The Best Camera Backpack - Custom-build your own!

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Hi everyone! Do you remember Photographer's Friday? I feel it is such a long time since I have shared some tips and inspiration when it comes to photo equipment and techniques så here it comes.
Also If you didn't watch my latest vlog, I definitely recommend it: • I Missed a Great Oppor...
In this video about choosing the best camera backpack I am sharing the experiences I have gained during my many years as a professional wildlife photographer. I am going through pros and cons so that it is easier for you to pickup or custom-build your own.
The backpacks in the video are:
Lowepro Pro Trekker 650 AW - The bag I use the most of the Lowepro bags.
Lowepro Pro Trekker 600 AW - The grey one where you can not repair the clips.
Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II - The old black one - one of the first big bags I got.
Lowepro Super Trekker AW II - The very big one.
f-stop Shinn - the biggest of the f-stop bags
f-stop Sukha - just a bit smaller but not good for my 600 mm.
Norrøna Recon para ranger 120 L -
Bergans Powerframe 130 L
Savotta - Jääkäri XL - www.savotta.fi/products/jaaka...
See you out there...
All the best
Morten Hilmer
► SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE
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✦ WHO I AM.
My name is Morten Hilmer and I am a professional nature and wildlife photographer.
I am a Nikon Ambassador and I work as an ILCP photographer.
Nature conservation is very close to my heart.
I have served in the Danish military special unit, the Sirius Patrol, for two years which has given me the skills and confidence to operate alone in the arctic regions.
☊ MUSIC
Walking in Forests - Ben Winwood

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Опубликовано:

9 июл 2022

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Комментарии : 365

@mjdrareg 2 года назад

the only person I could watch discuss backpacks for 40 minutes.

@simonheereman1616 2 года назад

And … we did

@MGMKT 2 года назад

You are right, we did.

@jeremias.lindner 2 года назад

Totally agree with you

@TheKratlusker 2 года назад

It’s funny… For the past week I’ve been looking for a new backpack that could fit my camera gear and other supplies for outdoor trips - and I just couldn’t find any “camerabags” that could hold up to the quality of a good outdoor backpack. The exact same problem you’re describing here. Such a coincident that you would make a video about that exact problem - thank you!

@lukassinger_photo 2 года назад

I actually love these Videos because you‘re the only person who I truly believe not to be influenced by sponsorships etc. and you‘re also the only person I could listen to talk about backpacks even so I’m not looking for one for over 40 minutes, so just thank you for all that.

@MortenHilmer 2 года назад

Thanks a lot Lukas. I really appreciate 👍

@michaelpaulphotoworks5392 Год назад

I've been saying it for years. Camera specific backpacks are about perceived function and looks instead of raw carrying comfort and pure field usage utility. I gave up years ago thinking any of the manufacturers would offer something that bailed on the "cool" factor for prioritizing function. I use hiking bags and have "made my own" based on comfort and use needs and have been much happier and less frustrated. It's nice to know I'm not the only one whose had these experiences and feelings.

@Andy_Thomas 2 года назад

After looking at camera backpacks, I also came to the conclusion that it's better to buy a dedicated backpack that suits your needs and is comfortable, and then just get some general purpose padded liners to fit inside it. Much cheaper, more flexible and all round better solution.

@Byrkster 6 месяцев назад

I was thinking the same thing. I have spent so much time looking for the best "camera bag" when I have the backpack I enjoy... This video was great.

@ravineelakantan6417 Год назад

Transparency with Goodness, simplicity blended with experience , knowledge ripened with Humility...this man is truly a legend of sorts...wonderful video ....thanks for sharing.

@rauberdaniel 2 года назад

Thank you for your insights and experience about backpacks! Appreciate the honesty and that you’re not trying to sell something.

@michalsiarek Год назад

You may want to check Mystery Ranch with overload feature and with full zip-off front. Overload is great for atypical load, like peli case - or another pack, a saw or a carcass. Newer model is upgraded with better hip belt with molle, easier frontal access (previously you'd need to open more side compression straps). They added a waterproof double-lid as option. What I miss are expandable side pockets like in fjallraven kajka. But, it's not as big as norrona and bergans. 80L isn't as spacious. There are ways around with super-long lid and overload though. I.e. with tent you can fold everything flat into overload part. Similarly with sleeping bag, folded inside waterproof bivi. It's a matter of different habits in packing. One advantage is you can remove the bag from frame (like in firefighter frame) and either use the lid as small backpack or fit huge side pockets onto it (norrona-style). No pulk loop in the belt, needs a modification. One heck of a pack.

