your camera, lenses and accessories.
These bags are perfect for locations where you may not get a surface where you can keep the camera bag down and remove your camera gear.
These are convenient, provide quick access to camera kits, and offer adequate protection to the camera gear. These are not too big yet are large enough to fit a DSLR with attached standard zoom lens; 3-4 additional lenses or flash units and accessories (longer lenses or telephoto lenses may not fit however). The one-shoulder design may cause a little discomfort and strain on the shoulder and back; you’ll also need to take the bag off your shoulder, keep it down and open it all the way in case you want to change the lens.
Most women prefer it because it doesn’t really look like a typical camera bag.
These bags have a box inside to house the camera and the accessories. And the best part is that the camera box is removable. So the next time you want to use the bag as a regular bag, just remove the box and use the bag to hold anything you like.
As with most camera bags, internal zippered pockets are provided in these camera bags to give you more storage options; you can expand carrying capacity by adding compatible pouches, cases and bags. These bags offer flexibility and comfort when you are outdoors or sightseeing.
Recommended Camera Sling Bags & Cases
Lowepro Slingshot 202 AW DSLR Sling Camera Bag: Fits a Pro DSLR with attached zoom lens; 4-6 additional lenses or flash units and accessories; compact tripod or monopd (via foldout holder); personal items. All Weather AW Cover protects your camera gear and Includes a built-in microfiber cloth for and two memory card pockets
Mosiso Photo Sling Backpack for Cameras: Multiple dynamic compartments to hold all your belongings in one safe and convenient place. Padded adjustable dividers, mesh pockets for smaller items/accessories, tripod/monopod holder. Dimensions: 15.7 x 7.9 x 4.8 inches
Case Logic DCB-308 SLR Camera Sling: Has enough space to fit SLR camera with standard zoom lens attached or DSLR with grip (when stored vertically), Adjustable divider system provides customizable space for your gear/accessories, comes with a Weather hood
Holster Camera Bags
Ideally, every photographer would like to carry a large bag that can hold all your camera and photo related things, and something that is convenient to carry as well.
But then, some of these bags may not let you access your gear immediately due to their design, which can be a hindrance under certain conditions, such as for those who are into wild life photography or if you are a photo journalist.
A Holster camera bag is a comparatively small bag that can comfortably carry a camera and one/two lenses.
A Holster bag is more convenient to uses these in certain situations, instead of conventional camera bag, backpack or shoulder bag, especially if you’re planning to carry just a single body and lens.
Most photographers also prefer a holster bag because it provides easy access to the camera gear and are quite comfortable for outdoor shoots.
Recommended Holster Camera Bags
Even though these camera bags fit a variety of DSLR cameras, most holster camera bags can only carry one camera and lens.
Case Logic SLRC-201 SLR Zoom Holster
The Case Logic logo Case Logic SLRC-201 SLR Zoom Holster bag is tough, has rugged styling with a professional grade interior and organization. Comes with internal suspension system to protect the camera and lens, several zippered pockets provide ample accessory storage. You may carry the bag using the padded, top-oriented handle, or use the detachable shoulder strap.
Think Tank Digital Holster 30 V2.0
The Think Tank Digital Holster 30 V2.0 is an excellent case that fits most standard-size DSLRs (the popular ones from Canon and Nikon). Bag height can be increased for a lens hood or a telephoto lens Lens hood can remain attached. It comes with a sturdy detachable shoulder strap. Make sure you buy the PRO SPEED belt too.
Leather Camera Bag
Leather camera bags can look stylish and yet practical. It is perfect for someone who doesn’t want a bag that looks dull and boring, and has an eye for aesthetics. Leather bags are of good quality and usually last longer if you take good care of them.
In terms of color, you have various shades of brown and black. The better camera bags use quality material, have good stitching and layout, and have customizable compartments. You also get water resistance leather bags that are more suited for shooting in harsh conditions.
These come with several pockets to keep your accessories (like batteries and memory cards), as well as personal belongings. A leather camera bag features removable baskets, adjustable dividers, lots of pockets, variety of sizes, and gives you the option to wear the bag messenger style.
These looks stylish and can also be used as fashion messenger bag. These have padded lining inside for protection, has adjustable shoulder strap, you also can take the padded insert out (to use it as a fashion messenger bag). These can also be used as multi-purpose bag, for storing laptops, netbooks, notebooks, and more.
These bags keep your camera protected and your accessories handy, and is especially suitable for digital photojournalists, news, and sports photographers, who need to capture those extraordinary moments that happen in a split second.
