Best camera lens bags & cases according to redditors
We found 88 Reddit comments discussing the best camera lens bags & cases. We ranked the 41 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 88 Reddit comments discussing the best camera lens bags & cases. We ranked the 41 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
Hmm in looking into this, it seems that there are USB powered lens warmers on amazon.
A number of them seem to heat to 122f (50C) thus I would recommend getting some perfboard and building up a simple voltage control circuit in order to probably drop the voltage to like 3.5V, or search ebay for a USB fan speed controller (they sell for less than $1.50). Then adjust the voltage until the lens heater can maintain a temperature of probably 80-90f.
https://www.amazon.com/PROTAGE-Condensation-Prevention-Evening-Remover/dp/B073X18JND/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1535953885&sr=1-1&keywords=lens+warmer
or this
https://www.amazon.com/COOWOO-Upgraded-Warmer-Universal-Telescopes/dp/B075ZSYJ31/ref=olp_product_details?_encoding=UTF8&me=
Since they are designed for colder temperatures, pairing one of those with a USB fan speed controller, e.g., https://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-Fan-Speed-Controller-DC-4-12V-Reducing-Noise-Multi-stall-Adjustment-Governor/123314897776?hash=item1cb6240370:g:7swAAOSwtE9bdW41
May allow you to achieve just enough warming to counter the AC in the car and not overheat the lens.
Then just have the wrap loosely on the lens or under the camera, and lens,with just enough power to keep it close to the outdoor temperature.
Just curious, how old are you?
In the film days of photography, the airport X-ray machines would ghost or develop sensitive film, usually ISO 800 or above so photographers would place their film in these lead lined film bags so they wouldn't develop or ghost during the processing.
You might try out these lens pouches. They have small clips on the pouches as well as being pretty cheap option.
Seconding the Peak Designs recommendation. I have a Sony a6500, so not as heavy as your camera, but with the quick-draw clip I can hike comfortably with the a6500 on my chest-strap.
For lenses I actually take a short telephoto and wide-angle when those kinds of shots present themselves and keep them accessible as well using lens pouches on my belt.
See link below, but basically they are $11 for 4 pouches of various sizes. Felt interior and neoprene exterior for minor padding and water resistance. There are belt-loops and a draw-string enclosure. I slip the waist-strap for my pack through the belt-loop and keep a lens on each side of my hip. Obviously in bad weather I'd take it all off and put it at the top of my pack, but for nice weather it's good to have all 3 lens options open to me without taking my pack off. The solution has worked quite well, just don't trip!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XPFV5NQ/ref=s9_acsd_top_hd_bw_bE2TN_c_x_2_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_r=4VJK4D6SSVG6YEST9W9E&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=0f706148-db66-5c2c-a8f5-bee46dedc573&pf_rd_i=3346101
I liked these ones (check the images for a table of what lenses will fit in each size): https://www.amazon.com/Micro-Lens-Pouch-Thirds-Pentax/dp/B00ADN2OMG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1502377978&sr=8-6&keywords=Micro+Lens+Pouch
You can buy individual sizes as well as the multi-pack.
I use one of these wraps for the situation you describe. It’s not the ultimate in protection but has worked well for me so far.
https://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34L-19-Inch-Protective-Black/dp/B00009R88S
I currently have a $7 bag I found at goodwill that will fit my a6300 with my prime lens that I use the most perfectly, and then have a separate ApeCases for my lenses carabinered on to my cheapo bag.
However, I'm looking into one of these - expensive, but if you watch some videos on it, and compare it with other camera backpacks, I think it's warranted.
The best advice I can give you, is try all sorts of bags. I had a standard, every day, over-the-shoulder messenger bag, and made custom inserts from cardboard, and sew fabric around them. They worked really well for a long time, and it was my favorite bag. But it eventually wore out.
In addition the the inserts already mentions, there are camera wraps that are basically "padded bandanas" you may like. https://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34M-15-Inch-Protective-Wrap/dp/B00009R88S/
Fuji used to sell them themselves https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/936442-REG/fujifilm_600012620_camera_blanket_plaid.html. 15" size is perfect for an X-T1.
+1 for sticking with film, I'll be rocking my Pentax K1000 on this trip for some nostalgia shots.
Bear in mind they also Xray the luggage (or so I've always been told) and the only way to protect your film is in the film shields. I use these.
I have something like this https://www.amazon.com/Deyard-Carrying-Mavic-Remote-Controller/dp/B06XH9X7WX/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491844608&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=Mavic+case&psc=1
Then I just use my lowepro messenger bag, it's protected but still super transportable.
