Cool, Funky & Unique Camera Bags

My quest for the coolest camera bag.

Have you ever wondered why most camera bags are so boring? As a community, photographers are a very creative bunch. We love visual beauty, yet the majority of the camera bags available on the market are generic, uninspiring clones!

Is it too much to ask for a funky and unique camera bag? And so...the hunt begins.

Lowepro Flipside 300 Camera backpack

Camera bag with clean lines

This camera bag has a very modern look. The rear entry gives it a very clean look. Plus, when you are carrying expensive equipment, security is paramount. That's why I like the fact that this camera bag doesn't have too many zippers exposed to the world (pick-pocket protection). As a result, I feel a lot safer traveling in busy cities or on crowded public transit.

The durable water-resistant material protects camera against moisture and scratches. The waist belt detaches and the sternum strap is adjustable. The tripod holder can be hidden away when you're not carrying a compact tripod or monopod.

This model comes in three color options (that I've seen): red, blue, and black.

If it fits your needs, I highly recommend the Lowepro Flipside 300 Backpack. It looks sharp. It's convenient and light weight. And, it's made by a Lowepro (know for quality).

Wolverine BP202 Camera Backpack

Traveller's camera backpack

Made from water resistant cloth fabric this backpack reminds me a lot of National Geographic's
canvas camera bags. The Wolverine BP202
camera backpack offers a lot of room for not only your camera gear but also a 12"-15" laptop. The camera backpack is well padded and has many useful pockets. It seems like a great backpack for travel. It is even within carry-on limits for all domestic and international airlines...convenient.

Weigh: 6lbs
Product Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 10 inches

View camera bag details.

Kata KT DR-465-WP Digital Rucksack

Pretty and practical in pink

For the most part, the camera bag industry takes the same approach to color that Henry Ford took with his cars: you can have any color, as long as it's black. Luckily, Kata is helping to buck this practice with this pink camera backpack

It's efficient design lets you carry your SLR with mounted lens, 3-4 lenses, flash and a few accessories. The built-in rain cover folds neatly away into an integrated pocket.

If you've been looking for a pink camera backpack, check out the Kata KT DR-465-WP Digital Backpack

.

DCB-56 SLR Camera Holster

By Case Logic

As we all know, the perfect photo moment doesn't wait for anyone. That's why DCB-56's 1-Pull Access can be a very useful design. Unlike a backpack, this camera bag will give you quick access to your camera. This bag might be too small for some cameras, such as my Canon 20D. However, for smaller cameras such as the Rebel, this might be a sharp looking bag for you to consider.

DCB-56 SLR Camera Holster (BROWN)

Amazon Price: (as of 11/10/2009)

Jill-e Designer Camera Bags

Yes they're actually camera bags.

Although you won't find me throwing one of these bags over my shoulder, I think a lot of women would probably love to place their camera in most of the bags from the Jill-e collection.

While some bags can only carry a point-and-shoot camera, others are equipped to carry two camera bodies, a few lenses, a flash, and various accessories. These stylish bags are made from either leather and/or nylon.

Jill-e has some of the most fashionable camera bags I've seen for women. These bags are a high-quality and stylish alternative for women who had enough of the drab bags that dominate this industry.

View Jill-e collection

Naneu Pro Bravo

Rethinking the norm.

After spending a few minutes handling the backpack Naneu Pro sent me, I could quickly tell that a lot of thought and creativity went into the design. From the hidden tripod mount to the concealable camera compartment, the Bravo is unique in both aesthetics and functionality.

The Naneu Pro Bravo backpack doesn't look like a camera bag; however, it's definitely designed for photographers. The thick shoulder pads provide a comfortable fit, which is a big plus on long trips. They've addressed a lot of issues that photographers face: security, durability, accessibility, comfort...and hey, it looks cool. The olive color really brings out the sharp lines in the design. It's very pleasing on the eyes. Wearing it, I actually feel a little hipper. The bag has a nice urban-tough look to it.

The concealable SLR system is another interesting feature, which I haven't seen before. Whether it's to prevent theft or just provide extra protection from the rain, the idea is very interesting. In an unexpected way, it also makes it easier and quicker for me to access my camera. I find that when I take off a backpack, the rear of the bag is usually facing me.

From the 10 pockets of storage to the way it sits on my shoulders, everything about this bag feels right. The Bravo offers a great balance between weight and durable protection. The thick padding feels tougher than a lot of the bags I've seen, especially in this price range. The nylon skin feels thick. The zippers are robust enough to take a lot of wear and tear. Overall, it feels solid.