@greggorter 2 года назад

Outstanding advice Morten, your honesty and straight forward approach to this subject is great 👍 thank you 🙏🏿

@Izizizhus 2 года назад

Thank you Morton for such detailed insights. I love it. It’s very inspiring thinking out of the box from the commercial offers. Improve the versatility. The best is as always with Morton, the honesty. I just love the down to earth comments. No tricks ever.

@PinetreeLine 2 года назад

Great stuff Morten! I love thinking outside the box. Thanks brother! Doug 🇨🇦

@asher05 2 года назад

I haven't seen the entire video yet and i can already tell it is going to be good

@SnoopySenpai Год назад

I love these videos! Very helpful for beginning wildlife photographers!

@BrianNorthmorePhotography 2 года назад

Morgen I totally agree with you. I have had a number of bags, but the most comfortable packs I have ever carried have been designed for hiking not photography. I think comfort and carrying ability are far more important than anything else. I now use a Mammut 50ltr with a ICU from an old pack, saved loads of money and it’s very comfortable, when I can I may by a 30ltr for shorter trips, maybe after watching your video that will be a military pack. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

@patricksmith2553 2 года назад

To each their own, I prefer Gura Gear 35L or ThinkTank Airport Accelerator, Lowepro Lens Trekker AW II/III for just my flagship D6 and 500mm FL.

@francoissavioz1531 Год назад

Same for me: an old Mammut Trion Pro 50 + ICU F-Stop.👌🏻access to the photo gear is identical to the F-Stop bags

@BrianNorthmorePhotography Год назад

@@francoissavioz1531 Im now looking at the smaller Trion I think maybe its the 30 or 35 so I can have smaller pack for shorter hikes when I don’t need so much outdoor gear.

@TomMasonPhoto 2 года назад

Hey Morten, Great bag video and so many thoughts that are similar to my own, having experienced many many many camera bags and other bags, only a few ever hit the spot for what I need. Lowepro do some internal divider ICU units however they are mostly the smaller size for max a 300mm 2.8 etc, but I hope we will see more of these soon, the F stop stuff I agree seems overpriced for what is largely a slightly padded cube! Great video with some top class take homes...I might have to talk people through some of the...maybe 30+ bags I have, because there is certainly value for the community here! As well as the designers watching!

@hungrybearphotography 2 года назад

I'm pretty satisfied with my bags but Morten, i really can watch every video from you just talking about whatever you want because you are such a calming dude. really love your videos and work. and can't wait for your upcoming (gear) videos :)

@KGi4 Год назад

i have the same issue with photo backpacks, so i got separate ICU and put in hiking backpack with front big zipper from Gregory. So i can easily access gear from top rather digging from buttom through all my stuff. I am happy with this combination, so i can understand your struggle, Morten :)

@davidt2230 2 года назад

Great video! Thanks for speaking up for small businesses.

@nazarrizaldielias1189 2 года назад

I love when he said stay to the camera 🤣🤣. That sincere feel whenever you share about anything it give me a nice feeling

@MikeJamesMedia 2 года назад

Thank you, Morten! Your advice is always practical and based on the experience of really being "out in it". That's hugely valuable. )

@andysharmanphotography 2 года назад

Another great video Morten and I love your openess and honesty. I fully agree about the importance of trying bags on before buying them as it's also really important to make sure the bag is correctly fitted. A good sales assistant at a physical shop should have the knowledge to make sure it's fitted and adjusted properly, as a top quality bag fitted poorly will feel really uncomfortable. Thanks Morten.

@laku4412 2 года назад

That's some very interesting thoughts! I'm not entirely happy with my bags either, so thank you so much for the inspiration!

@jeroengieskes2 2 года назад

So recognizable, I went for the eberlestock model halftrack. Full front opening, big side pockets, great carry system and it does fit in the carry-on lockers on the plane. 👍

@CookedLight 2 года назад

Superb points and logic. I made my own, a Thule Stir hiking backpack and a messenger bag padded insert that I cut seams and re-sewed to work vertically, carries my 200-500, two other lenses, camera with another lens sits on top, then there are pockets for batteries, memory card cases etc

@haroldhobbs1184 2 года назад

Another great video Morten really interesting

@J5388T 2 года назад

An excellent video thanks Morten and I totally agree with your comments about a lot of photographic backpacks attracting premium prices which are not reflected in the finished product!

@mableannelliott5392 Год назад

Thank you for all of the experienced advice.