I'm a fan of the camera wraps. I have a zipper pocket and place the wrap in with the flap open so I can easily access it.
Try a camera wrap! They're cheap and give you the little bit of extra protection you need: http://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34L-19-Inch-Protective-Wrap/dp/B00009R88H/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1309964563&sr=8-1
I had several for carrying different 4x5 camera components around in a big unpadded bag and they were perfect for the purpose.
Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of every purchase if you shop by going to smile.amazon.com instead? Over $50,000,000 has been raised for charity - all you need to do is change the URL!
Here are your smile-ified links:
https://smile.amazon.com/Micro-Lens-Pouch-Thirds-Pentax/dp/B00ADN2OMG/ref=sr_1_6
---
^^i'm ^^a ^^friendly bot
I usually just use a domke wrap for my camera body + one prime.
I have a GoRuck GR1 that I use as my camera backpack. I have a crumpler haven pouch that I use to hold a camera/lens. Otherwise, I've recently got one of these and does an even more compact job https://www.amazon.ca/Domke-F-34L-19-Inch-Protective-Black/dp/B00009R88F/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485355884&sr=8-1&keywords=camera+wrap
I recommend the GR1 as a backpack otherwise, its highly durable, looks great without being overly tactical, but it does come with a price tag.
I actually don't utilize the velcro as much as I originally intended to. I use a few of their ammo pouches and a field pocket for organizing cables and batteries in my shooter depending on what I'm doing. I wouldn't have that flexibility with the molle though.
For my 6D with a lens attached I use a Tenba BYOB 10. I can fit a 24-70 2.8 and an 85mm 1.2 in the BYOB and it easily transfers between other bags if I need it to. You can even fit it sideways in a 10L Bullet Ruck (which is my go-to for car shows and conventions).
If I'm carrying more than 2 lenses on me, I put the rest in some neoprene lens pouches from Altura Photo. I got them on Amazon and I think there's like a dozen other companies selling the same thing.
There's nothing out there that is large enough with a velcro backing to hold the camera body with a lens attached or a large lens.
I can try to post pictures of a typical load out later but I don't have any handy at the moment.
Tenba BYOB: https://www.amazon.com/Tenba-BYOB-10-Camera-Insert/dp/B00KT7GKXK/
Pouches: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MJ3RC8E
I have the altura 3 pack of pouches, and the medium pouch comfortably fits my EM10mII with the 14-42ez pancake. I'd imagine it'd have no trouble with the slightly bigger 17mm. Granted, an actual case might serve you better for a similar price, but for $11 the 3 pack isn't bad, and the small is perfect for anything smaller than the 40-150 f/4-5.6.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N2ZM95E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_nHhQAbD442JXD
One pic with the sticks removed (my preferred option) and one with them all in for those that aren't comfortable removing
Pelican 1150
Https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000N9PQEI
Ape Case ACLC12
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009GA6CH0/
Got this Domke wrap here, 19 x 19
Domke F-34L 19-Inch Protective Wrap -Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009R88J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IfzvybHMMB364
Originally bought the Tenba 22 x 22 but found it to have lots of loose threads and it felt lower quality, though it was thicker. It barely fit in the bag I wanted to use, so I dropped down to the smaller Domke
I'm wondering if this could work as a landing / launch pad too or maybe it's too difficult of a target to hit
Would something like these be good for use in a backpack you already have? If your main concern is protecting the lenses more than organizing? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MJ3RC8E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ncFlzbEDX43ND
The koolertron from amazon, seems really nice, but there are a lot of them on amazon and measure out the inside dimensions of whatever bag you're using to ensure you get a good fitting one. I also take parts of the soft padding from my other camera bags I've collected over the years so that really gives me a custom setup.
For lenses you can also get something like this
I have a wrap for when my camera goes in my back pack (om4ti) and I keep a point and shoot in my jacket pocket. Kinda like one of these though mine is generic
https://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34L-19-Inch-Protective-Gray/dp/B00009R88P?th=1&psc=1
I use a Domke wrap
Domke F-34M 15-Inch Protective Wrap -Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009R88N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DHVzzbHRWX3MZ
>How often do you guys use telephoto lenses?
This depends on things you'd like to shoot, if you like landscape, almost never. We have a 70-200 that never leaves the house, longest I usually bring with me is a 85
>If I do end up getting one, do you think I would find scenarios where I wish I would have one?
Usually you need it for the reach, in a concert, a wedding, a zoo, trying to grab subjects you cannot otherwise get closers
>Is the SEL55210 a decent lens?
it's a good lens, personally, much like my 70-200 I never used it much.
