Support Equipment

jdh313 · Dec 31, 2013

Hello All,
So I've taken a comeback to photography and with that a new D7000 came for Christmas with a 50mm f/1.8. The bag I have now, a Tamrac 71 backpack, fits everything although a little tight. For instance, my straps are strapped (pun intended) to the outside of the bag as they don't fit. So I was hoping to get some advice/recommendations on a bag. Here is what I have:
Nikon d7000
Nikon d40
18-55
55-200
50mm
sb400 Flash
Tripod (would like ability to attach even to outside.
I would like to be able to have both cameras set with a lens on them. Also, I use the op/tech straps, so they are a bit bulky.
While on the subject of 2 cameras, any advice for using both (a telephoto on one and wide angle on the other)?
Overall I would like to stay around 100 with 150 as my max. Any photos or help would be GREAT!!!
Thank you.

robbins.photo · Dec 31, 2013

Ok, I guess I don't have a real clear understanding as to what it is your looking for, are you just wanting to purchase a backpack that will hold all your equipment and allow you to carry the tripod as well? Or are you needing a dual camera strap of some sort so you can carry both cameras? Or both?

SnappingShark · Dec 31, 2013

Promaster L500 willl carry a lot of stuff and it has a suppppppper comfortable strap.

Not quite a backback, bah hey ... it'll carry your gear.

jdh313 · Dec 31, 2013

Robbins. I guess what I'm asking for first and foremost is for a new bag. I would like something which would allow me to carry everything. The second question was more or less "Hey, I'm here, why not ask..." I have the Op/Techs so I'm not too worried, although I also was wondering if people thought different heights helped, etc.
Thank you for the quick responses.
PS. I'll consider anything, NOT just backpacks

jdh313 · Dec 31, 2013

Even just some ideas as to what brand of bags are reliable would help.

robbins.photo · Dec 31, 2013

jdh313 said:
Robbins. I guess what I'm asking for first and foremost is for a new bag. I would like something which would allow me to carry everything. The second question was more or less "Hey, I'm here, why not ask..." I have the Op/Techs so I'm not too worried, although I also was wondering if people thought different heights helped, etc.
Thank you for the quick responses.
PS. I'll consider anything, NOT just backpacks

Well for storage space backpacks will have the most, unless your wanting to step all the way up to a hard storage case of some sort. I purchased a backpack myself just recently, it hasn't arrived yet but I prefer to store my camera with the one of my zoom lenses attached, so if I get a "target of opportunity" I can pull it out and I'm ready to start shooting. The Lowepro shoulder bag I have has room for everything but only if I break it down for storage, which is why I went with a backpack.

As far as backpacks are concerned it's pretty much the sky is the limit, there are hundreds and hundreds of brands and styles to choose from. As far as reliable, well you won't find many that aren't. A backpack really isn't all that hard to construct, really the biggest difference in prices is going to be various features (such as water resistant, water proof, etc) and of course you'll generally pay more for a big brand name like Lowepro or Tamrac. Me I went with a generic, but then again I don't really plan on carrying it with me, it's more of a have everything in one bag for staging purposes sort of affair. I can grab it easily and put it in the car, then when I get to my destination take out what I need, load up my trusty utility belt and go hiking, or for a zoo walk, or whatever I need.

Then when I'm done I can put everything back in the backpack so it's all in one place again for my next outing. What I'd recommend is that if all possible you find a local camera shop and try out a few backpacks for fit and comfort if you plan on actually wearing it and using it to transport your gear.

jdh313 · Dec 31, 2013

Thank you for the explanation!!!! My backpack can store one now with lens, but not both. You have me intrigued now, Utility Belt???? I generally keep my bag in the car with everything I need around my neck.

robbins.photo · Dec 31, 2013

jdh313 said:
Thank you for the explanation!!!! My backpack can store one now with lens, but not both. You have me intrigued now, Utility Belt???? I generally keep my bag in the car with everything I need around my neck.

Well I purchased a belt (again generic but made for camera equipment) and I have a couple of Tamron M.A.S. lens cases - one that fits my 70-200 mm Sigma F/2.8 (Tamron 200 Pro) and another that fits my Nikkor 70-300 mm F/4.5-5.6 VR. Normally I'll have the sigma mounted on the camera and the Nikkor in the lens case on the belt. If I need to switch out lenses I can and store the other on the belt. I've also got a small generic bag that is on the belt as well, I use it to store cleaning stuff and a couple of CPL filters for the lenses, spare batteries or whatever else I need. That way I can carry all of the stuff I need and the only thing slung over my shoulder is the camera and lens. The weight is well distributed that way and I don't really notice that I'm carrying the extra gear.

I also have a thing that attaches to the belt that will allow me to carry a monopod or a tripod, but I really don't carry my monopod with me often so usually that ends up getting left at home - about the only time I use the monopod anymore is when I'm shooting sports.