Ona Bags The Bowery Leather Camera Bag: Made with Italian-tanned leather and detailed with antique brass accents, it features five exterior pockets for personal items and an interior padded with closed-cell foam, the Leather Bowery can carry a camera, one extra lens and small personal items. Buy on Amazon
The Brooklyn by ONA: This bag is designed for the everyday shutterbug, the Brooklyn has space for a body with a lens, a spare lens and even a notebook or tablet. Buy on Amazon
MegaGear Leather Camera Bag: Premium Italian leather. Suitable for instant, mirrorless, and DSLR cameras along with 1-2 lenses or camera accessories. Pockets at the front and sides. The bag is lined with heavy duty shock resistant material for better protection. Available in various shades – Black, Brown, Blue, Maroon, Olive or Mink. Buy on Amazon
Khaki Camera Bags
Khaki shoulder camera Bags have a simple appearance yet they look fashionable and unique, and these can be used by both men and women.
These are well equipped to protect your DSLR cameras and a few accessories, and also offer space for your personal items. The strap is adjustable and you increase its lengthened to wear the bag in a cross-body style.
If you like items with vintage military looks then you will definitely like these Khaki bags as they do look stylish than most other bags.
For Women
Women have taken to photography big time, and it is quite common to see women having the latest camera equipment. Photography, not long back, was seen as the bastion of men, but not anymore. But then, for most women, this is just a hobby and they may have a functional and compact camera.
Nevertheless, when it comes to camera bags, their preference can be much different from men. Women want more options when it comes to color and design, want their bags to look cute & stylish. Fortunately for them, they do have lots of options nowadays. Manufacturers did take note of this fact, and have introduced a range of stylish camera bags for women. Some of these are actually gender-neutral and can be used by men as well, so do check them out.
Compact Camera Cases
A compact camera case is compatible with most compact point-and-shoot cameras. These cases have beefy padding and protection and come with several pouches.
The durable dobby nylon and interior padding protects your camera against daily wear and tear. The Belt loop allows for easy transport. it also has Zippered pocket to store memory cards and other small accessories. The back of the case has a fixed strap for handholding it easily. Some camera cases may even fit your waist so you can use it as a belt strap. These usually also come with a long adjustable strap.
These cases have the main section in the middle, a smaller compartment behind, and a relatively bigger compartment in the front – suitable for extra batteries and other accessories.
Even though these are compact camera cases, there is no reason why you can’t use them for your flip video cameras, or even for your portable mp3 player.
Waterproof Camera Bags
Electronic devices, such as digital cameras, and water don’t mix; this is why it is important to protect your camera from water (rains) when you’re shooting outdoors. You get waterproof bags and bags that are suitable for underwater photography.
Waterproof camera bags have water-resistant coverings that keep out light precipitation or moisture, but a few employ more intense methods of protection, like treated fabrics and secondary waterproof covers. With waterproof camera bags, there’s no need to fear rain when you have a camera (or mobile phone) in your hands.
Waterproof Camera Bags are ideal for places where you have lots of rain, or if you are going out surfing, kayaking, swimming pool, underwater outdoor activities, or any kind of outdoor sports where you may have to get in the water to take pictures.
In addition to being waterproof, these bags are dustproof ward, sand proof, rain and snowproof
Waterproof camera bags are available in different sizes and designs; some are designed to fit all camera equipment and some are designed to fit only a single camera.
Other Offerings
Most of these camera bags for pros are also discreet so that they don’t attract unnecessary attention. This is particularly helpful in crowded places or when you are traveling; you don’t want someone to rob you of your expensive belongings.
DSLR Camera bag or one that has space for a laptop as well.
Leather Bags
Underwater cases
Camera Bag Brands
Lowepro Camera Bags and Cases
Greg Lowe (founder of the company) was an avid mountaineer, photographer and filmmaker; he was among the first to develop lightweight and foam-padded nylon cases to protect camera and cinematography equipment from the hazards of climbing. Lowepro makes all kinds of camera bags and cases such as Backpacks, Shoulder Bags, Sling Bags, Rolling Cases, Toploading, Modular, Beltpacks, Optics, Pouches, Accessories. Lowepro bags tend to offer good storage space and protection, and offer easy access to the equipment.
- Lowepro Fastpack 350 AW DSLR Camera Backpack: Enough space to carry a digital SLR with grip and a 24-70mm f/ 2.8 or 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached, plus 17″ Widescreen notebook. More storage space for additional lenses such as 18-200mm, 100, 400 VR, or 70-300mm f/4, flash, and other personal accessories. Side-entry compartments, you can customize main compartment using adjustable dividers.
- Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW Camera and Laptop Backpack: Fits: 1-2 Pro DSLRs, one with up to 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached 8 lenses/speedlights 15 laptop Tripod Accessories.
Tamrac Camera Bags
Tamrac is a popular manufacturer of photographic equipment bags and backpacks; they make a great range of camera bags and cases to meet a wide variety of needs, including mountain hiking camera bags, discreet professional camera backpacks, shoulder bags, toploader everyday bags, as well as a range of lens cases to protect individual lenses.
