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Posts Tagged ‘Shoulder’

Think Tank Photo launches Vision shoulder bags for DSLR and mirrorless gear

14 Mar

Think Tank Photo has unveiled its new Vision series of shoulder bags, including the Vision 10, Vision 13 and Vision 15. The new line is designed to accommodate mirrorless and DSLR cameras alongside ‘pro-sized’ lenses and lens hoods, according to the company. The bags feature a padded divider system that can be customized to meet individual needs, as well as pockets for tablets and laptops.

The Vision 10 bag is the smallest of the series, offering enough interior space for a single standard-size camera body with either a short zoom or wide lens attached alongside another lens or two and a 10-inch tablet; there’s also space for a detached 24-70mm lens. Alternatively, this bag can hold a mirrorless camera kit that includes three or four lenses.

Vision 10 Insert

The Vision 13 offers a bit more space, including enough room for both a 10-inch tablet and a 13-inch laptop, as well as up to a 70-200mm detached lens. The Vision 15 offers the most space with room for a standard size camera body with an attached 24-70mm lens, up to four extra lenses, and a flash, as well as a 10-inch tablet and up to a 15-inch laptop. There’s also room for a 70-200mm detached lens.

All three bags feature exterior fabric with a water-repellent DWR coating and polyurethane underside coating, as well as YKK RC Fuse zippers, 420D velocity nylon, 350G 3D air mesh, 3-ply bonded nylon thread, 500D 2-tone polytech weave nylon tarpaulin, and antique-plated metal hardware. The bags’ interior includes a 200D liner and PU-backed Nylex liner, 3-ply bonded nylon thread, a rain cover, and removable foam dividers.

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Other features include padded non-slip shoulder straps, dedicated phone pocket, luggage handle pass-through, water bottle pocket, and a reinforced top handle.

The Vision bags are available through Think Tank Photo now at the following prices:

  • Vision 10: $ 109.75
  • Vision 13: $ 129.75
  • Vision 15: $ 139.75

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Long-term test: Domke F6 ‘Little Bit Smaller’ shoulder bag

13 Jun

Domke F-6 ‘Little Bit Smaller’ bag
$ 109 | Tiffen.com

The F-6 ‘Little Bit Smaller’ bag is a similar but more compact alternative to Domke’s iconic F-2.

Domke is among the most famous names in the pantheon of camera bag makers, and for good reason. The company makes some of the toughest and most practical bags on the market. Traditionally aimed at photojournalists, Domke’s bags are usually tough, somewhat on the heavy side, very accessible, and capable of accommodating a surprising amount of gear. I’ve been using an F-6 for about three years now, and it’s accompanied me on trips all over the world. This is my long-term test.

Key Features:

  • Weight: 740g (1.6lb) with second strap attached, including foam insert
  • Exterior dimensions: width: 11.5″ depth: 7″ height: 7.5″
  • Interior dimensions (main compartment): width: 11.25″, depth: 5.5″, height: 7″
  • One outer zipped pocket, one inner zipped pouch, one open rear pouch
  • Comes with one 4-compartment foam insert (removable)
  • Machine washable (non-Ballistic and non-RuggedWear versions only).

Design

The F-6, also known as the ‘Little Bit Smaller’ bag belongs to what Domke now calls the ‘Heritage’ range, and shares a lot of characteristics with the venerable (and a Little Bit Bigger) F-2. Most obvious are the F-6’s box-shaped main compartment and distinctive clamshell top, which is secured with two sturdy metal clips to the front of the bag. The bag isn’t really ever ‘closed’ as such (even with the clips secured, it’s still possible to slip your hand into the main compartment if you try hard enough) but this design has the advantage of allowing quick one-handed access to either end of the main compartment without fiddling with any zips.

A large front pocket is big enough for a small mirrorless or rangefinder camera, but is most useful for odds and ends like memory card wallets, snacks and spare batteries.

There are two zips on the F-6 for less often-accessed compartments: one on the large front pocket, and another one inside the top cover that secures a document pouch sewn into its underside. This pouch runs the full length of the top cover, and it’s perfect for instruction manuals, maps or a paperback book or two. Unlike the main compartment, prying fingers will struggle to find or get access to this compartment, so when I’m traveling this is usually where I’ll store my passport and wallet. I’m telling you that in confidence – please don’t spread it around.

The F-6’s main compartment is surprisingly roomy, and can comfortably fit a 2-camera, 3-lens outfit, along with extras like an iPad, and a flash or two.
With the foam insert removed, the F-6’s main compartment is basically box-shaped. The base is lightly padded, but I usually add a little extra foam padding just in case of accidents.

The F-6’s main compartment is deceptively capacious, and without the included foam inserts it can easily accommodate a full-size professional DSLR and standard zoom. That’s a lot of weight, though. Where the F-6 really shines is as a bag for smaller camera systems. With the foam insert added, I can fit two slim mirrorless or rangefinder bodies and up to three lenses inside without the F-6 feeling overloaded.

A full-height pouch on the back of the bag is large enough for a notebook, 9.7in iPad Pro, or a couple of paperbacks

Total storage space is augmented by the front pocket, which I generally use for batteries, rolls of film, memory card wallets and other odds and ends but which at a pinch could also house a small mirrorless or rangefinder camera body. A full-height pouch on the back of the bag is large enough for a notebook, 9.7in iPad Pro, or a couple of paperbacks.

While the clip-to-close design isn’t entirely secure, it has the advantage of allowing very easy access to the main compartment without needing to put the bag down.
The clips are easy to undo by feel, meaning you don’t need to take your eyes off the action to reach down and pull out a camera.