@JeffMaron-gi6rd Год назад

Thank you so much for your review of different bags! I absolutely agree with you Morten regarding your assessment of photo bags. I currently use an expedition backpack and insert 2 smaller photo backpacks inside it for longer trips. If I just go for a quick trip I remove the 2 photo backpacks and clip them together as one. Comfort, camera access and capacity is what I look for in a pack. Again, thank you so much for your views on different packs. When I need a new pack I will definitely be looking at your suggestions.

@Rob.1340 2 года назад

Thank you. Lots of good advice to think on. All the very best. 👍📷😎

@p.cowart7286 11 месяцев назад

I bought one of the LowPro bags because of watching your videos. Perfect for me. Thanks!

@ryanackland9330 2 года назад

Hey Morten, I miss your Photographers Friday, but I understand that you can't do everything. A great informative video with lots of helpful tips. I would love you to share with us your trips from this year and the up and coming ones that you are going on. Take care and keep up the fantastic work you are doing.

@H_Oscarsson 2 года назад

I have the Savotta Jääkari L and I love it! Haven't used it that much for photography yet, but I don't think I will ever go back to photography backpacks. The outdoor/hiking or military backpacks are more thought threw and are easier to customize after my needs.

@AliasJimWirth 2 года назад

A fine video with some really good advice. I try to shop my local camera stores, too. I too do not want to see them disappear. I value the in person information and help you can't get remotely, and as you say, you can see the items and try them out to get the right one for you. Thank you.

@fenlandwildlifeclips 2 года назад

I muddle along with a second hand lowepro it's not perfect but it does the job. Mine is very similar to your lilac bag. Fantastic advice to shop local. Good for you.

@marvinspates924 2 года назад

Thank you my friend for your excellent experiences with backpacks! Great food for thought!👍👍👍

@marvinspates924 2 года назад

I think you are a scam my friend! Morten would not send a message like this!!!🤔🤔🤔

@oleg-dobrokhotov 2 года назад

Hi Morten! I totally agree with your message, "find good quality staff that suits your needs." However, the problem I often had (and still sometimes have) is that when you are a newbie, you don't know your needs and end up buying something based on someone else's experience. To make wise choices, one first needs to gain wisdom. So thank you for a lovely video where I can learn from your knowledge and hopefully make fewer mistakes))

@pascalthiebaud 2 года назад

Oh yes we got the point, thanks for all these advices.

@ericbaardman1651 Год назад

Thanks Morten for your tips. With these tips I ended up with a Fstop Cine ICU and a Tasmanian Tiger Mill Ops 80+24. I put the ICU upside down in the bag and in that way I have good front access. I normally used the Lowepro bags you started with and I had the same issues as you with them regarding the carrying system and the stress on the neck and shoulder muscles.

@tobiasbuschbacher3242 2 года назад

Dear Morten. What a great video! I came up with the same ideas some time ago. I sold my photography backpacks and bought a Patagonia Cragsmith 45L. It is very good quality, and together with a cheap ICU from Amazon it makes a super photo bag for day trips with the big lens or, with a smaller ICU for traveling. For Hiking I gave up to hope for Photography companys to make a good pack. I have a Exped Thunder 70, witch also opens up at the front. It is made for hiking and can take a Camera - perfekt!

@nforester Год назад

Nice video Morten. I almost did the same thing, but switched not to "military", but hiking backpacks (osprey). Feels much more comfortable and cheaper too.

@MaxWildlifePhotographer 2 года назад

I would love to watch you pack up your loadout into the bags. Adding the bushcraft element into a camera bag is fascinating to me.

@gallgallj.a.vernesvernes33 2 года назад

I love the interesting video about the backpack’s. You take the time to tell the in’s and out’s of all the backpack’s and that’s great info. I self have the lowepro 450AW and i love it, but that’s what’s all about the person. Gr. Jan

@jhonnybakkenphotography 2 года назад

Thanks for your excellent video, I'm so happy to hear you talk about making your own backpack, or adapting outdoor backpacks for your own needs. Ever since I started on my photography journey in 2020, don't have so many years of experience as you, but still, I've dreamed of a professional photo back. Due to the extremely high prices it's still a dream, but a fading one. I knew I wanted a opening in the back, and I wanted a kind of frame. in addition to my camera gear I also wanted to bring some food, and extra clothing. I've ended up adapting a mountain hike backpack from Mammut. I manage to try it on in a local sport outlet so i know it would fit my back. It's just 30 liter, as I don't have as big lenses as you, and so far just one camera. This backpack rig costed me about 1600 Nkr, and that includes a cheap ICU I found here in Norway, an affordable price compared to my other choices. So far it's been amazing, no problem and no breakdown so reasonably durable I would say. I found spare locks I can mount in the field, always carry some spare ones in my backpack, but so far none of the original have broken. So if anyone are looking for a camera backpack, but feel they are a bit pricey, dot' be afraid to take a look in your local outdoor outlet. The knowledge and help you can get there can save you from a lot of pain and disappointments later. And beside, a camera backpack are a much more tempting subject for thieves, as we all know they contains expensive gear. Who want to steal some smelly sock , some used underwear or your leftovers from your last camp fire? It's not advisable to tell everyone what you have in your backpack.