Based in California, Tamrac makes tough camera bags that offers excellent protection to the equipment inside, yet were easy to carry and allowed fast access to camera equipment to capture spontaneous wildlife pictures. Most of their bags have room for multiple cameras and supplies.
Website: More camera bags on tamrac.com
- Tamrac Anvil Slim 15 Photo/Laptop Backpack with Belt
- Tek Digital by Tamrac Medium Sized Digital Camera & Video Bag
KATA Camera Bags and Cases
The founders of KATA have experience in making complicated military equipment. KATA has evolved as a top-quality company from being once an R&D lab. KATA offers a wide range of camera bags and cases, including shoulder bags, mini-cases, rain covers, pouches, sling bags and several other support cases. These are suited for various weather conditions and will suit every discriminating photographer’s unique tastes and needs.
Kata Bumblebee UL-222 Backpack: For serious photographers who want the best protection. The lower compartment can accommodate a Pro DSLR with lens attached, additional body, The upper compartment has space for personal effects. Additional space is available in the rear for laptop. There are many pockets/side pockets for personal effects and small accessories.
Case Logic Camera Bags
Case Logic makes all styles of camera bags, such as backpacks, sling, holster, compact cases, and more. They come in various sizes and are designed to fit the most popular cameras and camcorders of various brands. Their DCB line of camera cases, in particular, are quite popular. Known for their innovative design and functionality, the company provides the most complete selection of storage accessories in the industry.
Case Logic DSLR makes nice over-the-shoulder camera bags, which makes them easy to carry around all day. It has got enough space to keep all different types of lenses. You simply swing them around your shoulders, and whenever you’re ready to shoot, allows for instant access to your SLR and accessories. These are great bags for carrying over the shoulder and can carry your camera with lenses easily, securely and safely.
It also features a unique hammock system that suspends your SLR above the bottom of case, which means the camera stays safe inside and provides much better impact protection, just in case you drop your bag.
Their compact camera cases come with separate, zippered accessory pockets, and also feature belt for easy attachment. An internal slip pocket is usually provided for SD card.
Canon Camera Bags
Leading digital camera manufacturer Canon also makes accessories including bags/cases. Canon camera bags includes a selection of shoulder bags, backpacks, slingbags, holsters, and a variety of cases. Though these can be used with other brands of cameras as well, most of them are design for canon products. So protect your investment with a camera bag from Canon. Canon camera bags are big enough to store your digital camera, your memory cards and other accessories that are needed for you to take great pictures. These have adequate padding and are water resistant, which makes perfect for your camera gear, including accessories and some of your personal belongings.
Nikon Camera Bags & Cases
Nikon, known for its cameras, also makes a range of bags and cases. Nikon camera bags are perfect for those who own digital cameras or camcorders. Their bags have lots of space with numerous pockets and dividers to keep everything neat and organized, and feature padded handles and sturdy wall construction.
Nikon Digital SLR Camera Case Gadget Bag: Large bag made from durable nylon, fitted with a slip-resistant handle, comes with padded shoulder strap, several zippered and velcro-closure pockets. Zippered pockets on the inside and on the front. two gusseted side pockets and one back pocket. Ideal for storing your digital SLR camera, plus lenses and accessories.
Canon Deluxe Photo Backpack
This cool Bag easily fits two smaller SLR camera bodies, 3-4 lenses, and additional small accessories. It is constructed of waterproofed polyester and nylon, is water repellant and urethane coated for extra durability. It has a padded divider system for on-the-go organization; includes tripod straps on pack bottom
Lightweight, with padded shoulder straps and back for comfortable use.
Canon SLR Gadget Bag
This camera bag can hold 1 SLR camera body with 3 to 5 lenses, flash and small accessories. It also has straps at the bottom to easily carry a tripod or monopod. The padded adjustable dividers allow you to customize the case to your equipment. The large front pocket with internal compartments makes it perfect for keeping notes & papers. It comes with a durable shell, rugged, water repellent, nylon fabric, that not only looks great but also protects your valuable equipment.
To sum it up, a camera bag is an important accessory to protect your camera equipment and keep them all in one place. There are plenty of options in the market. Besides being functional, you can choose a camera bag that is stylish and comfortable as well. In general, a camera bag should be well-built and have lots of pockets, pouches, and placeholders so that you can easily get your gear in and out quickly of the bag. When you are choosing a bag that is going to carry lots of stuff, it needs to be discreet (if you travel a lot with your camera gear) so that it doesn’t attract unnecessary attention. If you travel with the family, be it going to the park or on a long vacation, you can use a small or sling camera bag to carry your camera gear as well as some of your personal stuff.
Shoulder Bags |
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Holster Camera Bag |
Hard Camera Case |
Leather Camera Bags |
Cute Camera Bags |
Pink Camera Bags/Cases |
Camera Bean Bags |
Canvas Camera Bags |
Rain Covers |
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