Sydney 18 Shoulder Bag by Vanguard

A Guest Post by Valérie Jardin.

I am a photographer and I love camera bags! Most of the ones I own are quite boring looking and scream ‘pro photographer’. I carry heavy bags with lots of gear for work all week and I decided to treat myself to a smaller and lighter bag that would hold one camera and one lens when I go on casual photo walks. I was also looking for a bag that doesn’t look like a camera bag, that would give me quick access to my camera and sit comfortably on my shoulder.

I walked into the local camera store and I was pleasantly surprised to see a lot of new styles and colors. Even pink bags that look more like designer purses. Well, I am definitely not a girlie girl but I do like color!

I was immediately drawn to my favorite color among a mountain of bags on the rack: ‘olive green’! I picked up the bag and noticed its light weight right away. The bag I was holding in my hand was the Sydney 18 Shoulder Bag bag by Vanguard.

I checked to see if my camera with the 24-70 mm f/2.8 lens attached would fit comfortably inside. It did! I checked the size of the front compartment, ideal for storing an extra battery, memory cards, my car keys, cell phone, some cash and business cards. I looked at the price tag… Just under $50. Sold!

What more to say about the Sydney 18 by Vanguard? It is designed to hold one DSLR with attached lens, 2 extra lenses or 1 extra lens with 1 flash unit. It features a nicely padded customizable interior that can be removed entirely to turn it into a regular messenger bag. Its secure shoulder strap system keeps the bag in place, even when riding a bike. The long and comfortable interchangeable shoulder strap pad protects your shoulder.

The Sidney also features a quick access zipper on top of the flap to get your camera out without having to undo the front buckle. You can also easily add items to the side hanging system. Did I mention that it is light? Weighing just 1.40 lbs, you hardly know it’s there when your camera is around your neck. It is available in three sizes and two different colors: blue and olive. My only regret was not buying a larger one when I want to shoot with my 70-200 mm lens all day.

I love my new bag. I keep a camera body and lens attached in it at all times and it’s the first thing I grab whenever I go out the door! No more “I wish I had my camera with me”…

Get a price on one today at Amazon in the following colors: Olive or Blue. Also check out two larger models – the Vanguard Sydney 22 and the Vanguard Sydney 27.

Connect with Valérie Jardin at her website and on her blog.

Summary

Reviewer

Valerie Jardin

Review Date

2010-11-17