@steviebye1 Год назад

Don't worry Morten, you're never boring. Great video, thanks. I have been looking for a new bag as my equipment has grown.

@salomekruger4176 2 года назад

Thank you for your very good advice. There are so many things one needs to consider before buying a photobag that will not suit your body and needs in the end.

@Batt_Nadia_adventure 2 года назад

Hi Morten! Thanks a lot for your advices about the backpacks!!

@katharinemovertonphotographer 2 года назад

Found your video very interesting I use camping/outdoor bags on my wheelchair always adapting it. Gave up on Camera bags long time ago as they did not last as you said to expensive, Enjoy your time in the photo blind.

@stevensakic4342 2 года назад

Thank You . Great video . I have purchased Lowepro 650 AW , as I do have 600Mm lens with Nikon 850 and 500 , and I do carry also my Hasselblad . The bag is great it holds all my gear that I need for the day. The bag can hold all my heavy gear or go light for my landscape photography.

@danw4930 2 года назад

Thanks for taking time to do this video! I have wasted a mountain of money over the years and I agree with you about military gear. I may do another pass at getting new setup that will fit everything I like to do and do it QUIETLY. Velcro closures are a really dumb thing for anyone trying to get close to nature. Silent clips make an enormous difference along with molle loops for building out the kit. A good internal frame with a proper waist belt and torso fit is essential. Thanks again for a stellar job on the video. I certainly needed the inspiration!

@merkin22 2 года назад

I've got a bunch of packs -- purely high country hiking and some purely photography bags. So when the two are combined it's usually two bags for me. The Bergen would be a grand addition to combine both needs. Of course you reviewed it and it's sold out everywhere LOL Thanks for this; one of the best gear reviews I've seen, period! Cheers!

@Black3ternity 2 года назад

Thank you for this video. I am a hobby photographer that just goes on hikes and regular weekend-trips. Nothing major, no expeditions and adventures. But you hit the nail on the head. I wanted an Fstop bag but the price is just way too harsh. I got a cheaper Lowepro that fits my gear ever so nicely but there is just no room for anything else. I will 100% check out your information about how to get my own backpack or at least how to consider my future choices. Keep up the nice work. I always appreciate the content and the relaxing atmosphere you provide.

@PetrSl Год назад

Thanks Morten for your videos. Very inspiring!!! I myself have been using the large Shimoda Action X70 backpack for the past few years. With aluminum frame, interchangeable shoulder straps and 77 liter interior. Not advertising, just very satisfied!

@patkeen8668 Год назад

Morton is just the best. Everything comes from the heart with the wisdom from experience. I can't remember ever watching an equipment video over 30 minutes until now.

@borjamendezfoto 2 года назад

There is a lot of good advice here, specially when you say you have to make things work for you. I've gone through so many different setups and I find it funny that we as a community have reached the same conclusions: regular hiking/nature packs are nicer and more comfortable but taking out the camera is a hard task.

@user-vt8wl7pj4d 6 месяцев назад

Really awesome video! I'm a product design student doing research for my senior thesis project and this is exactly the type of user background I have needed. Thank you for all of the insight!!

@bestregardsangela7543 12 дней назад

Thank you for a great detailed video! I’m a tall girl who has dslr and big lenses, and now I prefer looking at hiking backpacks than photo backpacks, because my spine hates the way it feels after three hours of walking with peak design or something like that. And the more comfortable the physical process is, the better we work. I haven’t found a great backpack for myself for now, but that is a journey and it was super valuable to hear your thoughts and experienced opinion, thank you for help!

@andrewgaffney4881 2 года назад

I’ve been searching for a camera backpack for a while now. Being former military, I was looking at military backpacks too, I just haven’t found one yet that I like. Kudos for sharing your professional opinion.