I was inspired to write this review after a recent trip back to the UK to visit family, during which the F-6 amply demonstrated its Tardis-like capacity. When I’m in transit, I tend to use the F-6 to store my most valuable and delicate gear, so that I can keep it all in one place on my lap or by my feet and I don’t have to worry about anything getting bumped around in overhead bins or baggage holds. Over the past couple of years I’ve abused my F-6 in almost every way possible, but I think my recent trip to Seattle to London was the high (or low, depending on how you look at it) point:

  • Fujifilm X100F with 28mm lens adapter (main compartment)
  • Leica M2 (body-only, tucked vertically into the foam insert)
  • Leica 35mm F2 (foam insert)
  • Leica 50mm F2 (foam insert)
  • reading glasses (foam insert)
  • Noise-cancelling headphones (sitting on top of main compartment)
  • Bag of nuts (roasted, salted, tucked alongside the headphones on the top of the main compartment)
  • Sunglasses (front pocket)
  • Memory card wallet (front pocket)
  • iPhone power adapter and 1m cable (front pocket)
  • Spare X100F battery (front pocket)
  • 4 rolls of film (front pocket)
  • Dramamine (front pocket)
  • 9.7in iPad Pro (inside Logitech keyboard case – rear pouch)
  • Paperback (Tom Collins’ ‘Another Roadside Attraction’, thanks for asking – rear pouch)
  • Passport (British – inner pouch)
  • Wallet (inner pouch)
  • Keys (inner pouch)

Clearly this is an insane amount of stuff to cram into a camera bag, but hopefully you get the point. The fact that the stitching has held up to several years of this kind of shameful abuse is also testament to the F-6’s strength and standard of construction, and I only wish I could say the same thing about my shoulder…

In use

In day to day use with a more realistic mirrorless or rangefinder kit, the F-6 is much more manageable. Of course, like all shoulder bags, it can still get pretty uncomfortable after a long day being carried around on my shoulder. The thick fabric strap is nicely textured and rubberized (so it never slips) but it’s unpadded and can dig painfully into my neck after a few hours. Alternating the bag’s position helps, and Domke also makes a dense foam shoulder pad for $ 30 which can be attached if you need a bit of extra padding. I have one and it works well, but it’s bulky and since I try not to overload my F-6 (despite what you might think from the list above) I prefer the way the bag handles without it.

Speaking of straps, the F-6 comes with a short, slim removable strap for hand-carrying the bag. It’s a nice idea, and does make the bag easier to pick up and carry if you’re traveling, but I find it gets in the way, so I relegated mine to the sock drawer – next to the shoulder pad.

A full-height pouch can be found on the rear of the F-6, which is perfect for an A4 notebook, or an iPad. This is my 9.7in iPad Pro, inside a Logitech keyboard case, pulled out diagonally for illustration.

In the years since I bought my F-6 I must have walked thousands of miles with it, but it’s held up remarkably well. The rubberized thread sewn into the strap is starting to break up in a couple of spot, the rear pouch has been buffed to a high shine against various (mostly blue, apparently) coats and jackets and there are small holes worn into its corners, but I reckon I’ll fall apart before the bag does. The more expensive F-6B (‘B’ stands for (B)allistic nylon) should theoretically hold up to the rigors of daily use even (B)etter. I should probably throw it into the washing machine at some point and re-wax the canvass but I’m not in any immediate rush.

Bottom line

Is the F-6 perfect? It is not. Although the main compartment has some padding on its base, it’s probably not enough to prevent damage to a heavy camera or lens if you drop the bag from any significant height. I’ve accessorized mine with extra padding from an old unused foam insert, and if I’m carrying a rangefinder, I usually add even more just to avoid any DIY roadside focus recalibration after a knock or fall.

If you’re outside in the wind and weather for several hours, you should expect water to make its way into the main compartment

The F-6 itself can take a fair amount of abuse, but there are limits. For one thing, it’s not particularly waterproof, even when brand new. The heavyweight waxed material does a good job of keeping light rain from getting in, but it soon gets soaked in heavier precipitation and if you’re outside in the wind and weather for several hours, you should expect water to make its way into the main compartment. Of course the older and more worn the canvass gets, the less effective it becomes at repelling moisture. On the plus side, it dries out remarkably quickly and doesn’t tend to retain dampness as long as you can air it out for a few hours.

This shot shows one of the F-6’s two main clips, which keep the top cover closed. As you can see by the chipped paint, they’ve already held up to a lot of heavy use. The downside of their sturdy metal construction is that they can scratch gear inside the bag if they’re allowed to dangle or fall into the main compartment.

I love the metal top cover clips for their sturdiness and the ease of access that they provide to the F-6’s main compartment, but because they’re metal they can (and do) scratch cameras and lenses if you let them flop into the main compartment when the cover is unsecured. Just another good reason to be strict about lens caps and protective filters.

I’ve already mentioned the included removable hand-strap – I don’t find it particularly useful, but as a keen cyclist, I wish the F-6 was compatible with a waist strap. When I’m riding my bike the F-6 flops around like mad. A waist strap would help keep it secure. It would also make me look a little bit like a bicycle messenger from the 1940s, and a little bit less like a man about to have a bicycle accident.

The final word

Despite these complaints, the F-6 is undoubtedly the most useful camera bag that I own for everyday photography. There are better options out there for large DSLR and multi-lens kits, but for day-to-day shooting with a compact system, the F-6 is hard to beat. With the foam insert removed, the F-6 is a useful bag for shopping, travel and daily use, too.

