We compare six of the most popular camera backpacks on the market: the Wandrd Prvke, the Peak Design Travel Backpack, the Shimoda Explore, the Manfrotto Manhattan Mover, the CosySpeed PhotoHiker and the Atlas Athlete.
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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Review Tamrac Anvil Pro Series Backpacks
Camera backpacks are abused, and I mean seriously mistreated.
We need them to be tough; want them to be comfortable; need them to be light; we want them to be dependable; want them to handle heavy loads (often worth thousands), we need them to offer security; we want them to adapt, and, we want to forget they’re there, and we don’t want them to complain.
It seems, on the surface, this is a rather one-sided relationship. But, in fact, it can be a rather nice love affair.
Ok, that’s a tad mushy, I know! The point is, camera backpacks are some of the hardest working bags in the world. When you need the shot, and the light is fading, they are dumped to one side, no matter what the surface, with zips ripped open. The last thing any of us think about is the poor backpack. And, that’s the way it should be. That’s the whole point. Their role is that of the consistently reliable silent partner.
After owning numerous backpacks over the years and always disappointed with their performance, I had a chance encounter with an old friend three years ago. They steered me in the direction of Tamrac, and more specifically, their range of six pro backpacks known as ‘Anvil.’
Side View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack with Accessories. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Now, I had heard of Tamrac because I also own an older style Gura Gear bag. But I hadn’t realized just how influential they have been in camera backpack development over the last 40 years. A bunch of outdoor enthusiasts established the company in Southern California in 1977. They had a mission to design products that could withstand the day-to-day challenges of photographers in the world’s most testing and demanding environments and conditions. They stuck to that conviction and they continue to innovate and enhance – based on customer reviews they are getting.
Tamrac has sized the Anvil to fit us, and our gear. Whether we shoot pro-DSLR with battery grip, have a big fast glass or have been enlightened by the mirror-less movement. With six sizes, multiple heights and depths, any set-ups have an Anvil to suit.
I decided to invest in the ‘Anvil 23,’ as it is appropriate to my particular set of requirements. That said, all six Anvils are designed and built alike, with capacity being the only real difference.
Front/Side View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Now, when it comes to handing over hard-earned cash for a backpack, I have some basic criteria to meet. Albeit, I would have to take a punt based on existing customer reviews and previous experience. Three years on, and I can now add my own real-world experience to this set of standards.
Backpacks need to be fully customizable and to adapt with you as your gear evolves.
The Anvil has certainly delivered on this front. It features a large main padded compartment designed to protect and carry multiple pro-sized DSLR bodies with lenses attached. Along with a full range of lenses, flashes, and accessories.
Compartment View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Top Compartment View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve reconfigured the internal compartment over the years to cater for my varying needs!
While keeping my bag light is extremely important, there is also the need for it to stand up to some serious long-term abuse.
Anvil backpacks utilize over ten different optimized foams for the perfect balance of weight and protection. The fabric used is ‘Cordura 500D’ with a PU coating. It is super-rugged and has excellent abrasion resistance. It’s also incredibly strong with outstanding tear strength and water repellent capabilities.
My Anvil 23 is now three years old. Although it shows signs of use (extreme abuse) and its showroom shine has gone, everything is still in working order. There’s no evidence to suggest material degradation.
Of course, when your backpack is dragged down a wet pebble beach by a German Shepherd, it has to be tough, right?
Photo © Andrew Sproule
Wider, flexible waist-straps and shoulder straps are a must to ensure I can manage all my gear comfortably over long periods of time.
Furthermore, I transit through plenty of airports each year and climb many a mountain. The Anvil’s comfortable airflow harness and removable belt system (which you can use independently) has made any amount of gear easy to carry.
I’ve also been able to fit the Anvil in the overhead compartment of most commercial aircraft, but please check with your own carrier’s carry-on restrictions.
Back View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Belt View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Back Belt View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Due to the fact that I work predominately outdoors, there are few things worse than missing a shot because I couldn’t get access to my gear on time.
Except for the Anvil Super 25 (designed to carry up to an 800mm lens or up to a 500mm attached to a pro DSLR), all Anvils have a handy front padded pocket that holds most 15” laptops. There are also many other exterior pockets for carrying accessories. These are where I tend to keep memory cards, phone, etc.
Front View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack with Tripod (not included). Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Front Open View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
Dust is my camera’s enemy.
I lead worldwide wildlife photo safaris to some extremely inhospitable places, and dust can be a constant concern. Past backpacks I’ve used have been dust magnets, especially ones with air-mesh type materials.