The Naneu Pro Bravo is the type of bag I enjoy reviewing. It looks cool and is extremely functional. That's why I'm not just going to review this camera bag. I'm going to use it.

Kata's Sensitivity V Backpack

A great example of when less is more

Sometimes you don't need loud colors to produce a visually unique camera bag. Sometimes all you need are fresh clean lines.

Kata has recently release a new ergonomic series of bags, which incorporate futuristic lines and shapes. My favorite of this series is the Sensitivity V backpack. Although the bag is entirely black, the lines and shapes incorporated into the design definitely makes it stand out from the crowd.

The Sensitivity V backpack is versatile enough to carry your camera, laptop, cellphone, iPod and anything else you can manage to squeeze in. Professional photographers might find it difficult to fit in all their accessories; however, for the average photographer there's more than enough space.

The bright interior color beautifully complements the dark exterior. On the practical side, the yellow interior makes it easier to find things inside the bag. Internal compartments can be quickly removed or rearranged to adapt to your carrying needs. If need be, the zipper divider can be undone to create one large space.

Living up to it's ergonomic name, the bag is also quite comfortable. Since the entire bag is made from Kata's soft ElastoGuard laminate material, the backpack can make a long trip a lot more bearable.

I have to say that I really appreciate the clean look of the Sensitivity V bag. It has a very futuristic look and feel to it.

Think Tank Rotation 360

Amaze your friends with what this bag can do.

Although, at first glance, the Think Tank Rotation 360°
bag looks like a stereotypical camera backpack, it is far from normal. In fact, Think Tank has quite possibly created the most innovative camera bags I've tested. The more I used the backpack Think Tank sent me, the more I realized just how much thought went into the design. This bag was definitely designed by photographers for photographers.

So what makes this camera bag unique?

The Rotation 360 lets you access the camera inside your backpack without every needing to take the bag off your shoulders. This handy little feature allows you to access your gear with extreme efficiency and speed. It gives you the freedom to carry your gear inside the protective bag without sacrificing too many unplanned photo opportunities.

This backpack also comes with camera straps necessary to mount your camera onto the shoulder straps - instead of your neck. It also has a built-in rain tarp, a rail to attach modulus components, and a hidden pocket to hold your tripod.

Dimensions: 11"W x 19.5"H x 9.5"D
Weight: 5.5 lbs

If your a serious photographer or just someone who's looking for a user-friendly bag, you should definitely check out Think Tank Rotation 360°
.

Funksion Camera Bags

When you don't want to carry 10 pounds of equipment

The premise behind Funksion camera bags is that there's no reason a camera bag shouldn't take on the role of a fashion accessory. Why can't your camera bag match your shoes? For those times when you want to go light, this compact little camera bag might just be the thing.

Carly from Funksion, was kind enough to send me a sample so that I can test drive it. Since I'm not quite the demographic for this camera bag (although more power to those men that would use it), I asked my lovely wife to take it for a test drive.

The feedback I received can be summarized in three word: cute, fun, and handy. The cute and fun are self explanatory; however, I think it's worth explaining the "handy" part. Although the bag is quite compact, it has a lot of handy pockets for things like your cell phone, keys, mp3 player, and other nicknacks. To help protect the camera, the bag is well padded.

If you're looking to bring along a point-n-shoot camera, this might be a great alternative to all the other boring option...as long as it matches your outfit.

Visit Funksion for more info.

Enter the coupon code "Squidoo" at funksion.ca to receive $5.00 off! Regular retail price is $19.99.

Excursion Series Photo Backpack by DynaTran

Don't worry guys it also comes in manly silver

Both comfortable and stylish this bag allows for maximum gear protection and storage. The DynaTran Excursion Series model AB-1629RD is a great backpack for long trips into the city or country. The rugged super-sized backpack has a spacious main compartment with double zipper pulls for easy access to a digital, photo SLR, or medium format outfit with lenses, flashes and accessories.

Visit Amvona for more info.

Crumpler Camera Bags

Finally something funky...in that good kind of way.

With a large selection of colors and size options, Crumpler bags are definitely one of the most funkiest camera bags on the market. One thing you have to be careful with some of them is the water proof factor. So if you're not planning on taking your camera into a monsoon, these bags might be worth your attention.

Crumpler THE KEYSTONE Camera Backpack (Oatmeal/Dark Brown)

Amazon Price: $215.00 (as of 11/10/2009)

Sidekick by Lomography

The Sidekick bag is designed to hold Lomographic cameras, but can easily hold a variety of other cameras. These bags come in either fine pebble-grain leather or canvas. Its 2-in-1 design - a Camera bag attached to a Large storage bag - allows you to wear both parts separately or together.