What we like:

  • Surprisingly capacious
  • Sturdy build, extra-tough stitching
  • Easy access to main compartment via clips
  • Large, secure inner pocket
  • Large, zipped front pocket
  • Well-sized rear pouch

What we don’t

  • Unpadded strap is uncomfortable when bag is fully loaded
  • Dangling clips can scratch gear if you’re not careful
  • Main compartment never entirely ‘secure’
  • Light padding on base of bag
  • Not waterproof

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Matthews unveils C-stand shoulder and roller bags

23 Nov

Getting your equipment to location shoots can be a difficult logistical task, especially when you’re also hauling lighting equipment in addition to camera gear. Carrying your C-stands could soon be a lot less unpleasant, though, thanks to the new C-stand bags from Matthews Studio Equipment.

You can choose from a shoulder bag and a roller version. The shoulder bag resembles a guitar case and can hold two assembled C-stands. It also comes with am protective internal divider, a grip handle with “easy-catch” magnet and a padded shoulder strap.

The rolling bag is a little larger and can hold three C-Stands with the legs removed. The bag rolls on high density silicon skate wheels and comes with a zippered external compartment, customizable internal dividers for storing light stands or grip accessories and twin side handles, allowing for handling of the bag by two people.

Both bags are available to pre-order now. You’ll have to invest $ 250 in the shoulder bag, while the larger roller case will set you back $ 350.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Think Tank’s new Spectral shoulder bags are inconspicuous for on-the-go photographers

25 Aug

Think Tank Photo has just debuted a new set of Spectral shoulder bags: the Spectral 8, Spectral 10, and Spectral 15. All three camera bags are designed to give photographers an inconspicuous way to carry around their camera gear, helping protect their equipment from both unsavory environmental conditions and thieves.

The bags feature a Fidlock magnetic clasp that allows users to access their camera gear with one hand and automatically locks when the flap is closed. The Spectral bags also feature an extra zippered closure that Think Tank says ‘can be tucked away when actively shooting.’

All three bags are made with 420D velocity nylon, heavy-duty nylon tarpaulin, YKK RC Fuse zippers, 350G 3D air mesh, antique plated metal hardware, and 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

All three bags contain a tablet compartment—the Spectral 8 can accommodate a tablet measuring up to 8″, while the other two can handle tablets ranging up to 10″—and a dedicated smartphone pocket. There are also straps and attachment points for a tripod, a pass-through slot for a luggage handle, internal pockets for small items like card wallets and batteries, plus a seam-sealed rain cover for protecting the bag’s contents.

In addition, the Spectral 15 model has a compartment for a laptop measuring up to 15-inches.

The Spectral 8, the smallest of the three bags, has enough room to accommodate a single standard-sized DSLR body plus a detached 24–70mm F2.8 lens, one attached short zoom or wide lens, plus a couple small lenses or one additional larger lens. The Spectral 10 is similar, although it boasts room for up to three extra lenses plus a detached 70-200mm lens and an attached 24-70mm lens. The largest of the bunch, meanwhile, can accommodate the same, but with up to four additional lenses, plus a tablet and a laptop at the same time.

All three bags are available from Think Tank now for $ 100, $ 120 and $ 140 for the Spectral 8, Spectral 10 and Spectral 10, respectively.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New gear and impressions: Peak Design’s ‘Leash’ shoulder and ‘Cuff’ wrist strap

10 Aug
The new Peak Design Cuff in the ‘ash’ color (top) and new Peak Design Leash in the ‘black on black’ color (bottom). The addition of metal hardware to both these products is a major part of the update, though I personal prefer plastic hardware because it won’t scratch my camera.

I’ve long admired Peak Design products because they offer an elegant and simple solution to the chore that is removing and replacing one’s camera strap, something I do a lot of working at DPReview.

The ‘secret sauce’ of the Peak Design system is what the company calls ‘Anchor Links,’ which are small loops of incredibly strong cord connected to a circular plastic anchor. The cord threads through a camera’s eyelet and the anchor attaches to a Peak Design shoulder or wrist strap.

The company’s Leash (camera strap) and Cuff (wrist strap) have been available for a while, but this update should offer some nice improvements to two already well-thought-out products.

What’s new

  • Both products have been re-worked for a more low profile design, and feature machine anodized aluminum hardware. The strap portion is still made out of ultra strong seatbelt-style nylon.
  • The Anchor Links have also been redesigned: The cord portion has been reduced to half the thickness for easier threading through narrow eyelets, but still holds up to 200 lbs like the older anchors. The plastic portion of the anchor is now angled for easier connecting.
  • A new aluminum anchor mount (included with leash) can be connected to a tripod socket allowing you to wear your camera more comfortably as a sling.
  • The updated Leash gains a second length adjuster. The hardware for the adjuster is now made of aluminum instead of plastic, and the adjuster has a leather strip for easy access.
  • The Cuff gains a new aluminum adjustment mechanism. There’s also a built in magnet in the leather portion of the strap for storing as a bracelet when a camera is not attached.
  • New color options: In addition to ‘black on black’, there is now an ‘ash’ color option which features tan leather accents and silver aluminum.

Impressions: the Leash

The new and improved Leash, in use. To remove the strap, simply press on the circular portion of the anchor and slide it up.

In my seven or so years writing about cameras, it brings a small tear to my eye to think about the cumulative hours spent fumbling to remove and replace camera straps. If only I’d started using Peak Design accessories sooner.