Thankfully, the Tamrac Anvil Pro Series Backpacks are completely seam-sealed and have a weather protective rain fly. Both have been critical components in my gear’s welfare.
Rain Fly View of Anvil Pro Series Backpack. Photo courtesy of Tamrac ®
As I’m sure you can tell by now, I’m a big fan of the Tamrac Anvil Pro backpack. That’s down to the fact that it has delivered against my set of expectations and requirements. So, it’s certainly not the cheapest backpack on the market, with prices ranging from around $ 170 – $ 270 (approx. £130 – £210). Although, if I had to choose a backpack again, I would most certainly go for an Anvil.
The post Review Tamrac Anvil Pro Series Backpacks appeared first on Digital Photography School.
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Voltaic has launched two new backpacks on Kickstarter, the Array and Offgrid. Both models feature integrated solar panels and removable batteries that charge when the bag is in sunlight. The Offgrid model is the smaller of the two, featuring a 6W solar panel and a 4,000mAh battery, while the Array has a larger 10W solar panel and a 19,800mAh battery. Both batteries can be removed and charged using a wall outlet, as well.
The Array model includes Voltaic’s V72 Universal Laptop Battery with selectable 12V, 16V, and 19V options for charging ordinary laptops. It also has a USB port for charging USB devices. The battery takes 12 hours to charge via solar or 4 hours to charge from a wall outlet, and it is suitable for charging a DSLR camera between 3 and 6.5 times, a tablet 2.5 to 3 times, a drone one time, a laptop up to 1.7 times, or a smartphone between 4.5 and 8 times.
The Offgrid bag model is for less demanding devices, featuring a V15 Universal USB Battery with a 5V/1A output. This battery takes 4.5 hours to charge in the sun or 4 hours to charge from USB, and it can recharge a DSLR between 0.7 and 1.5 times. If that’s not substantial enough, however, Voltaic also offers a V44 12,000mAh battery upgrade, enabling it to charge a DSLR between 2 and 4.5 times.
In addition to the solar panel and battery, both models feature easy access channels for the wires, a padded sleeve for a tablet or laptop, space for a camera and lenses, an attachment for carrying a tripod, and external carry straps for attaching other things (such as a sleeping pad) to the bag. The bags are waterproof and described as ‘rugged.’
Voltaic is seeking funding for the bags on Kickstarter, where it offers the Offgrid as an early bird unit for pledges $ 119 or higher, and an early bird Array for pledges of $ 219 or more. The company anticipates the early bird models shipping to backers this December, while non-early bird models are estimated to start shipping in March 2017.
Via: Kickstarter
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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The original Brevite backpack was the outcome of a 2015 Kickstarter campaign. Now the Boston, MA based company has launched two new models that, like the first backpack, feature a design that doesn’t scream ‘camera bag,’ and therefore doesn’t advertise your expensive gear to potential thieves.
Both the new Rucksack and the Rolltop feature Brevite’s removable and padded camera gear compartment that can be swapped between Brevite bags and holds up to a full-frame DSLR with attached lens, an extra 70-200mm zoom lens, one additional smaller lens and various accessories. The packs also come with a hideaway rain cover and a 15″ laptop sleeve. They offer multiple access points to your equipment and a lens cap buckle that holds your cap when shooting. The Rucksack will be available for $ 165 and the Rolltop will set you back $ 185, but there is a 20% discount on preorders before the mid-September shipment date. More information is available on the Brevite website.
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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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Mindshift Gear has given the Moose Peterson backpack range an update with new design elements and materials, according to the California-based company. The bags now feature tuck-away belts and harnesses, stronger seams and shoulder straps as well as new zipper pulls that make it easier to open and close the compartments when wearing gloves. The three bags each retain the original ‘Moose Ear’ automatically closing flaps that help to keep dust out of the main sections of the bags, but now the bags are slightly larger to take accomodate bigger modern DSLR cameras.
The bags each hold three DSLR bodies with attached lenses, with the MP-1 V2.0 being the larger model that’s suitable for very long lenses, and the MP-7 V2.0 is the smaller, but still capable of holding a 70-200mm type lens on one of the bodies. The MP-1 V2.0 is priced at $ 349.99, the MP-3 V2.0 is $ 279.99 and the MP-7 V2.0 is $ 199.99.
For more information visit the Mindshift Gear website.
