Having the privilege of working as an actual photographer, in an environment that throws up all manner of challenges, I have been putting my bag collection to the test.
The overall winner on a standard shooting day is the Domke F802 (reviewed) with or without it’s 2 extra pouches. At first I used the deeper Filson Camera Field Bag more, as I was carrying an EM1 and Grip with 12-40 attached, which did not fit comfortably in the thin profile F802 , but seeing that the gripped EM1 was overkill for many standard tasks, I switched to two EM10/EM5’s (with smaller grips) or an un-gripped EM1 and another body and the Domke has become “the one”. The huge pockets allow me to pack for anything, which I am quickly learning I need to.
Just some of what the F802 can squirrel away without effecting my basic camera kit.
The 802 really excels with flash bits and accessories thanks to it’s ample pocket size. Each of the front pockets and the optional smaller end pouch easily hold a full sized flash or small LED with accessories (each) and the folio pocket between the front pockets and main compartment holds two decent modifiers, freeing up the inside for 2 cameras and 5 lenses. If I add the even bigger end pouch I can add a decent sized tele or even an item of clothing. The top flap pocket takes my spare cards, batteries and ID. The bag is ageing nicely, softening and taking on a “worn jeans” feel.
One thing I still find surprising is how a fully loaded F802, with the Domke non-slip, rubberised postmen’s shoulder pad, can feel effectively weightless. I can carry it for hours with no ill effect and this is after years of shoulder abuse with all connected problems. I put this down to the semi rigid top plate and wide-flat shape. It seems to distribute weight very evenly and keep it’s form. If I need to run anywhere or manoeuvre through a tight space, the top handle is a real boon or the bag worn cross-body and stabilised with one hand works well also.
The Filson Field Camera Bag (reviewed), although a sentimental favourite, sags a little in the middle when fully loaded and pulls a bit on my shoulder. It is also prone to rolling on my hip and slipping off my shoulder if unevenly loaded. If a light kit is needed or just a nicer looking bag, it is always a temptation, but from a practical standpoint, switching gear out from the Domke is rarely a good idea. This year I will keep things simple.
On a light sports day, I will use the Think Tank Turnstyle 10 (reviewed), as most of what I use is “in hand” (or on shoulder), the bag is only required for extra bits and backup lenses etc. The Turnstyle has the magical ability of “disappearing” when not needed, but can take an EM1 with grip, flash and 2 bigger M43 lenses when broken down. It can even take my 300 f4 and a smaller lens.
A new Neewer Pro Backpack has been added for a 2 camera, with 2 mounted tele lens sports rig, now that my trusty 75-300 has been replaced by the 300 and 40-150 pro for most field sports and the 8-18 is included. This bag was cheap, is huge inside and is light. How it holds up will be interesting to see. No other bag I own could handle this pair mounted (i.e. ready to go) including my surprisingly small capacity and often frustrating Pro Tactic 350.
A Small flash upgrade kit (a couple of stands, modifiers and accessories) is housed in a very cheap feeling Neewer bag, that I will likely soon need to replace. Most other bits for my basic flash rig are separately bagged, such as my reflectors and LED lights.
When a big flash kit is needed, I use a much sturdier Neewer 31” Lighting bag and longer extras like tall or C stands and backgrounds go in a longer Neewer Bag. A Neewer square tote holds my flash units and accessories. If I need more than a single camera and lens (that go in the Neewer), I will take a second square Neewer tote. These are nicely low profile for events.
Another bag I have occasionally turned to is the ancient Domke F2 (reviewed). If a large camera, lens and flash with attached modifier are needed “ready to go”, I can gut the bag and configure it to take nearly any shape need. The extra pockets then provide useful space for any “plan b’s”. This is a case of the older “brick” shaped bag showing it’s utility.
My rare and precious Domke F3x rugged (Olive/reviewed), is a bit like the F2. If I need to wear multiple cameras, the F3 sits cross body, snugly on my hip carrying any spare bits needed. This is sometimes more practical than a sling or backpack with multiple slung cameras and is much lower profile than the F2/802. Generally not overly practical in the mirrorless world, the F3’s shape still occasionally has it’s uses.