I’ve been using the updated version of the Leash for about a month now as my primary camera-reviewing strap and it’s largely been a good experience. Peak Design sent several of their new Anchor Links along with the review samples and I’ve been able to keep them on the different cameras I’ve been juggling. The Leash ships with four of these little connectors, and an additional 4 will set you back $ 20.

The old Anchor Links (left) and the newly-designed ones. Both have the same weight limit.

As mentioned above, the Anchor Links have been redesigned to play nice with narrow eyelets. Still, I ran into several occasions in which I struggled to affix them to certain cameras. Ultimately with the help of a push pin, I found success.

Back to the strap itself: I’m quite fond of the width of the Leash. Thick straps tend to get in my way and irritate my neck. And the nylon material of the Leash seems reassuringly strong.

That said, in general I found the strap too slippery. Sometimes I like to bike with a camera slung around my back. I could not do this with the Leash because my camera kept sliding forward. Simply put, the Leash could definitely benefit from some sort of grip or padding.

It’s nice to have two points of adjustment though (the previous version had one). However I can’t help but feel like the leather strip connected to the buckle – meant for easy adjustments – is over-engineered. Grabbing the buckle alone seems like an adequate method of adjusting. Furthermore, the leather strip makes loosening the strap easy, but tightening the strap is another story.

After a fair trial, I do not think I would purchase a Leash to use on my personal camera. More likely: I will consider Frankenstein-ing my current leather strap to use Peak Design’s Anchor Links and Strap Connectors for easy removable.

Impressions: the Cuff

I had less opportunity to try out the Cuff (I’ve been testing cameras too large to warrant a wrist strap), but I did spend a little time with it on a Ricoh GR as well as a Leica M6. And my impressions of it are almost entirely positive.

The leather portion of the Cuff hides a small magnet that can be moved up around. Why? So that when you are not using the Cuff, you can easily store it out of the way as a bracelet. The Cuff also features a new aluminum adjuster. It simply slides up and down, but works as intended.

When not using the Cuff, it can be folded up and worn like a bracelet. This keeps it out of the way, but at hand, until it is needed again.

One issue I did encounter while testing the Cuff is the nylon loop on the Anchor Links can feel too short, forcing you to grip the Anchor Connector along with the camera (see image below). Peak Design, if you are reading this, pretty please offer an Anchor Link with a longer cord.

I wish the cord on the Anchor Links were longer to avoid getting in the way of gripping the camera.

The Cuff may be a tad overkill for a camera as small and light as the Ricoh GR (shown above) but proved appropriate for shooting with a Leica M6 + 40mm Rokkor combo. It also looked darn nice attached to the latter.

Conclusion

Overall, as far as quick attaching strap systems go, I’ve yet to find one I like better. Both of these products are well-made and seem both reliable and durable. Though there are aspects of the Leash I still feel could be improved upon, the Cuff is one of the best-engineered and nicest-looking wrist straps I’ve used.

Overall, as far as quick attaching strap systems go, I’ve yet to find one I prefer more. Both these products are well-made and seem both reliable and durable.

The original Leash and Cuff retailed for $ 20 and $ 35 respectably. The new versions are $ 30 and $ 40. For a decent camera strap, $ 40 does not strike me as outrageous, but $ 30 for a wrist strap is certainly on the pricey side. Ultimately, I think I could justify the latter purchase, because there really isn’t any wrist strap quite like the updated Leash (especially the magnet bit). And the ‘ash’ color option sure looks fly. I’ll probably skip the Leash though.

What I like about the system:

  • Peak Design’s Anchor Links make it simple to remove and replace a strap
  • The cord portion of the Anchor Links is now narrower than before for cameras with small eyelets
  • New ‘Ash’ colorway is quite sharp-looking

What I didn’t like about the system:

  • Metal hardware on a shoulder/wrist strap can scratch your camera
  • The loop on Anchors Link is too short, gets in the way of gripping some cameras
I am not a fan of the new easy-grip strap adjusters on the Leash. They make it easy to loosen to the strap but difficult to tighten it.

What I like about the Leash:

  • Narrow strap with mostly low-profile design stays out of the way when shooting
  • Two strap adjustments points

What I didn’t like about the Leash:

  • Leash has has no grip to stop it from sliding or padding for shoulder
  • Leash quick adjusters feel over-engineered and have difficult time tightening the strap
The Cuff in ‘ash’ has a classy look.

What I like about the Cuff:

  • Movable magnet in Cuff is a nice touch, makes it easy to store wrist strap as bracelet when not in use
  • New strap adjuster is simple but effective way to tighten or loosen the Cuff

What I didn’t like about the Cuff:

  • $ 30 is a tad pricey for a wrist strap

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

07 Jun

There are certain features most people would expect to find in any camera bag, such as spacious areas for holding gear, a shoulder strap, and pockets in and around the bag for carrying smaller items like memory cards, a flash, or even car keys. Judged by those standards, the Think Tank Signature 13 Shoulder Bag excels admirably. But handing out that kind of compliment for a camera bag is like giving kudos to a car company for including seats and a steering wheel on one of their latest sedans.

Pick nearly any camera bag on the market and you’ll find options and features similar to what you might see in Think Tank’s latest creation. But evaluating a bag like this by talking about a bulleted list of features kind of misses the point. This is one case in which the whole truly is much more than the sum of its parts, and the result is a capable and refined camera bag that will suit the needs of most photographers quite well.

Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

The Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag

I have owned and used many camera bags over the years, from freebies that were included with a camera to expensive models uniquely suited to specific purposes. In my closet right now I’ve got backpack-style bags, messenger-style bags, over-the-shoulder bags, sling-style bags, and even one small little oddity whose purpose I can’t even articulate clearly. The Think Tank Signature 13 easily rests at or near the top of this relatively crowded consortium. Not necessarily because it has one single standout feature, but because it does many things so well and with a level of craftsmanship and refinement that I don’t often see especially on less expensive bags.

Design and appearance of the Think Tank Signature 13

The first thing I noticed when I got this bag, which held true for everyone to whom I showed it, is that the Signature 13 looks fantastic. Not that a nice-looking bag will help you take better photos or protect your gear, but if you value style then the Signature series is definitely worth a look. I have the Slate Gray version. It also comes in a greenish color called Dusty Olive, which I didn’t see in person although online it seemed a little too dull for my taste.

Bold leather accents and thick metal clasps made some heads turn when I brought the bag to my office. But these flourishes could also send a message to would-be camera pilferers that inside the bag is a lot of gear worth stealing. It’s not a drawback of the Signature 13 per se but is a reality of using a nice-looking camera bag. It’s also one of the reasons my father continues to keep his camera gear in what’s basically an old padded lunch sack. I do think even he would be tempted by the Signature 13 though, and it’s certainly a cut above some of the black and gray monochromatic nylon bags in my closet.

Details

Small, but significant, design touches abound, and you’re not likely to find a zipper, clasp, or velcro that isn’t a cut above what you’re used to seeing. The material from which the bag is made feels quite soft and yet surprisingly durable. My wife remarked that it felt a little bit like wool even though it’s actually a blend of nylon and polyester. In terms of overall appearance I like the way the fabric is accented with thick leather trim, hefty and durable clasps, and a generously-padded shoulder strap that distributes weight quite nicely. One of my coworkers stated that this bag would easily be suited to a professional environment such as business travel or public presentations, even though its primary function is to hold camera gear.

Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

Detail of the Think Tank Signature 13

Size

The Signature series comes in two sizes. A smaller Signature 10 is designed for mirrorless systems or those without a lot of camera gear, and the larger Signature 13 which can accommodate more equipment and even a 13″ laptop. I have the latter version which I found more than adequate for my camera kit on any given day of shooting. Although if I wanted to put all my gear inside it probably wouldn’t fit.

A bag like this is not really comparable to something like my Everyday Backpack 30L whose cavernous compartments can swallow up cameras, lenses, laptops, batteries, and a myriad of other accessories all at the same time. The Signature series takes a more measured and thoughtful approach to gear transportation. Instead of lugging everything you own, it’s ideally suited for the times when you want a bag that is small enough to hold the essentials, yet large enough that you can take what you need without having to worry about trade-offs.

Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

Practicalities of the Signature 13

In terms of regular daily usage there are lots of little details that make the Signature 13 bag pleasant to carry, with a couple of small nagging items that cast a shadow on an otherwise outstanding product.

Shoulder strap is a cut above

The main shoulder strap is, and I hope I don’t come across as overly effusive, exceedingly comfortable and ideally suited to carry a bag of this size with whatever gear you choose to put in it. Plenty of the bags in my collection seem to treat the shoulder strap as an afterthought, with basic nylon construction and perhaps a small sliding pad to keep your shoulder from hurting too much. The shoulder strap on the Signature 13 bag is almost worth the price alone, with thick luxurious (I’m serious, it’s really nice) padding running a full 20 inches throughout the length of the strap and a classy leather accent to boot. It’s a huge improvement over most other shoulder straps and makes carrying the bag an easy and pleasant experience.

There’s also a traditional handle for times when you want to grab the bag with one hand. While that isn’t generally how I use my camera bags I did find it to be sturdy and comfortable.

Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

These clasps fasten securely but I did sometimes have trouble opening them quickly.

Bag flaps

Inside the bag are other equally thoughtful considerations that are quite well suited to the needs of photographers. The main protective flap closes securely with two metal clasps on the front of the bag. They work just fine but did leave me frustrated a few times when I needed to open the bag quickly or close it without looking down.

The flap opens to reveal a front pouch with a dual-position strap to hold it shut, and an additional zipper pouch behind it for thin items like a cell phone, memory cards, shot list, etc. I did find myself fishing around in both of these front pouches a bit more than I thought I would, but it’s not really a design flaw so much as it’s a result of the pockets being so deep. There’s also a zippered top for the main storage compartment that acts as a second layer of protection if you’re a bit nervous at the thought of only using the main flap to keep your gear from tumbling out. But fortunately, this flap can be either buttoned to the top flap or tucked away altogether so it stays out of your way unless you really need it.

Signature 13 interior

The main cavity of the Signature 13 bag is, in many respects, standard fare for this type of storage device. Look inside and you will see a deep and well-padded chamber with plenty of velcro-style dividers that you can customize and reposition to your heart’s content. Some people like this style of bag and others don’t, so I can’t say whether this will specifically work for every photographer. But if you are the kind of person who likes to use velcro dividers to separate your gear then the Signature 13 will certainly work very well for you.

It’s not so much the functionality of this bag that differentiates it from others on the market, but the thoughtful construction and design choices made when creating it. One example is the quilted nature of the inner pocket and dividers which help them feel strong, sturdy, and quite durable. I found the dividers just as easy to use and reposition as any bag of this type, but they did have a more solid, confident feel than most others.

