Cool, Funky & Unique Camera Bags

Over the years the standard for what's unique has increased. Crumpler was in my opinion partly responsible for this recent serge in creativity within the camera bag industry. What I love about Crumpler bags are the rich colour combinations and the clean design. So how does Crumpler's 5-Million Dollar Home bag stacks up against a recent waive of cool, unique, and funky camera bags?

Pros
1. Quality material and stitching.
2. Wide shoulder strap.
3. The Olive color bag is quite striking. Unfortunately the black version (which they sent me) makes the bag look ordinary.
4. Good layout with customizable compartments.
5. Velcro keeps the bag securely closed while offering quick access.

Cons
1. The strap doesn't come with a non-slip shoulder pad. As a result the bag kept slipping from my shoulder.
2. Black version looks boring.

Worth hanging on your shoulder?
Although I can't say that Crumpler is still on the forefront of innovative camera bag design, the 5 Million Dollar Home is an attractive and quite functional bag. The olive version is a beautiful example of what camera bags should look like. I would recommend this bag; however, I would love to see a shoulder pad incorporated into the design.

Interested? Learn more about this camera bag.

The Built Cargo bag is constructed with protective semi-firm eva and neoprene and comes in some funky colors and patterns. The inside compartments are fully customizable with padded dividers. Although this bag might not match everybody's taste, it's definitely a refreshing addition to the camera bag market. The large version of this bag can hold your SLR camera and various accessories.

Check out the details about this Camera Bag

The Haven camera bag is an interesting idea. Instead of purchasing yet another expensive bag, the Haven allows you to utilize any of your existing bags. Need something for a rainy day? Throw it into your camping backpack. Need to look professional? Throw it into your briefcase. That's the brilliant thing about this carrying case. It keeps your camera equipment safe and gives you the flexibility of choosing what you actually put on your shoulder. As with all Crumpler bags, the Haven is well build.

Pros
1. Not expensive.
2. Quality material and construction.
3. Versatile design allows you to transfer the camera to the appropriate type of bag (weather, occasion, etc)

Con
1.Could use a small handle or a strap option (this is a very small con).

Worth hanging on your shoulder?
Although you can't technically hang this on your shoulder, it provides a unique alternative to expensive camera bags. If you're on a budget or just want the versatility of the Haven, this camera bag it worth a look. Details

What the Kelly Boy Bag has that most other camera bags don't is elegance...for a lack of a better word. Most camera bags on the market are made from nylon material that at best looks like a fancy gym or diaper bag. The Boy Bag's design and material makes it look more like a cool brief case, rather than a bag you would take hiking.

What I like about the bag are the many pockets, customizable compartments, and the padded shoulder strap. The magnetic closers provide a way to quickly access your equipment (relative to zippers). What I didn't like about the bag is the material and sawing quality. The material felt a little cheap and the sawing was a bit off at times (pockets were slightly a different shape). However, if you could look past these two things, it's a pretty solid bag. I have to say that I enjoyed using it. It's a very convenient camera bag.

Learn more about this Camera Bag
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If you're looking for versatility and style, this camera bag might do the trick. Don't let the black color fool you. The is a cool, funky and unique camera bag. The design is full of stylish detail, accents and features. Even though the bag is black, Kata managed to load it with visual cues that are unique and playful.

After using this bag for a couple of weeks, I can tell you that its versatility is very appealing. The sling configuration (right or left handed option) is perfect for quick-draw action in situations when you need frequent access to your camera. On longer outings or while traveling to your destination the backpack configuration provides a comfortable way to travel. This versatility makes the 3N1 extremely user friendly. It adapts to your needs. The more I used this bag, the more I fell in love with it.

It comes in three sizes and has an optional laptop pocket. In the 3N1-22, I was able to comfortably fit my Canon 5D, 50mm, 17-105mm, 70-300mm, flash, filters, and numerous accessories.

For more information and reviews, click here.

Similar to Naneu's Pro Bravo backpack I reviewed earlier (see below), it's obvious that a lot of thought went into the usability and construction of the Sahara 115F camera bag.

After I customized the orange compartment panels, the bag was able to easily accept all of my photography equipment. The bag is designed to fit a pro DSLR with up to a 6 1/2" lens attached, plus 3-4 additional lenses, a flash, accessories, and a laptop. Once everything was organized, I had quick access to all of my equipment and accessories. The Naneu Sahara 115F has a pocket for everything!

As far as looks go, I like the combination of the green water-resistant Kodra material and the black stripes. The orange belly of the removable camera insert (which is heavily padded) provides a nice pop to the bag. The metal buckles at the front of the bag also provide a nice visual accent. My only critique is that I wish they made the buckles a bit more sturdier.

Overall, the Sahara 115F is an impressive camera bag. View more details regarding the Naneu Sahara 115F.

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Designed by a photographer for photographers, these bags are both elegant and functional. At first glance you would never guess that these are actually camera bags.

The other thing that's worth noting are all the available colors (7 in total). The pink and gray bags that Kelly Moore sent me to review are stunning. The pink is elegant and vibrant. The gray bag has a touch of purple in it to give it some warmth.

The quality with which these bags were constructed is commendable. The stitching, accents, and internal and external material give this camera bag a solid and luxurious feel.

The velcro dividers allow you to customize the bag to your equipment needs. The well padded camera bag has also replaced zippers with magnet snaps to give you extremely quick access to your equipment.

If you are looking for a quality feminine camera bag, you should definitely give Kelly Moore bags some consideration. These fashionable sophisticated bags are not bulky and would go well with any outfit...even a dress.

Learn more about the Kelly Moore camera bags.

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).

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.

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

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.

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.

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. The downside to all these extras is that this camera bag is a bit on the heavy side.

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°
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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.

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.

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

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.

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

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