Press release:
SANTA ROSA, CALIF. – Working in partnership with renowned wildlife photographer Moose Peterson, MindShift Gear has updated the three classic Moose Peterson backpacks. Initially designed for wildlife and safari photographers, the backpacks feature a three-compartment layout that helps protect their gear from the elements.
The Moose Pack series is available in three sizes: MP-1, MP-5 and the smallest, the MP-7. The backpacks can carry up to three DSLR camera bodies with telephoto lenses attached—up to 600mm f/4. This strategy enables photographers to be ready to capture wildlife at any distance without changing lenses or exposing the sensor to the elements.
The backpacks also feature the same innovative “Moose Ear” flaps that close automatically, protecting camera gear from dust and debris common in wildlife photography. And because nature photographers often travel to remote locations, the packs are designed to meet airline carry on requirements, and even fit in the overhead compartment of the smallest regional jets.
Moose Peterson is a recognized Nikon USA Ambassador, Lexar Elite Photographer, recipient of the John Muir Conservation Award, and Research Associate with the Endangered Species Recovery Program. He also shares his knowledge through writing, being published in over 143 magazines worldwide, authoring 28 books including Photographic FUNdementals and Taking Flight and Captured, and lecturing across the country to thousands of photographers. As one of the original Nikon shooters to receive the D1 in 1999, Moose became the first wildlife photographer to shoot strictly digital.
“Moose Peterson backpacks are renowned for serving the needs of traveling photographers,” said Doug Murdoch, Think Tank Photo’s CEO and lead designer. “It has been a joy collaborating with him on bringing these classic designs back to the marketplace. While their design and materials have been enhanced, the designs of all three backpacks retain Moose’s original vision.”
KEY FEATURES
GEAR CAPACITY
Moose Peterson MP-7 V2.0
Moose Peterson MP-3 V2.0
Moose Peterson MP-1 V2.0
MATERIALS
Exterior: For superior water resistance, all exterior fabric has a durable water-repellant coating, plus the underside of the fabric has a polyurethane coating. The backpacks also feature highest-quality abrasion-resistant YKK® RC-Fuse zippers, 420D velocity nylon, 600D polyester, 1680D ballistic nylon, 320G DuraStretch mesh, nylon webbing, 350G airmesh, nylon webbing, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
Interior: high-density velex, 210D silver-toned nylon lining, hexa mesh pockets, high-density closed-cell foam, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Moose Peterson MP-7 V2.0
External Dimensions: 15” W x 15.5” H x 8” D (38.1 x 39.4 x 20.3 cm)
Large Camera Compartment: 5.3” W x 14” H x 6.5” D (13.5 x 35.5 x 16.5 cm)
Small Camera Compartments (each): 5” W x 6.3” H x 6.5” D (12.5 x 16 x 16.5 cm)
Weight: 2.5–3.3 lbs. (1.1–1.5 kg) (Lower weight excludes all dividers and accessories)
Moose Peterson MP-3 V2.0
External Dimensions: 14” W x 20” H x 8” D (35.5 x 50.8 x 20.3 c m)
Large Camera Compartment: 6.8” W x 18” H x 6.8” D (17.3 x 46 x 17.3 cm)
Small Camera Compartments (each): 6” W x 8.5” H x 6.8” D (15 x 21.5 x 17.3 cm)
Weight: 3.2–4.6 lbs. (1.5–2.1 kg) (Lower weight excludes all dividers and accessories)
Moose Peterson MP-1 V2.0
External Dimensions: 14” W x 23” H x 8” D (35.5 x 58.4 x 20.3 c m)
Large Camera Compartment: 6.8” W x 21.8” H x 6.8” D (17.3 x 55. 4 x 17.3 cm)
Small Camera Compartments (each): 6” W x 10” H x 6.75” D (15 x 25 x 17 cm)
Weight: 3.7–5.1 lbs. (1.7–2.3 kg) (Lower weight excludes all dividers and accessories)
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
[ By Steph in Gadgets & Geekery & Technology. ]
Not all pigeons are rats with wings. Some of them actually strap on tiny backpacks and go to their jobs every day, just like the rest of us. In fact, a flock of pigeons in London play a central role in monitoring the air pollution in the city, their little black fashion accessories equipped with lightweight sensors that test the levels of nitrogen dioxide and ozone gases, reporting the results on Twitter. Londoners who tweet their locations to @PigeonAir get an instant response from one of the pigeons with the level of air pollution in their area.
Paris-based tech company Plume Labs developed an app that gives residents access to information and advice about pollution in the city, and an interactive live map on the project’s website provides more neighborhood-specific details. A well-known pigeon expert named Brian Woodhouse provided a flock of racing pigeons, which are healthier and hardier than street pigeons, for the mission.