Check out the Lomography Sidekick Standard Bag

Military Ops - Echo

I'm always interested in hip, modern, and chic photography bags that do not look like camera bags! This bag definitely fits this criteria. It incorporates a military-like design with features for quick access and equipment security. These versatile bags combine essential elements like convenient access and an efficient way to transport your camera gear, notebooks and computer accessories, digital point & shoot cameras, cell phones and other devices, in order to make taking pictures while traveling a stress-free experience.
11.8L x 7.5W x 18H in

Learn more about this Naneu Pro Echo bag.

Mountainsmith Quantum Camera Back Pack

Now all I need is some cool hiking boots.

This technical daypack comes with a detachable SLR case and enough room for a days worth of gear...whatever that means. It include water resistant zippers, back panel access and a removable storm cover. To learn more about this beautiful yet rugged backpack, click the link below.

Mountainsmith Quantum Camera Backpack (Warm Grey)

Amazon Price: (as of 11/10/2009)

National Geographic

Press pass not included.

I wonder how many nature reserves you can sneak into using these bags. I have to say that I really love these bags. There's something about them that taps into my west coast lifestyle.

National Geographic NG 2475 Earth Explorer Medium Shoulder Bag

Amazon Price: Too low to display (as of 11/10/2009)

National Geographic NG 5162 Earth Explorer Medium Backpack

Amazon Price: $149.90 (as of 11/10/2009)

Kodak Fashion Camera Bag

This one is for the ladies!

Although this is not something you'd catch me caring, I thought a lady photographer could find this the perfect accessory. What I love about this camera bag is that it doesn't look like a camera bag; however, it is specially padded inside to allow you to take your camera and other personal belongings anywhere you go.
Dimensions: 12"(w) × 4.5"(H) × 10.5"(D)

Made by Kodak

Ben's Glamour

Crumpler does it again

There's no one I've found that does funky bags better than Crumpler. This company seems to put as much thought in visual beauty as they do into functionality. Well done! Finally photographers don't have to look like boring little clones!

Made by Crumpler

Lowepro Slingshot 100

I actually own this one.

Although I'm not a big fan of black bags, this one was funky enough to win me over. It's very well engineered. It even has a hidden rain coat! And, even though it hangs on your back, you can quickly swing it to the front for quick camera access. The only drawback is that it puts all of the weight on one shoulder. This design comes in 100, 200 and 300 version.

Lowepro SlingShot 100 All-Weather Digital Camera Backpack (Black)

Amazon Price: $66.23 (as of 11/10/2009)

Kata T-214 GDC Torso-Pack

Uniquely designed to keep your camera or camcorder in a quick-draw position. The torso pack enables front carrying and quick-draw without weighing on your neck. The shape of the expandable main compartment adjusts to fit your gear and can be divided into two sections. Additional large pockets will store all necessary accessories. Can be worn on its own or attached to the waistpack.

Kata T-214 GDC Torso-Pack

Amazon Price: Too low to display (as of 11/10/2009)

CompUDayPack Backpack

by Lowepro

The CompuDaypack is a lightweight backpack that has taken the basic black style and adds a little flavor. Its triple compartment design neatly manages the key components of digital photography with a rear compartment for a notebook computer (fits most 17 models) and files, and a lower compartment that accommodates a digital SLR with lens attached (up to a 105mm f/2.8), plus 2-3 additional lenses or flash units.

Size (Outside): 13.8" x 8.5" x 17.5"

Lowepro CompuDaypack Camera Bag (Burnt Orange)

Amazon Price: (as of 11/10/2009)

Tamrac Express

These bags have an upscale design with ultra suede trim perfect for a digital or film SLR. Adjustable, foam-padded dividers protect and provide a custom fit to equipment. These bags feature an adjustable, padded shoulder straps with a carrying handle for convenient carrying options.

Tamrac 3536 Express 6 Camera Bag (Khaki)

Amazon Price: $39.15 (as of 11/10/2009)

Tamrac 3548 Express Pack 8 (Khaki)

Amazon Price: $68.55 (as of 11/10/2009)

Incognito Camera Bag

by Courierware

For those of you who don't want to carry an obvious, boxy camera bag, here's a comfortable solution. This removable camera insert fits into a Super-Deluxe Courier Bag: extra small, small and medium sizes. They use resilient neoprene padding that holds its shape and doesn't sag. Two adjustable dividers for equipment, and a padded base. View more

Domke F-803 Camera Satchel Bag

Here is one more bag that doesn't scream "mug me. I have an expensive camera." If you don't want to call attention to your expensive equipment, this Domke satchel might be for you. It can hold 2 or 3 cameras, 1 or 2 extra lenses, and accessories. It's also great for business and travel items. Although it looks like a regular briefcase, it has a padded side walls and bottom to protect equipment.

