favorite bag that doesn't scream photographer

greylensman · Dec 5, 2011

Think Tank Retro 10 (for Canon EOS 1 and 24-70mm f2.8L) and Think Tank Retro 5 for rangefinder and a couple of lenses. Both in Pinestone

CGW · Dec 5, 2011

I've got several Domkes(F2b+F1Xb)but often use an old worn black canvas F2 without the bottom insert so it collapses a bit. Easy to find these on eBay for cheap.

CD55 · Dec 5, 2011

http://www.rei.com/product/797873/rei-lunch-cooler

I use both a old diaper bag and an REI lunch bag like the one in the above link. The lunch bag is large enough to fit my Bronica ETRS w/speedgrip and an extra film back. Nicely cushioned also so everything is protected.

I also use an old diaper bag backpack as it is covered by padding for keeping things cool and is waterproof. I like that the diaper change padding to lay a baby on a table is stored on the side facing your back for extra comfort. The pocket inside the bag for a milk bottle now can be used for a lens or a flash. Best part was that it was free since my kids are bigger now.

rpsawin · Dec 5, 2011

Mine says "Safeway" on it...lol

Bob

jscott · Dec 5, 2011

I use a canvas bag by Tilley Endurables that was a gift many years ago. Strong, understated, well made, just the right size for two Rolleis, accessories, & film. I don't see the same model in the current catalog. Damn expensive stuff but damn good too.

winger · Dec 5, 2011

MattKing said:
I have a diaper bag converted to photographic use that I use sometimes.

I'm not sure what it screams

I have yet to find a diaper bag that's exactly what I need. Maybe I should try the diaper bags for cameras and vice versa.

I do have a cooler bag that's perfect for my Hasselblad - it's exactly the right size and shape.
I also have a small purple teddy bear stuffie dangling from my LowePro bag. No one's stolen it so far - maybe the bear makes people think it's not a camera bag (I usually put the bear over the logo when I leave it in the car).

EASmithV · Dec 6, 2011

MattKing said:
I have a diaper bag converted to photographic use that I use sometimes.

I'm not sure what it screams

The camera inside... It screams "Help me, somebody"

benjiboy · Dec 6, 2011

winger said:
I have yet to find a diaper bag that's exactly what I need. Maybe I should try the diaper bags for cameras and vice versa.

I do have a cooler bag that's perfect for my Hasselblad - it's exactly the right size and shape.
I also have a small purple teddy bear stuffie dangling from my LowePro bag. No one's stolen it so far - maybe the bear makes people think it's not a camera bag (I usually put the bear over the logo when I leave it in the car).

Make sure you don't get the diaper bags mixed up then Bethe, it could result in a very smelly accident

michaelbsc · Dec 6, 2011

Tony Egan said:
Only a few of us can pull it off...

I remember several years ago, before the TSA appeared and became aggressive, back in the days when the airlines checked you as you entered at the gates, I was boarding with my brief case, my computer bag, and my "man-bag" on my side. A woman was in front of me, and one was behind me.

The attendant stopped me, and announced that I was allowed only two carry on items. I calmly announced, loud enough for everyone around to hear, that this was my purse.

Both women burst out laughing, and the attendant, completely dumbfounded, said nothing as I continued on.

Today I'd probably go to jail for that.

Miskuss · Dec 6, 2011

I still use a green canvas military bag that dates back to WWII or before. Picked it up after the local Hercules Army Surplus burnt down when I was kid. Got lots of other great stuff like helmets and bayonets too. A fire sale you might say. But thats another story It will easily hold a 35mm or medium format with a spare lens. Great bag when less is more. But usually I use a black Domke that is like an comfy old pair of jeans now. The Domke bag is bomb proof. It's my favourite all around bag. Also a great unassuming bag is the Urban Disguise from Think Tank. Ballistic Nylon Fabric / YKK RC-Fuse Zippers and a pocket for a lap top. Function and style from ThinkTank. I fly with this bag, but for everyday use it's the Domke.

flatulent1 · Dec 6, 2011

I have assorted Domkes and Billinghams that do little more than hold gear at home. I use a Filson Field Bag with a Tenba Wedding Insert for a lot of my wanderings. I also use a Filson small Carry-on bag, with Zing pouches to pad the gear. Sometimes I grab a Dockers airline carry on bag, which is a bit wider than the messenger types; I also put the gear in Zing pouches.

MattKing · Dec 7, 2011

MattKing said:
I have a diaper bag converted to photographic use that I use sometimes.

I'm not sure what it screams

This current model is the closest to the bag I have. Mine doesn't have a "star" - it is just black on the side.

http://shop.ju-ju-be.com/Limited-Be-Unique-Be-PID11493-10BU01A.aspx

And yes, I bought it used, after researching the fact that it is completely washable.

I think I paid $15.00 at our local thrift shop.

With a strap on Lowepro lens case and just a little bit of padding it holds an RB67, an extra lens or two, a hand meter, an extra back, some film and a few extra small accessories.

Or less, if I don't want it that heavy

greybeard · Dec 7, 2011

I've been known to put a medium-format outfit in a canvas tool bag, the kind with pockets all around the outside. For disinformation, I carry gym socks, a toothbrush and paste, deodorant and a sweatband in the pockets. To keep it up-to-date, I suppose I should add a bottle of "vitamin water" and one of those concentrated energy bars (half-eaten).

If anything, this setup screams in agony from muscle cramps....

Mainecoonmaniac · Dec 8, 2011

Here's a cheap place to buy bags. You'd have to modify them, but they definitely don't look like a camera bag.
http://www.armysurplusworld.com/display.asp?DepartmentID=84

Klainmeister · Dec 8, 2011

I've been using a few army surplus bags for years and always enjoyed the idea that if anyone wants to steal something, that ragged old looking canvas probably wont be their first choice.

benjiboy · Dec 17, 2011

Whatever type of bag you use once you get a camera out of it's a dead give away what it contains, it's also no good having an "inconspicuous" bag and walking around with a camera round your neck, I carry mine in my hand with a wrist strap attached, and I keep it down by my side.

favorite bag that doesn't scream photographer

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