The project was only in action for three days during March, and the pigeons are now taking a break, but the novelty of the miniature backpacks got thousands of city residents talking about air pollution, which kills nearly 9,500 Londoners each year. Now, Plume Labs has turned to human Londoners for assistance, asking them to wear their own sensors to crowdsource detailed readings of air pollution in virtually every corner of the city.
You have to admit, no matter what you think of the pesky birds, the sight of those tiny mesh suits on tiny hangers labeled with each pigeon’s name are ridiculously cute.
In the trash-ridden outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, precariously lofted structures rise up on stilts, home to birds that, come sunset, are set loose as the strange …
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What would your city look like if it went completely dark? Words like majestic, awe-inspiring and magical come to mind – not as descriptions for the …
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Some of London’s most iconic landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to Piccadilly Circus, are dramatically transformed by climate change in this digital art series.
Click Here to Read More »»
[ By Steph in Gadgets & Geekery & Technology. ]
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Bag manufacturer Tamrac has introduced a pair of water resistant backpacks designed for ‘hiking and outdoor’ photographers. The two Hoodoo bags are made with waxed canvas and PU-coated nylon that’s intended to keep out the rain, and they come in a choice of Kiwi green, pumpkin orange and ocean blue.
There are two versions; the Hoodoo 18 and the Hoodoo 20. The 20 is the larger and comprises two separate compartments and a removable camera module that has its own strap for carrying over a shoulder. The camera module has room for a small DSLR with a few extra lenses, while the upper part of the bag can be used for clothes and features a slot for a 15in laptop.
The Hoodoo 18 is suitable for a DSLR and a pair of lenses, and again the camera module is removable. The camera’s Goblin pouch fits into the upper compartment, while the front of the bag is for other items and a 13in laptop.
The Hoodoo 18 costs $ 79.95/£89.99 and the Hoodoo 20 $ 129.95/£130. For more information see the Tamrac website.
Press release:
Designed for adventure, the new series of backpacks take you and your camera anywhere you want to go.
Made from water resistant waxed canvas and PU coated, lightweight ripstop nylon, Tamrac Hoodoo packs feature comfortable harnesses and high-grade components. Available in 2 sizes and three vibrant colours, the Hoodoo series is destined to be your go to camera bag for hiking and outdoor use.
The Hoodoo18 is designed for carrying compact DSLR cameras or mirrorless systems plus a lens or two. Tuck your camera and extra lens into a Tamrac Goblin pouch and then pop them in the Hoodoo 18’s upper padded compartment, your personal gear in the main compartment and up to a 13” laptop in the laptop sleeve and you are ready for the day’s adventure.
Larger than the 18 model, the Hoodoo 20 is actually 3 packs in one: a fully protective camera backpack, stand alone camera shoulder bag or stylish day pack.
As a camera backpack, the Hoodoo 20 has easy access through the front of the pack to grab your camera. The fully protective camera module carries compact DSLRs and mirror-less camera systems with extra lenses. The top portion of the bag carries personal items as well as most 15″ laptops in it’s own protective sleeve. Or take out the protective camera module and use as a shoulder bag with included shoulder strap. The included dividers are fully customizable to adapt to your camera gear.
Both models are available in 3 colours: Kiwi green, Pumpkin orange and Ocean blue.
Suggested retail prices as follows:
Tamrac Hoodoo 18 £89.99 inc VAT
Tamrac Hoodoo 20 £130.00 inc VAT
Both bags are available immediately.
www.tamrac.co.uk
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Lowepro has introduced the Whistler and Photo Sport II backpacks, designed to keep gear safe in the great outdoors. The Whistler is a new series built for alpine adventures, while the Photo Sport II updates a popular rugged design. Read more
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Think Tank Photo has launched two new bags, the Trifecta 10 DSLR Backpack and Trifecta 8 Mirrorless Backpack. Both backpacks are designed to hold a photographer’s ‘workhorse’ lenses, including ultra-wide, mid-range, and telephoto zoom lenses. As the names indicate, the bags are designed to accommodate DSLR and mirrorless systems. Read more
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
Bag manufacturer Lowepro has introduced a pair of new backpacks to its Fastpack range, with added weather-proofing and a compartment for a laptop or tablet. The Fastpack BP 150 AW ll and BP 250 AW ll are basically the same bag in two sizes, and each is divided into three sections that allow storage of camera equipment as well as other everyday items for photographers on the move. Read more
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
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