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Cool, Funky & Unique Camera Bags

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic (by 19 people)   Your rating: 1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic

Ranked #31 in Shopping, #528 overall

Rated G. (Control what you see)

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.

Jill-e 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 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's 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: $200.00 (as of 07/25/2008)

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.

Made by Lomography

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

Made by Naneu Pro

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 Back Pack (Warm Grey)

Amazon Price: $69.30 (as of 07/25/2008)

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 07/25/2008)

National Geographic NG 5162 Earth Explorer Medium Backpack

Amazon Price: Too low to display (as of 07/25/2008)

 


New Products at National Geographic

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.

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 07/25/2008)

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 07/25/2008)

CompUDayPack Backpack GRN/BLK

Amazon Price: (as of 07/25/2008)

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: $34.25 (as of 07/25/2008)

Tamrac 3548 Express Pack 8 (Khaki)

Amazon Price: $50.34 (as of 07/25/2008)

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: $82.50 (as of 07/25/2008)

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: $67.00 (as of 07/25/2008)

Tamrac Adventure 7 Photo Backpack (Red/Black)

Amazon Price: $66.15 (as of 07/25/2008)

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.

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: $64.95 (as of 07/25/2008)

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.

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.

 


Shop the National Geographic for DVDs

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
8472 views
10 Comments:


Inside a Paparazzi's camera bag

Runtime: 7:05
14026 views
10 Comments:

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!

Saturated Monkey

I love the attachable bags. They are a little too hip for me. If I bought it I might as well buy bronstetter break dance shoes. You know. To fit in when I hip hop and break dance! (Actually I could probably pull of the bags more than the break dance shoes. I am 52 and my son is wasting my amex on breakdanceshoes.com anyways, thanks for the cool camera bags.

Posted July 09, 2008

tanyBUG

great lens, i've been searching for the perfect camera bag!

Posted June 17, 2008

flowski

Cool camera bags, very colorful and stylish yet functional!

Posted May 20, 2008

orangeleo

Cool lens and very informative!!

orangeleo =^.^=

Check out my lens about kawaii items from Korea, and my kawaii item stores at kawaiiparadise.com and orangeleosDugout.com

Posted April 23, 2008

beeobrien

So many choices. Very nice lens.

Posted April 19, 2008

YouCanCallMeDan

Awesome stuff.. need to buy one for my mom. She just bought a new Sony SLR and she would love one of these.

Posted April 02, 2008

maxy

Great lens, very informative.
Hope you take a look at my phone card lens!

Posted February 18, 2008

Nickis_Trends

Great lens. I am looking for a backpack camera case. Very informative.

Posted February 13, 2008

thomasz

Nice lens. Great info.

Posted February 13, 2008

LaraineRose

I like the Incognito bag with a brown flap. It wouldn't be hard to carry and just "flip the flap" to get it in a hurry. 5 STARS and I'm a FAN. Come to see great pictures of the Grand Canyon, USA and a lot of great pictues taken in Canada. "The frozen North?" Sprinkle a few stars if you like what you see and become a fan. You might like to PLAY THE NEW JUKEBOX too.

Posted January 30, 2008

Eddron

Hi Baghunter. I contacted someone at Naneu Pro with your feedback. They told me that this week they will be releasing, during PMA in Las Vegas, a new model that should address your needs. I'll keep you posted.

P.S. Thanks everybody for your kind words and feedback!

Posted January 28, 2008

baghunter

You've done an excellent job of reviewing the best that's available, but why can't camera bag manufacturers design a bag that works. The Naneu pro military ops would be ideal if you could get at the camera from the side, rather than having to take the whole thing off and unzip the whole bottom section. I have a lowepro that's very similar. It's okay but it's a pain in the neck to get at the camera. Why has no-one designed a sling type camera bag that let's you get at the camera, like the Lowepro Slingshot, but can take other stuff as well, like the Naneu Pro?

A plea to all camera bag manufacturers - use some imagination and think of something useful!

Posted January 28, 2008

awesomesteals2002

Lots of nice items, great lens!

Posted January 14, 2008

Suncoyote

Also found your bag page though a google search and have to say it was just what I was looking for! I just upgraded my camera and don't want to look like an obvious techie when hauling a bunch of gear. Thanks for leading me to some other options.

Posted December 25, 2007

krisManuel

cool camera bags. awesome lens. 5-stars!

Posted December 16, 2007

 
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Eddron

About Eddron

For over a decade, Ed has been trying to convince people that marketing is indeed a noble profession. He has freelanced at numerous ad agencies and honed his skills working for software startups, telecom veterans, a few websites, and even an amusement park.

Ed enjoys photography, snowboarding, and all things shiny. From his extensive watch collection to his love of cufflinks he really, really loves shiny things.

Lastly, Ed wanted you to know that he doesn't usually talk about himself in third person; however, for this bio it seemed appropriate.

You can also visit his blog at iclicknation.com

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