How to Choose an SLR Camera Bag

Keeping your SLR camera in a sturdy camera bag is essential. The bag not only protects your investment, but also makes it easier to transport your camera body, lenses, flash units and other accessories. When choosing your SLR camera bag, don't be afraid to give it a test run in the store.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Instructions:

1. Make a list of all the camera equipment you want to store. Decide if you want to include all of your equipment or just a few select items. Include room for battery chargers, batteries and media cards or rolls of film.

2. Decide where you want to shop for your SLR camera bag. Browse online camera stores for a variety of mailorder options. Visit your local camera shop to see what they have in stock. Look in photography hobbyist magazines for ads, photos and listings of retailers who will ship camera bags.

3. Traditional shoulder-strap bags are the most common. Satchel-style bags allow a main strap to cross over the torso. Waist-, hip- and fanny pack-style SLR camera bags help distribute weight over the hips. Some bags also come with rollers, which resemble luggage. Backpack-style bags are also available.

4. When testing a bag at the store, try the movable velcro inserts. Arrange them to see if you gear will fit. Decide if you like zippers, velcro, snaps and closures with straps. Adjust the straps and test all the parts for ease of function.

5. Bring your photography equipment with you to the store and ask to try out the camera bags to see if your gear will fit. Carry the bag around the store to see how much it weighs and if it is comfortable.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a label card inside your camera bag with your name, phone number, address and e-mail. If your bag is ever lost, a label card could save the day.
• Avoid bags with snap closures over the back of the SLR camera. Pushing on a snap closure may damage the LCD on digital SLR cameras.