>I'm really confused with telephoto lenses because even high-end lenses have pretty slow f stops.
the platform you bought into prefers size over lens performance, it has nothing to do if it's high end or not
>And about aperture, how do you know what aperture you should shoot at?
It depends on the look you are going for, the light that's available and the amount of things you want to be in focus (depth of field).
>I've read that most lenses lose quality beyond around f8 or f11. Is that true?
not necessarily loss of quality, but the focus of light start to break down call diffraction. It typically starts to appear in smaller apertures and only become noticeable in extremely small apertures
>Does that mean that you should never really go above that number?
A small aperture is needed if you want a larger amount of subjects in focus, or you need to reduce the amount of light entering the camera. You can also use a small aperture to give certain looks to the bokeh balls or lights. This photo here shot with the 14mm 2.8 at f22, you can see it forced everything to be in focus and gave the lights a 6 point star look
>I also noticed from my moon pictures that the most in focus one was actually at ~f5 and focus wasn't set to infinity. How does aperture and focus combine to make the moon more in focus at those settings than others? Or maybe it's user error since it was the first time I tried to use it.
On Sony E lenses, infinity is actually a few hairs below infinity focus, it's best to manually focus yourself by zooming in
>And filters.
Different folks will have different opinions on filter brands and the type of filters you should get (I only use CPL and ND, I feel that UV is a sham). But if you want to save money, buy a larger filter, like a 77mm and then purchase step down rings to use them with all your lenses
>And final question, how do you bring all of your equipment with you?
keep your camera out and with you, have the Sigma 19 on it, carry the other lenses in camera lens pouches
I carry my camera near the top of the pack, usually wrapped up in a jacket. I can put them in a light dry sack if there's concern about rain, but if I'm not sure about the weather or doing some water crossings, I'll put them in a heavier duty dry bag.
To protect them while in the dry bag, I picked up some neoprene pouches like these
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Camera-Lens-Protective-Pouches/dp/B0735BN46S
They work well protecting your lens and giving some protection from the elements, nice if you're just dropping your lenses into a shoulder bag. These pouches come with a clip and a belt loop, but I wouldn't consider putting heavier ones on my belt, there's only one row of stitching across the bottom and one blown thread might cause the lens to drop out of the pouch.
For day hikes, I use a rock climbing day pack (old BD 30L) with an insert, or a Lowepro Flipside; the Flipside is nice since it has a narrow profile and doesn't immediately scream "camera pack" like Fastpack (which I also have; it's not very comfortable, but it's good as an airline carry on since it can also carry a laptop). The main reason I use an insert or camera pack is that without any support, the camera gear tends to sink down to the bottom of the pack. Once I was in a rush and just threw the gear in a day pack, and found the lens detached from the camera; I think one of the smaller lenses must have depressed the release and the lens just worked its way loose. With inserts the lenses are kept separate, and with the neoprene pouches there's less risk of one of them bumping the release.
I have a Sirui carbon fiber monopod
https://www.amazon.com/SIRUI-P-326-Section-Carbon-Monopod/dp/B004QC6VAG
with a mini Arca-swiss compatible clamp. I've got a big CF tripod that is too much to carry on the trail... for the most part I don't bother with the monopod either. I shoot handheld, use one of my trekking poles as support. or even use two like a bipod.
I have these https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Camera-Lens-Protective-Pouches/dp/B0735BN46S/ They work well.
I use a [Domke wrap](Domke F-34L 19-Inch Protective Wrap -Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009R88F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7qgDDb0AN3ZB7). I lay the wrap on the table and put the camera in the middle, with the lens pointing to a corner. I fold up opposite corner over the camera, then the two sides to create an envelope. I leave it open, so I can slide it out easily.
And one other thing in my pouch, the hex key wrench that comes with the clip. You’ll need it for the plate that attaches to the bottom of the camera.
You should also consider the Peak Design hand strap. It works really well with the clip. It provides additional security and decrease hand fatigue. (No, I don’t work for them, but I’ll admit I do use a lot of their products.)
Suggestions for a backpack camera insert that supports a 150-600mm + dslr attached? I've found some that are the full luggage type which require you to pull out the whole insert, lay flat on the ground, then unzip the front panel to access stuff, but that seems a hassle. Ideally, I could find a padded open-top box like this (https://www.amazon.com/DSLR-Camera-Insert-Dividers-Khaki/dp/B01EUUDRU0?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_12) but taller, so just unzip backpack and yoink the camera out. My current idea is to take something like this (https://www.amazon.com/Lowepro-Lens-Case-13-Black/dp/B004KJE8H8/) and cut the top flap off. Thanks!