Domke 701-83S F-803 Camera Satchel (Sand)

Amazon Price: Too low to display (as of 11/10/2009)

Adventure 7 Photo Backpack

by Tamrac

This modern backpack was designed for the SLR photographer with a large digital or film SLR (such as Canon's EOS 1D series or Nikon's D2 series) with a grip and lens attached, several lenses, a flash and accessories. The Adventure 7 features a youthful, modern, and sleek design that, for security, does not look like a camera bag. In this uniquely designed backpack, the lower section is a completely foam-padded camera bag compartment, while the upper section functions like a traditional backpack to hold a light jacket, lunch, or other personal items needed on your next photo adventure.

Tamrac 5547 Adventure 7 Photo Backpack (Camo/Black)

Amazon Price: (as of 11/10/2009)

Tamrac Adventure 7 Photo Backpack (Red/Black)

Amazon Price: $74.95 (as of 11/10/2009)

Kata HB-207 GDC Hiker Backpack

KATA's HB-207-T Hiker Backpack features a level of protection you haven't seen before. Plus it looks really high-tech cool! The extensive main compartment easily accommodates 2-3 Digital / SLR bodies with up to 8 lenses (up to 400 mm f/2.8) or a DV camcorder. Take a closer looks at the design. This small picture doesn't do it justice.

Kata HB-207 GDC Hiker Backpack for DSLR system or DV/HDV camcorder. (Insertrolly optional)

Kata HB-205 GDC Hiker Backpack for DSLR system or DV/HDV camcorder. (Insertrolly optional)

Lowepro Orion Trekker II Camera Backpack

Lowepro's original favorite has been updated with new aesthetics and a great new designed-for-digital features. It has two compartments that easily carry camera gear plus snacks, clothing or personal items but it is still the perfect companion for day hikes.

Lowepro Orion Trekker II Camera Backpack (Red)

Amazon Price: (as of 11/10/2009)

Kata Ergo-Tech Series Prism U Personal Gear Backpack

Even the bag is almost all black, the design is quite sharp. It's very sexy. Prism U Backpack can carry Laptop + Digicam or SLR + MP3/MP4 + PDA + Phone and accessories.

Kata Ergo-Tech Series Prism U Personal Gear Backpack for Digital Camera and 12 Inch Laptop Computer

Amazon Price: Too low to display (as of 11/10/2009)

Naneu Pro Alpha BDU Special Edition Large Military Ops Backpack

(Desert Brown)

The Alpha is a photo backpack that features a top compartment for personal gear, and a bottom compartment with a padded, customizable camera insert. Velcro holds the floor of the top compartment in place so it may be removed, along with the camera insert, to use it as a daypack without carrying photographic equipment. The Alpha also has a tripod carrying system. The shoulder straps, and the waist belt are well padded. There are 12 pockets to carry extra accessories, and there is a small compass attached.

Naneu Pro Alpha BDU Special Edition Large Military Ops Backpack with Raincover (Desert Brown)

Amazon Price: (as of 11/10/2009)

What's inside the Pro's Bag

Camera bags of the pros.

Have you ever wondered what's inside a pro's camera bag? Here are two videos that answer this question. One is a fashion photographer and the other is a paparazzi.

Katy Winn - Fashion Week Photographer's Camera Bag, Pt.1

Runtime: 7:58
43447 views
10 Comments:

Inside a Paparazzi's camera bag

4.30

Runtime: 7:05
78190 views
10 Comments:

curated content from YouTube

What do you think?

Thanks for dropping by. Hopefully I have helped you find a camera bag that is not just functional but looks great. If you liked my lens, I would be grateful if you ranked it (top of the page), dugg it, or favorited it. Also, please feel free to leave me a note about any camera bags that you'd like me to review...just make sure they're cool, funky or unique!

Lensmaster

RobertCooper wrote...

I think this is a great lens. Everyone needs the perfect bad to show off their personality. I have added you to my lens in the featured lens module. Thanks for your great lens.

Posted November 02, 2009

Lensmaster

Ben Myerson wrote

in reply to Zoe It's a Billingham 550

Posted October 18, 2009

Lensmaster

Ben Myerson wrote

You're right Billingham 550 bags ( the model in your picture ) are "cool",if you don't have to carry them any distance I have had one for more more than twenty years, there wonderful quality but when I put my cameras and lenses in it I can barely pick it up, so I don't use it very often.

