Taking a DSLR Hiking/backpack

[Spiffyguy]

I am looking on some hints or suggestions on taking a DSLR hiking/backpacking. Everything I try to take my D90 it seems to get in the way with all the pack straps and what not. I am half tempted to just get a point and shoot but I feel bad since I have an awesome camera. What does everyone else do?

Thanks

[Eastree]

I don't remember the name, but a while back I saw a strap online made precisely for taking a camera hiking. It did not attach (permanently) to the camera; rather, it very securely clamped the camera in place, and kept it stable and still, so it didn't interfere with pack straps.

Frankly, I've never truly been hiking or backpacking. I've been on nature walks, though. But I've never used a pack that a camera has interfered with, though, so I don't really have any first-hand experience.

[FDCPR]

Easiest way to carry the camera is to attach the camera to the backpack shoulder straps. The camera straps are long enough to allow the camera to be used without removing the pack and are quick release so the pack and camera can be separated quickly. Years ago backpackers tended to build their own systems, now there are many available commercially. For the most part you can carry camera and a lens of the same size you would normally carry with the camera neck strap. In other words, it's not a good idea to walk around with a super telephoto mounted and carried in this matter, too much stress on the mount. Although, I know one person who does carry a f/4 500mm and camera with the carrier straps attached to the tripod foot on the lens.

[neubauer6]

Every time I have went, I just pack my camera in my pack. When I see something worthy of shooting, I will pull it out. It's usually time for a break by then anyway. Unless you are trying to take pictures of animals, this is the way to go.

[dakwegmo]

I use camera pouch that I can either clip into the accessories rings on my pack's shoulder straps, or just run my sternum strap through the belt loop. It keeps my camera close when I need it, but somewhat protected in a padded, water resistant case. If I carry a spare lens, I use paded cases that can either go on my pack's waistbelt, or get stashed in my pack. I rarely carry more than one extra lens though.

These are like what I use:
Amazon.com: Lowepro Toploader Pro 65 AW: Camera & Photo
Amazon.com: Lowepro Lens Case 1 (Black): Camera & Photo

[sk66]

I'd probably use my G10 P&S for this...maybe even my olympus 1030SW. Depends on "why" I'm bringing the camera...
If the point is to take pictures, then the camera attached to the backpacks straps (and the backpack full or more photography stuff probably).

[Jim Poor]

The Cotton Carrier might be something to look into.

[NgaiHill]

I used to have a Sony Cybershot with a Lowepro bag that had a belt strap on the back, velcro fastened. It was ideal to hang on the waist belt of my pack and light enough not to drag down on it. Last trip I took my DSLR in a bigger Lowepro bag without the handy back strap. I ended up hanging it over one shoulder with the camera almost under one arm, so I could get at it. Not ideal and on the trip home I ended up just carrying the camera cos it just got time consuming having to stop and get some one to get it out from the back of my pack which is where it ended up. Finding some way to attach it to the pack shoulder straps so that it suspended down the front would be ideal.

[WVCoalMiner]

I 2nd the Cotton carrier Comment

Cotton Carrier Camera_System

[Spiffyguy]

That is one serious carrying system. Not sure if I am up to that level yet. I just have a d90 with the 18-105 and 55-200. Normally I just carry the 105. I do need to pick up a good 18-200 or some such similar lens. I tend to carry my camera cross body at places like the zoo or short nature hikes with no day pack. Easier to tend to the kids. But it does get in the way a little. Things flying all over the place when I need to bend down or something. I can only image with a pack it would be a bit more congested. I like to keep it out as opposed to pack, you never know when that deer will pop out on the path. How do you attach the camera to the pack straps?