A messenger bag is a type of shoulder bag that slings over the shoulder and is worn across the body. It typically features an ergonomically padded shoulder strap for carrying your gear in comfort, is easy to put on and take off and allows easy access with front- and top-loading openings. With many stylish options available, messenger bags are well suited to photography that requires you to be discreet or look smart for work. They are practical too, often incorporating laptop sleeves, zippered accessory pockets and waterproof fabric for protecting your gear when outside.
Where you tend to shoot will determine the design and exterior material. For air travel, check whether the bag’s dimensions comply with standard airline carry-on luggage size regulations. How much you need to carry will determine the size of the bag, it’s maximum allowed carrying weight and whether you’ll need additional pockets.
Peak Design Everyday 15
Weight: 1.2 kg | External size: 43 x 30 x 18 cm
This messenger perfectly harmonises practicality with style. The main compartment is large enough to hold a full-frame DSLR camera, two to three lenses plus accessories. A top zip provides quick access to your gear, and three origami-inspired adjustable (and removable) touch-fastening dividers tucks your gear in safely. Behind the top zip is another zip for storing a 15” laptop and a separate sleeve for a tablet or documents.
The front flap has four spring-loaded fastening points that lets the bag expand and contract to suit various loads. The zippered front access panel provides access to multiple interior slip pockets for smaller accessories like spare batteries, memory cards, passport or smartphone and features colour-coded stitching for organising your gear. In one of the dual side pockets, you’ll find a hidden key tether with an anchor link connector.
The bag has a wide, extra-long adjustable stabilising carrying strap that distributes weight across your body for commuting in comfort. It also has a top grab handle and rear trolley strap for airline travel. A built-in tripod carry feature on the top supports most tripods, and the suave charcoal exterior shell is weatherproof.
Think Tank Signature 13
Weight: 1.4 kg | External size: 37 x 26.5 x 16 cm
Available in dusty olive and slate grey, this messenger bag is ideal for deal use. It comfortably stores a DSLR camera with attached mid-range zoom lens, two to three lenses and related accessories. A front flap with clasps provides easy, one-handed access to the main compartment, and touch-fastening dividers let you tailor the protective padding to your gear. Under the front flap is a zipper for added security. The bag has dedicated compartment for a 13″ laptop, and you can store accessories in the accordion-style front pocket, dedicated phone pocket and zippered pocket with organiser.
Carry the bag using the top handle, the rear trolly strap, or wear the removable cross-body shoulder strap, which is padded with soft neoprene for added comfort. The exterior has a classic feel with soft and durable wool-like fabric, genuine leather detailing and antique-finish metal hardware. A water-repellant fabric provides some weather protection, but when it rains, simply remove the seam-sealed rain cover from its storage pouch and deploy.
Manfrotto Windsor
Weight: 930 g | External size: 33 x 42 x 15 cm
This medium messenger bag doubles as a camera or everyday bag. It holds a DSLR camera, telephoto zoom lens, and two to three additional lenses secured with padded, touch-fastening dividers. A top zipper opening provides access to equipment without having to open the magnetic buckles on the large front flap. Inside the rear of the bag is a padded, dedicated compartment for your laptop or tablet. Various exterior pockets provide storage for small items such as your wallet, cellphone and filters.
Carry the bag with the top strap or wear across your body with the adjustable, padded shoulder strap. There’s also a trolley strap on the back. For strength and durability, the bag is constructed with water repellent nylon and synthetic fabrics, highlighted by vintage styling featuring brown leather accents and beautiful Tartan lining.
Shutterbot
Weight: 1.4 kg | External size: 38 x 29 x 15 cm
Available in ice blue, stone wash and desert sand colours, this trendy messenger bag boasts a high-quality finish for the modern photographer. The main compartment holds a DSLR camera and two to three lenses, accessible via the front flap which secures with strong magnetic clips. A strong zipper closes the main compartment for added peace of mind. Secure your gear with three removable padded dividers.
Two front pockets and another two on the side allow ample storage for camera and general accessories, and a zippered pouch on the inside lets your store memory cards or batteries. A soft fabric lining on the inside keeps your gear safe from dust without scratching it. Carry using the top handle, or comfortable padded strap.
Leave A Comment