Detail inside the Signature 13

Detail inside the Signature 13

Bottom of the Signature 13

Rounding out the design of the Signature 13 is a massive leather base that extends the length of the bag and wraps about an inch up on either side as well. I don’t know if it’s because of this leather base or the sidewall construction, but I never had issues with the bag tipping over when I set it down regardless of whether it was empty or stuffed with cameras and lenses. Combine this with the nicely padded exterior and I would feel quite comfortable taking this bag on an extended trip, knowing my gear would be safe whether tossed in an overhead luggage bin or sitting among suitcases in the trunk of my car.

The Verdict

It probably sounds like I’m heaping compliments on this bag and to some extent that’s true. But I feel like praise is best given when it is well earned and that is certainly the case here. Still, I do have a few issues with the Signature 13 and would be remiss in not pointing them out for other buyers.

Con – the bag is not waterproof

For one, the bag is not entirely waterproof which could be a major drawback for some photographers who carry their gear in all kinds of weather. I do believe it would keep things dry well enough (though I must admit I am loathed to take it out in a rainstorm to test this out) but even so, the copious amounts of leather accents would likely get damaged or at least discolored in heavy amounts of rainfall. According to Think Tank the polyester/nylon shell is water resistant, so in theory, it should keep your gear safe and dry. It also comes with a collapsible nylon shell if you do find yourself caught in a downpour.

Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

The Signature 13 easily accommodates a DSLR body, 70-200 f/2.8 lens, external speedlight, and an iPad with some room to spare.

Con – clasps can be a bit clunky to use

I also think the dual front clasps are a bit impractical, and at times I found myself getting a little frustrated when trying to release or secure them in a hurry. They work just fine for what they are, but I tend to prefer magnetic or snap-based closure mechanisms that are easier to use with one hand or without looking.

Con  – large price tag

One other potential drawback is the price which, at $ 249 for the Signature 10 and $ 279 for the Signature 13, is not exactly cheap. For that price, you are certainly getting a high level of quality, but you are also paying for some of the appearance and design elements that just might not matter to some photographers. If the price is your primary consideration you might want to look elsewhere as there are certainly less expensive bags which perform most of the same functions as the Signature series. But you are also not likely to get a bag with such pleasantly pervasive flourishes and design touches.

Think Tank Signature 13 Camera Shoulder Bag Review

A sturdy leather base helps the bag sit upright whether empty or stuffed with gear.

Overall I have found the Think Tank Signature 13 Shoulder Bag to be outstanding and a fine addition to my carrying collection. It’s not revolutionary in any one single way, but it takes the concept of a shoulder-style bag with velcro dividers and enhances it to a level of refinement and craftsmanship that I don’t see in a lot of other bags. If you’re the kind of photographer who likes this type of bag, I heartily recommend the Think Tank Signature 13.

Rating (out of five stars)

  • Design: 5
  • Ease of Use: 4.5
  • Comfort: 5
  • Durability: 4.5
  • Functionality: 5
  • Overall: 4.5/5

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Think Tank launches Signature series of soft shoulder bags

11 Feb

Camera bag manufacturer Think Tank has announced a new range of shoulder bags designed to look good as well as protect your equipment. The company says its new Signature range is made from a polyester/nylon blend that feels as soft as fine wool even though it has a water repellent coating.

The bags come in two sizes and are aimed at those with smaller interchangeable lens system bodies rather than full-blown DSLR kits. Think Tank says the bags are suitable for one body and three to four lenses, while the larger of the bags, the 13, can also accommodate a 13″ laptop.

The straps of the bags are made from leather while metal clasps keep it fastened shut. A waterproofing layer coats the base of the bags to protect them when they are placed on wet surfaces.

The Think Tank Signature 10 and 13 bags cost $ 249 and $ 279 and will be available in Slate Gray or Dusty Olive. For more information see the Think Tank website.

Manufacturer information

Signature Series

The Signature Series from Think Tank is a modernized version of the classic shoulder bag. Whether you are a young urban professional or corporate photographer, the Signature shoulder bag is as fashionable as it is functional. Hand sewn advanced fabrics blend weather protection and durability with the classic feel of fine wool.
Genuine leather detailing and metal hardware adds character and stands up to the rigors of a photographer’s daily use.

KEY FEATURES

  • Modern wool-like fabric that is soft to the touch and stands-up to everyday use
  • Full-grain leather bottom and detailing, plus antique finished metal hardware
  • Zippered flap provides full closure and security to the main compartment, or tucks away when not in use
  • Dedicated laptop/tablet compartment: Signature 13 fits a 13” laptop

Additional Features

  • Secure clasps on front flap with one handed operation
  • Soft look and feel with clothing-safe materials and design
  • Dedicated phone pocket fits up to an iPhone 6s+ or S7 Edge
  • Wide handle pass-through for attaching to rolling luggage
  • Large front pocket for an extra strobe, rain cover or small book
  • Long, cushioned neoprene shoulder pad positions easily when worn cross-body
  • Zippered front pocket provides security for small items and includes a built-in organizer for pens and business cards
  • Quilted velex dividers can be customized to fit your gear
  • Shorter dividers can be made into shelves to stack shorter lenses and primes
  • Dividers and bottom foam can be removed for a completely collapsible bag
  • Although the bag’s outer fabric is treated with water resistant coating, a seam-sealed rain cover is included for downpour conditions

What Fits
1 standard-size DSLR with mid-range zoom attached plus 2–3 additional lenses
13” laptop fits inside a dedicated compartment