I used this cheap USB heater from Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/Warmer-Heater-Universal-Camera-Telescopes/dp/B075JKBN6D/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=usb%2Bdew%2Bheater&qid=1568167826&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1
That plus a portable charger USB block thing is perfect for a compact, cheap setup.
https://www.amazon.com/CamDesign-Neoprene-Equipment-Protective-Camera/dp/B072KLRR8X/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=neoprene+lens+wrap&qid=1568314069&s=gateway&sr=8-3
There are also neoprene pouches which can work. I like the flat ones as I can use them for a variety of equipment...or even to sit on wet rocks with.
I have two of these, an XL for my main camera with a battery grip and a L for my back-up camera. I use these for my lenses.
I would never trust this setup in a bag that ever leaves my immediate possession, like a checked bag at an airport. However, I've tossed these in a bag for some intense hikes and long motorcycle rides and never had an issue. I usually bring an extra shirt, socks, etc, and I wrap the camera body in the shirt for some extra protection. More often than not, I prefer not to bring a DSLR and lenses if I know things are going to be rough and just stick to the drone and GoPros.
I usually wear a black cargo pants like this with plenty of pocket room for batteries, cards and filters. (Pants are also pretty useful for crouching without being afraid of flashing people!) You can get a lens pouch like this with a strap to carry with you if you don't want to bring your bag.
The best thing I found and use is the Domke wraps like this: http://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34M-15-Inch-Protective-Wrap/dp/B00009R88S/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1462522755&sr=1-11&keywords=domke
And then, use a good backpack of my choice. I have a wrap for the camera + lens (a6000 + SEL35F18) and another smaller wrap for a second lens.
I prefer to not use camera bags, as they are too obvious for the thiefs, and also, I prefer good backpacks than camera ones. I use a Fjallraven shoulder bag, or an Osprey backpack, depending on where I am going. But in any case, they are just normal bags, so they do not attract as much attention as the camera-only bags.
https://www.amazon.com/Altura-Photo-Protective-Neoprene-Panasonic/dp/B00MJ3RC8E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510863373&sr=8-3&keywords=lens+pouch&dpID=51ZhSUFDeHL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
There's a loop for the belt to go through, or a clip for you to attach to a belt, pant loop, or carabiner. They have different colors too.
can't really go wrong with new lenses, especially if they wont add too much extra bulk to all your gear, like the 35, but you could also spend that money on extra film and/or processing. also good to maybe have a small flash handy, you never know.
i travel pretty often, usually with a ton of gear and film, i would say carrying cases and bags are most important when traveling to protect your gear, and to stay organized so you dont accidentally leave stuff behind. try not to over pack though, could just get in the way of things.
as far as protecting your film, they say as long as its slower than 800, it should be fine in the carryon xray machines. never put undeveloped film in your checkins, the xrays used for checked luggage are much stronger, and will def ruin your film. i've never really had a problem with running film through a carry on xray screening, but if you really really want to, you can ask for handscreening of your film, most tsa will oblige actually, especially if you ask nicely, not so much in other countries outside the US. as an extra precaution, i usually travel with my film in a lead lined film bag, just in case, it's also handy for making sure i have all my rolls in one place. i use this one: http://www.amazon.com/Domke-711-15B-Large-Filmguard-Black/dp/B00009USZ5/ also comes in other sizes. hope that helped somewhat.
safe travels, and happy shooting.
I have had good luck with these.
I use a large wheeled luggage bag like this one along with protective electronics wraps like these plus some ziplock freezer bags for other things.
I really like the bag inserts, but for this two week trip I had limited space so I used packing cubes and then padded lens pouches which I stuffed in between the cubes. For extra protection and to save space you can fit the lens hoods over the pouch on the mount end of your lens
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HHBR026/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_BphGzb8XX7N0Y
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MJ3RC8E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_hnhGzbRRDJ4PV
When putting my k-5 in a bigger pack, I use a domke 19" wrap . Flexible with different lenses. Not perfect but it works, is light, and gets out of the way when not in use.
Check out these: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009R88N?colid=2I2UNZ6T5IW9Q&coliid=I2VPB09TBYALT4&psc=1&ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl
As a photographer, I love these stupid things. It allows me to store camera stuff in any bag.
I find this stuff more exciting than batteries, etc.
I bought an inexpensive USB powered one on amazon for my DSLR: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B075JKBN6D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I've only used it where I had an AC-powered USB power plug but it worked fine. I guess it would be too small for a big telescope though.
Domke Wrap
I use Mountainsmith Kit Cubes http://www.rei.com/product/860245/mountainsmith-kit-cube-camera-case with an extra 1" of thick foam on the bottom (because the bottom padding sucks), and dump those in non-camera bags that are comfortable and nondescript.
