Gadget Bag, Backpack and .....?

[Michael_2010]

I have a gadget bag full of odds and ends that only travels from my house to the back of my SUV. It didn't take me long to figure out that there was no way I was going to lug that thing around while out shooting. So, I got a backpack and loaded it up with my lenses, filters and some cleaning gear. That is much, much better for long walks with an extended stay at the final destination. However, it is still just too much to carry around, while taking a casual walk or attending an event of some sort.

Da-Da-Da-Der-Dah-Duh-Dah-Daah! Finally the question! lol

What is a comfortable, small device that could hold 1-2 lenses and some filters? Something that might attach to a belt, or even over the shoulder if it is not too large and obtrusive. Just as soon as I go somewhere with one lens I immediately start to think if I had only brought my (name a lens). I want some options, but I want to keep it very streamlined.

Does any of that make any sense?

[jdepould]

ThinkTank has a belt system that might fit the bill.

[Michael_2010]

Thanks, do you have a particular model in mind?

[sk66]

Tamrac Velocity series are sling bags...biggest issue with them is the heavily tapered sides make them hold less than they should. I use a velocity 7 to carry just a couple lenses (larger "pro" lenses) and a flash but find it less than ideal due to the shape. I tend to carry it as a shoulder bag instead of a sling bag which isn't ideal. I just bought a Crumpler Buddgie to try instead of the 7.
I have a velocity 9 to carry if I want the camera in the bag (D3) with a lens/flash. It works quite well, but is on the "large side" for a gadget bag. The sling bags work quite well when used as designed and sized appropriately for your gear. (add a size to what you think you'll need as thier description is a bit optomistic IMO)

They also have waist belts which is doubly nice.

Consider how you carry your camera. If you carry it out on a strap, the bag's strap shouldn't be on the same shoulder.

[RichardTaylor]

Think tank Change up.

Smallish, can be worn as a belt pack, or over the shoulder/across the chest with the addition of a shoulder strap.

Water bottle carriers and/or flashgun holders etc can be attached to the belt if need be.

I own own and it is a good product. I also own other Think Tank bags.

A review is here.

Think Tank Photo Change Up Bag Review | Camera Dojo - Take better pictures with our photography tutorials and podcast

[Michael_2010]

Thanks for all the good info. Gives me a lot to think about before making a decision.

My plan with this bag is to really scale down what I carry with me in most situations. My camera will be on a strap and I have no need to stick it in such a bag. I just want to keep a couple of lenses handy, so I can easily go from ultra-wide to telephoto.

[sk66]

Well, the crumpler budgie doesn't work for me...almost holds as much as the velocity7...will easily hold two lenses+ odds ends. In the end I'm more comfortable w/ the Tamrac.
If you are interested I'll sell it to you for $35 shipped. It's between the 4 and 5 million dollar home in size but it has a "sling style" strap instead of "shoulder strap". Unused like new. (If not it will go on E'bay)

[Photologyst]

I like to wear a vest. This one is great if you don't like a photo-vest: Travel Vest from SCOTTEVEST/SeV - Men's Travel Vest with Hidden Pockets ? Our Best Travel Vest also works as a Photographers Vest with many Vest Pockets and a Gadget Vest - Men's Black Vest - Multi-Pocket Travel Vest - 22 Pocket Travel Vest - Cloth

[dbevisjr]

Hey Michael, I use the Lowepro Slingshot 102AW. It will hold a camera w/lens, a second lens, spare battery, flash, filters, remote, cleaning supplies, pen, small note pad and a couple of snack bars. With a little room left over for other small items if needed. There is a small pocket on the bottom that has a rain cover to pull out in bad weather that pulls right over the bag to protect your gear. I like it.

[Michael_2010]

Originally Posted by sk66

Well, the crumpler budgie doesn't work for me...almost holds as much as the velocity7...will easily hold two lenses+ odds ends. In the end I'm more comfortable w/ the Tamrac.
If you are interested I'll sell it to you for $35 shipped. It's between the 4 and 5 million dollar home in size but it has a "sling style" strap instead of "shoulder strap". Unused like new. (If not it will go on E'bay)

Why doesn't it work for you? What color is it?

I'm still in thinking mode (time for that is unpredictable), so do what works best for you.