Specifications
Internal Dimensions:
13.3” W x 9.1” H x 5.1” D (34 x 23 x 13 cm)
Exterior Dimensions:
14.6” W x 10.4” H x 6.3” D (37 x 26.5 x 16 cm)
Laptop/Tablet Pocket:
13” W x 9.1” H x 1.2” D (33 x 23 x 3 cm)
Weight:
3.1 lbs. (1.4 kg)

Materials
Exterior:
Durable water-repellant (DWR) coating
Polyurethane coating
240D wool-like 195G nylon/poly blend
Full-grain leather
YKK® RC Fuse (abrasion-resistant) zippers
Antique-plated metal hardware
550D polyspun
Nylon seatbelt webbing
Neoprene
3-ply bonded nylon thread

Interior:
High-density closed cell foam dividers
210D silver-toned nylon lining
Polyurethane backed velex liner & dividers
2x polyurethane coated nylon 210T seam-sealed rain cover
Nylon binding
3-ply bonded nylon thread

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Review: The Think Tank Lily Deanne Mezzo Shoulder Bag

27 Apr

It’s finally happening; camera bag manufacturers are making bags for women that attempt to be fashionable. There have been lame versions in the past that included ill-fitted straps, unfashionable fabrics, and impractical designs. But how about a new bag from Think Tank?

I have zero to no fashion sense, and even less when it comes to women’s accessories. The good news is I have friends who actually care about good looking bags and one in particular, Genevieve Hathaway, agreed to take a look at the Think Tank Lily Deanne Mezzo Shoulder Bag for me.

LilyDeanne_3

I recently had the opportunity to put the new Think Tank Lily Deanne Mezzo shoulder bag through its paces on a few different kinds of photo shoots – from photographing a full day conference to a portrait shoots, to a day on the move chasing an athlete up and down the stairways in Seattle. The Lily Deanne Mezzo not only kept up with me, but it made my shoots even easier because of how well it performed.

The Think Tank Lily Deanne women’s shoulder bag line is designed by two of the photography industry’s most respected members, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Deanne Fitzmaurice and Lily Fisher, Think Tank’s senior camera bag designer. They designed the Lily Deanne series to be the ideal camera shoulder bag for women photographers, and that’s exactly how I would describe this bag.

Design

My first reaction to this bag was how it looked. It looks professional, classy, and functional, yet is understated. When I’m on assignment carrying a lot of gear, whether on a shoot in Seattle or in Egypt, I want to look professional but not have a bag that screams, “look at me, I’m a photographer.” Deanne’s background as a photojournalist shines through in this bag’s design, both in its discretion, but also in its functionality.

LilyDeanne_5

Using the Lily Deanne Mezzo bag, I immediately felt that this was a bag designed by a working photographer. From the wide zipper opening, to the flap which can be thrown over the top and latched with magnetic fasteners, to all the pockets and organizational units, to the slit in the back which lets you slide it over the bars of a roller bag – this bag met all my functional needs without any unnecessary bells and whistles. The level of attention to small details, and high quality craftsmanship makes this a beautiful bag to look at. The bag is a mix of strong nylon and supple full-grain Dakota leather flaps, pockets, and accents. The interior of the bag and exterior accents are a beautiful Robin’s egg blue, making this a stylish bag.

The Lily Deanne shoulder bag comes in two colors, Chestnut Brown and Black Licorice, and three sizes, Lucido (small-size), Mezzo (medium-size) and Tutto (largest-size). This bag was designed with plenty of room for pro-size lenses, no matter whether you shoot Canon, Nikon, Fuji, Sony, Olympus or any other line of camera.

LilyDeanne_2

The large zipper opening allows for quick and easy access of your gear. The top flap folds back completely to give full access to the interior of the bag. Or, it can be flipped forward to cover the main opening, it attaches to the front with rare earth magnets. The shoulder strap is well padded, with non-slip gripping. The success of any great shoulder bag hinges on the shoulder strap. Carrying a lot of gear around all day, I need a shoulder strap that is strong, does not slip, and is well padded. The Lily Deanne bags deliver with one of the most comfortable shoulder straps I’ve used. The bag has a lot of pockets (some zippered, some covered by magnet flaps), which really helps keep your accessories organized. The sides of the bag have expandable pouches to hold odds and ends, water bottles, or sunglasses.

LilyDeanne_1

Sizes and Specs

Lucido (small): Holds one standard DSLR with one to three lenses, or a complete mirrorless camera system (and three to four lenses). There is also room for an 8-inch tablet.

Mezzo (medium): Holds one standard DSLR with a mid-range zoom attached and two to three additional lenses, or a complete Mirrorless camera system (and three to four lenses). There is room for a 10 inch tablet or 11 inch laptop.

Tutto (large): Holds one standard DSLR and additional grip with a mid-range zoom lens attached, and two to five additional lenses, as well as 2 flashes, or one standard DSLR with a 70-200mm f/2.8 and two to five lenses in its main compartment and two flashes. It can fit a complete mirrorless camera system and 4 to 5 lenses. It also holds a 15-inch laptop.

In the Field

The Lily Deanne Mezzo is a great bag for lady photographers no matter what kind of job you’re on – event, editorial, commercial, photojournalist, wedding, or portrait shoot. Short of needing a backpack camera bag to carry a lot of gear over a long distance; this shoulder bag will handle pretty much any other type of scenario.

LilyDeanne_4

I shoot with the Fuji professional line and was able to easily fit in the bag: the Fujifilm XT-1, 18-55mm lens, 23mm f/1.4 lens, 10-22mm f/4 lens, and 50-140mm f/2.8 lens, along with a flash, and all my accessories. I still had room to fit an additional small prime lens.