Posted October 18, 2009

Lensmaster

Eddron wrote...

Since woman come in all shapes and sizes it's hard to say if either of these two bags are specifically good for woman. I personally use the Naneu Pro Bravo. It has very soft shoulder straps and back padding. According to my wife, it's very comfortable.

Posted October 09, 2009

Lensmaster

AChiklis wrote

in reply to Eddron But you didn't answer my question. How do you think a woman would like the naneu pro bravo or the wolverine BP220. Do they sit right on a woman's frame?

Posted October 06, 2009

Lensmaster

Eddron wrote...

Thank you for your help AChiklis. The Billingham Classic 550 is exactly the bag I have at the top. It is very pricey = $600!

Posted October 05, 2009

Lensmaster

AChiklis wrote

in reply to Denise The Billingham Classic 550
http://www.billingham.co.uk/acatalog/The_Classic_550_Camera_Bag.html

Posted October 03, 2009

Lensmaster

AChiklis wrote

Hey, I am a girl and I am looking for a new camera bag to take my gear to India in. The Naneu bag and the Wolverine bag both caught my interest. It seems you really like the Naneu bag, but how does it sit on a womans frame?

Posted October 03, 2009

Lensmaster

Denise wrote

Hi. What's the brand of that first picture you placed? I really like it!

Posted September 18, 2009

Lensmaster

Zoe wrote

Hiya,

Thanks a lot for sharing! It was great info!

I was wondering if you could tell me a bit more about the retro looking bag with leather straps (featured in the first photo on this page, under the heading MY QUEST FOR THE COLLEST CAMERA BAG). I absolutely adore the bag!

cheers!

Posted September 17, 2009

Lensmaster

Sadheeskumar wrote...

Dear Eddron,
Wow, This is a very good collection of camera bags. I really love few of the bags displayed in this lens. Lowepro Slingshot 100 is very good one too. You have made a Very good lens. Five stars for your hard work.

Posted September 07, 2009

Lensmaster

MelKiwi wrote

How about these bowler bags, they are a little more lively...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Acme-Made-Bowler-Navy-Camera/dp/B002GHBV9Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1252321152&sr=8-2

Posted September 07, 2009

Lensmaster

Steven wrote

Check out the coolest camera cases, hard shell, small, light weight, portable .
www.CASE-X.com

Posted July 30, 2009

Lensmaster

canonsd630 wrote...

I've been noticing the new colors! Thanks for showing them.

Posted July 11, 2009

Lensmaster

Kathy wrote

I want more information on that Kodak bag! I went to their website and found nothing. What's the style called?

Posted June 23, 2009

view all 74 comments

Cool, Funky & Unique Camera Bags

My quest for the coolest camera bag.

Lowepro Flipside 300 Camera backpack

Camera bag with clean lines

Wolverine BP202 Camera Backpack

Traveller's camera backpack

Kata KT DR-465-WP Digital Rucksack

Pretty and practical in pink

DCB-56 SLR Camera Holster

By Case Logic

Jill-e Designer Camera Bags

Yes they're actually camera bags.

Naneu Pro Bravo

Rethinking the norm.

Kata's Sensitivity V Backpack

A great example of when less is more

Think Tank Rotation 360

Amaze your friends with what this bag can do.

Funksion Camera Bags

When you don't want to carry 10 pounds of equipment

Excursion Series Photo Backpack by DynaTran

Don't worry guys it also comes in manly silver

Crumpler Camera Bags

Finally something funky...in that good kind of way.

Sidekick by Lomography

Military Ops - Echo

Mountainsmith Quantum Camera Back Pack

Now all I need is some cool hiking boots.

National Geographic

Press pass not included.

Kodak Fashion Camera Bag

This one is for the ladies!

Ben's Glamour

Crumpler does it again

Lowepro Slingshot 100

I actually own this one.

Kata T-214 GDC Torso-Pack

CompUDayPack Backpack

by Lowepro

Tamrac Express

Incognito Camera Bag

by Courierware

Domke F-803 Camera Satchel Bag

Adventure 7 Photo Backpack

by Tamrac

Kata HB-207 GDC Hiker Backpack

Lowepro Orion Trekker II Camera Backpack

Kata Ergo-Tech Series Prism U Personal Gear Backpack

Naneu Pro Alpha BDU Special Edition Large Military Ops Backpack

(Desert Brown)

What's inside the Pro's Bag

Camera bags of the pros.

What do you think?

by Eddron

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