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Photography Question 
- Nevia Cashwell

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Photo Backpack Recommendation?


Hello. I am looking into buying a new photo backpack to replace my current Tamrac Adventure 8 backpack. I carry a Digital Rebel with 4 lenses, 2 of which are a 100mm macro and 28-135mm which are fairly large. Also with these 2 lenses, I like to carry them with lens hoods attached. Current backpack is getting snug. Would like more room but not too much more. Would also like a pack that makes it easy to attach a tripod. Thanks in advance. Nevia


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April 07, 2005

 

Michael H. Cothran
  There are more kinds and shapes of backpacks made, that it would be impossible for anyone to choose for you. Why not just go to a large camera store, or google online? Tamrac is a superb line, and should have anything you desires. Domke also has quite a selection, but there are literally gazillions available. Don't buy something that I think you need. Define and determine you own personal needs, and then find the pack that fits.
Michael H. Cothran
www.mhcphoto.net


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April 07, 2005

 

Mark Feldstein
  Try this site:
http://www.kinesisgear.com

Great packs and bags and accessory packs. They're extremely well made, durable, flexible and excellent protection for your equipment.
Mark


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April 07, 2005

 

Bob Cammarata
  Instead of a "photo" back-pack, you might to consider a standard back-pack..(the kind the hikers use), to carry your gear.
I recently bought a pack at Sunny's Surplus which accommodates all of my photo gear,...including a compact tripod, for about a third of what a photo-pack with far less storage would have cost.

There is also the issue of security. A generic back-pack will attract less attention than something with a brand name on it which indicates that it contains something of value.


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April 07, 2005

 
- Nevia Cashwell

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  thanks guys for all of the advice. Bob ... I had thought myself about going the regular backpack route. Do you remember what model you purchased? I don't have an outdoor store or a camera store convenient to me so I may have to purchase online via trial and error. thanks Nevia


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April 08, 2005

 

Bob Cammarata
 
 
  ....Kept a Rollin'
....Kept a Rollin'
Self portrait...(wearing my new pack.)

Bob Cammarata

 
 
Nevia,
The model I ended up getting was the Kelty Redwing 3100.
It doesn't have the handy compartments for lenses and other gear but it carries my full "arsenal"...(around 45 lbs.)...really well.

I will attempt to upload a recent self portrait in which I'm wearing the pack. ...(I hope it works).


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April 08, 2005

 

Jo Barker
  There are some good deals to be had on e-bay.

I have seen many camera bags on there.

Jo


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April 12, 2005

 

Karma Wilson
  So bob, out of curiosity what is your method for protecting your lenses and keeping everything tidy in your pack? I'm interested in getting a pack for my gear but would want my lenses well protected.

Karma


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April 12, 2005

 

Bob Cammarata
  Karma,
I recently submitted this info to the "Tips" section at BP, and I copied and pasted it here to hopefully answer your question:

17. Inexpensive Protection

Those handy felt bags that come with Crown Royal Whiskey ..(the 1.75 L size), make great soft cases for lenses, flash units, camera bodies, and other stuff. They can usually be found on places like E-bay pretty cheap or if you know someone who owns a bar or restaurant, you can ask them to collect them for you.
In addition to the felt bag, the gallon sized plastic food storage bags sold at any grocery store provide cheap, temporary, water-proof protection for your cameras and gear. The bags with the sliding “zipper” are quicker to use than the “pinch-to-close” styles. They will usually last around ten trips or so before they need to be replaced, and can offer a little extra peace of mind while afield. Bob Cammarata

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cammphoto.com

member since: 7/17/2003
11/10/2004 12:29:00 AM

I've been using these as lens protection for years,...working in and around water most of the time.
My biggest (and most expensive)lens has its own hard case. It fits in the pack OK but sometimes waits for me back in the car, on those days I need to travel light. ;)
Bob


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April 12, 2005

 

Randy Totten
  I own a Kata camera backpack and it is great. It is well made and recently while 4wheeler riding I had a little accident and went for a swim with it on my back. I got out and to dry land as fast as I could. My camera (canon 20D), 2 lens, flash, battery grip, and misc small stuff was all dry. The packs foam had absorbed the water that had managed to get in and everything was fine.
I hope this helps.


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April 13, 2005

 
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