Using this bag, it was very easy to access all my gear. I loved all the organizational pockets, which eliminated the need to hunt around for batteries, lens clothes, my phone, business cards and extra memory. The top flap is a great feature which allows you to keep the large zipper open, but cover your gear with the flap. The magnets keep the flap secure, while also allowing for very quick access to gear in time sensitive situations.

The shoulder strap is incredibly well designed, well-padded, and doesn’t slip around. While testing this bag on a 10 hour photoshoot of a conference, carrying all my lenses (which includes one mid-range zoom) and a flash setup, the bag did start to make my shoulder and neck sore toward the end of the shoot. But any shoulder bag, full of heavy camera gear, would have given the same result.

Conclusion

The Think Tank Lily Deanne shoulder bags are one of the best women’s bags I’ve used, arguably the best shoulder bag I’ve found. It balances understated elegance with functionality and comfort. I highly recommend this bag for women photographers looking for a great shoulder bag.

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Think Tank launches Lily Deanne series of shoulder bags for female photographers

24 Oct

Think Tank has launched the Lily Deanne, its first series of photo bags designed specifically with women in mind. The shoulder bag is available in three sizes, each designed to accommodate pro-sized camera bodies and lenses. Read more

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Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30 Shoulder Camera Bag Review

02 Aug

Packing and carrying equipment for travel adventures is always a challenge. With increasing airline restrictions and not being willing to check your gear, you need to find the best possible alternative for your needs. Like most of my peers, I covet several bags. Usually when going abroad I take a bag with all the equipment and a smaller, second bag for everyday outings once on location. As I tend to travel lighter and lighter every day, I was on the lookout for a bag that could serve dual purposes for my recent Italy trip. I wanted a bag that could carry my two Fuji X bodies, some lenses, a filter kit, and my iPad. The other important consideration was that the bag needed to be easy to access and work from.

Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30 - Image Courtesy of Think Tank Photo

Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30 – Image Courtesy of Think Tank Photo

After much looking around, I settled on the Think Tank Sub Urban Disguise 30. As you may know, Think Tank products are legendary and they carry their well-known “non-rhetoric warranty.” This bag is one from their compact series, designed for small kits. There are four different models and the 30 is the biggest of them all, the one that features a separated iPad compartment.

The bag is constructed of high-quality ballistic polyester, treated for water resistance. It features YKK® zippers, stretch pockets on the sides, two-ply bonded nylon thread, and a removable shoulder strap. The interior comes with removable dividers and a rain cover that fits in the main outside pocket.

Besides the main compartment, the Sub Urban Disguise 30 has multiple pockets. There is a front organizer pocket on the front flap that can accommodate personal items. Under the main flap, there is a large pocket that is roomy enough to store bigger accessories, like battery chargers, cables, or perhaps a travel book. There is also a mesh pocket inside the main flap for smaller accessories. The exterior stretch side pockets can fit a bottle of water or a flash.

Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30 Details - Images Courtesy of Think Tank Photo

Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30 Details – Images Courtesy of Think Tank Photo

The bag dimensions are:

  • Exterior: 12” x 10” x 7.3” ((W x H x D)
  • Interior: 11” x 9.5” x 5” (W x H x D)
  • iPad pocket: 10.7” x 8.5” x .8” (W x H x D)

According to Think Tank, this bag can fit a standard-size DSRL, two to four zoom lenses, a regular iPad, and a 70-200 f/2.8 lens unattached. As I am shooting mirrorless, my use was a little different, and I was able to fit two Fujifilm X-T1 bodies with lenses attached, three separate lenses, a full-size filter kit, the iPad, and accessories, and I had room to spare.

Lower Section Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30

My kit bottom layer  contains Fujinon XF 55-200 mm f/3.5-4.8, Fujinon XF 23mm f/1.4 and Rokinon 8mm f/2.8 fisheye for Fuji X mount.

Lower Section Think Tank Photo Sub Urban Disguise 30

My kit upper layer contains Fujifilm X-T1 body with Fujinon XF 10-24mm f4.0 lens attached, Fujifilm X-T1 body with Fujinon XF 16-55 f/2.8 attached and on there is a complete Lee Filter kit with 3 ND grads and 2 NDs. (Photo taken with iPhone)

As you can see, I loaded mine by layering the interior in two tiers. I placed lenses on the bottom of the bag, which I separated from the top with the provided dividers, and then placed both camera bodies on top for easy access. On the side I had the filter kit. As explained above, one of the things that I was looking for was to have easy access to the gear, and this way I had both bodies with the most used lenses within very easy access. The bag is very comfortable to wear as the shoulder strap is solid but very well padded.

One of the best things about this bag is the way it opens. There is a flip-top lid that folds away from your body, and that really helps you to reach the camera fast. This top lid is zippered and totally separated from the main Velcro exterior flap that accesses the bigger pocket. In the end, the bag was everything that I expected, so I will continue to use it on future trips, especially the ones around cities with lots of walking, and where I need quick access to the cameras, to take a shot and put it away again.

Obviously, how much you can fit in the bag will depend on the type of configuration you use and how you divide the bag internally, but if you want something relatively light for urban walks or travel, this is really a very good option. If you don’t need to carry a tablet, you can also consider this bag’s smaller siblings with three more models to choose from. There is probably one that will suit you well. The price for this bag starts at $ 49.75 and this particular model is $ 84.75, a price that I believe is more than reasonable for all these features and quality.

 

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