I also use Domke wraps http://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34L-19-Inch-Protective-Wrap/dp/B00009R88J/ which offer a lot less protection, but are good for when I really want to go with a minimal load of gear.
Have a look at Waterfield Designs' bags http://www.sfbags.com. They're not photo bags, but they make some really nice bags.
My bags are all pretty generic and they don't scream, "Hey! I've got expensive photo gear in here!!!!" It won't stop a determined thief, but it will lower the "HEY, I'M A PRO PHOTOGRAPHER. PLEASE HASSLE ME," vibe that a lot of big cases tend to scream.
Hi, amateur hobbyist photographer here. I don't have a recommendation for a bag, but I also put my camera gear in a regular backpack instead of a camera bag.
To protect your stuff in the backpack, have a look at Domke wraps for camera bodies and Altura lens pouches for your lenses.
You mean something like this http://www.amazon.com/Altura-Photo-Protective-Neoprene-Panasonic/dp/B00MJ3RC8E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453140465&sr=8-1&keywords=protective+camera+case
I was looking at those but I have two concerns. Will it fit my camera itself? And it looks like it might add too much bulk to my bag since it has individual padding for each item instead of all one item.
Ape in Large. Mavic fits fine with front props removed. Comes with an inside case which works well for the controller. Also tried 3 Case Logic cases, this one below seems to work well.
Ape Case ACLC12 Zippered Adjustable or Attachable Large Case for Lenses (Black/Yellow)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009GA6CH0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1Xiyyb2Z89MPH
Case Logic KAC-101 Kontrast Action-Cam Case (Black)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OZLQ0BS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_jZiyybXVGMMW9
Will try to get photos in the next couple of days.
Look up camera wraps on Amazon. You can wrap the camera up so it's completely covered or you can wrap it so a part of it is open should can you pull it out and shoot. I have a few.
[camera wrap](http://www.Domke.com/ F-34L 19-Inch Protective Wrap -Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009R88F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_yLcyzbQFK5WAZ)
the film will receive more radiation on the flight itself than through three bag scanners in a row.
also, parcel post gets scanned unless shipped accordingly, AND i would very very highly recommend not to ship anything that's of personal importance from anywhere that isn't a trusted forwarder.
as in, literally, you will be absolutely completely fine to keep it in your bag. you can also put them in these safeguard bags and leave them in your checked luggage.
Water resistant
https://www.amazon.com/JJC-24-70mm-16-35mm-70-300mm-f4-5-5-6E/dp/B07312CCJ7/ref=pd_ybh_a_29?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=S9TSX4NSW7P0J05DYHGF
Somebody linked one on here last week that works by USB. When I saw this I had to order my own. It arrives tomorrow so I can’t attest to how warm it gets.
Do yourself a favor and order one of these just for reassurance. There's also a medium sized bag if you don't need the Large. I took 20 rolls of 120 to Iceland with me and still had room to spare with the large sized bag. I've heard that the X-ray will only impact 800 ISO and higher, but I picked one of these up just to be on the safe side.
https://www.amazon.com/Domke-711-15B-Large-Filmguard-Black/dp/B00009USZ5/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=domke+film+bag&qid=1568921241&s=gateway&sr=8-1
I've taken DLSRs caving using Domke Lens Wraps. Just be careful!
Unanswered question from the previous megathread
Author /u/vashette - (Permalink)
Suggestions for a backpack camera insert that supports a 150-600mm + dslr attached? I've found some that are the full luggage type which require you to pull out the whole insert, lay flat on the ground, then unzip the front panel to access stuff, but that seems a hassle. Ideally, I could find a padded open-top box like this (https://www.amazon.com/DSLR-Camera-Insert-Dividers-Khaki/dp/B01EUUDRU0?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_12) but taller, so just unzip backpack and yoink the camera out. My current idea is to take something like this (https://www.amazon.com/Lowepro-Lens-Case-13-Black/dp/B004KJE8H8/) and cut the top flap off. Thanks!
For Kayaking I'd use a cheap and reliable roll top dry bag and put a camera insert inside with some silica gel packs to absorb any moisture.
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how about something like this wrap? https://www.amazon.com/Domke-F-34L-19-Inch-Protective-Gray/dp/B00009R88H
I've never had issues with fogging and I use them whenever I fly. There are cheap ones that are really just laminated foil, and while they work they will develop cracks at the creases. I love my domke lead bag--they come in a variety of sizes: https://www.amazon.com/Domke-711-15B-Large-Filmguard-Black/dp/B00009USZ5