@LiamFyfe 2 года назад

I also have not used a ‘camera specific’ bag for a long time… you could not be more correct about the carrying system being super important! Even just commuting or anything in life a good bag with a sturdy back and good shoulder straps makes life just better! I also love your ethics on supporting a local shop over ebay or Amazon, so refreshing to hear

@22ophiotrix11 2 года назад

I agree to your recommendations. I´ve got several backpacks from different brands, even the old LoweProTrekker, which is still in use and often customize normal backpacks for my special needs, for example Ortlieb with inserts, when it has to be absolutely water-and even saltwater-proof, but its not comfortable to carry for long time. Most times I don't carry camping equipment, so I'm happy with 15-20 kg on my back.

@irinapozdnyakova5942 2 года назад

Hello Morton! Thank you for the wonderful video!

@zenphotojourney 2 года назад

I've had similar problems trying to find a pack to carry camera and tripod along with batteries for trailcams and camera trapping equipment. Then add water emergency kit, extra clothes etc and I just haven't found a good solution yet. I like the idea of the ICU units. I'd been looking at tactical bags but didn't know how I'd make those work for camera gear. Now I may have a solution. Thanks Morton. Your content is always good. Even my daughter who isn't a photographer enjoys your videos.

@e.levesque1972 Год назад

Thanks very much. You did a hell of a job. Very nicely put together, with a ton of info. I have the 450 Lowepro and like it, but having something with a rucksack frame gives a foundation to support and carry your load with.

@richlebrocq Год назад

Great video love it I’ve used a few bags over the years. Currently using shimoda action x50 and love it don’t think I’ll be changing anytime soon. Perfect size for my gear plus enough space for any non camera gear. Also fits as carry on for most airlines

@lavapix Год назад

I had the 2010 version of the F-Stop Tilopa and used it for everything for 8 years. It never fit me perfectly but damn that bag held a ton of stuff and it was all easy to access. It had two side pockets that could hold two 1-liter SmartWater bottles each. That was great for the 20+ miles adventures. Now the MindShift DayLight 18L is my daily use bag. The Micro 4/3 system fits nicely in it. I use to Frankenstein regular hiking bags too. I still have them. A huge Cabelas backpack for multi day trips and an old Mountainsmith Approach 40L for shorter outings. Both using FStop cubes.

@XlogicXX 2 года назад

I concur 100%. Military backpacks are awesome for wildlife photographers. They are way more functional and durable than the typical camera backpacks. I've been using the Eberlestock mid-size (front load) backpack for the past couple years and it's been great.

@paulg.2347 2 года назад

Hi Morten, i don't have big photo equipment like you but after buying several photo bags and finding them not confortable when hicking . I finally switch to a Osprey Kamber 42l hicking pack and i put ICU for my camera gear. NO more shoulder and back pain. Out door bags are the winner.

@Tuomimaki 2 года назад

I did the same with Osprey Kestrel 68. Love it!

@TheWillRogers 2 года назад

I've been using an Osprey Aether. Opening is a little small but it's fine. I think I liked my Decathlon Forclaz Trek 900 pack better for access, but the Aether is more comfy.

@carstenpusch4480 2 года назад

Thanks a lot, very interesting to hear about your expeareances. 😃👍

@WalkIntoTheWild 2 года назад

You should start your own range of backpacks. I was looking for such product and still not able to find it. I am glad you made this video, it was very much needed.

@mareng5206 2 года назад

Thank you for a great video Morten, as always. You really gave us a lot of valuable tips and information. 12 l molle compatible side pouches from Savotta maybe might fit your Savotta backpack 🇫🇮 Tack för inspirationen 🙌

@frankstopa6270 2 года назад

Excellent advice! Like you and many others, I've concluded that camera backpacks just don't work or me. Adapting military gear to my uses works so much better. I would add that if I'm going to be on/in/near water, I like military drybags to protect my cameras and lenses. Watershed Drybags makes a range of military drybags that I like as backpacks and have adapted as slings. They are even submersible up to about 100 meters! Again excellent advice! Thank you.

@matthiasharbers2533 2 года назад

Very correct! I agree, look for good hiking backpacks and then put a camera cube which you can get from different makers not only F Stop. They are commonly much more comfortable than the photo backpacks, and you can find these days hiking backs that can be opened on the front to give you easy access.

@dietmarwechselberger6707 2 года назад

Love your recommendation. That's exactly how I do. Inform via the internet and then go to a local dealer, test it live and purchase there.

@simonlawphotography 2 года назад

Just received a British Army 90L bergen, that will do nicely. Super rugged. Plus already have a couple of inserts I can use. Great advice, thank you.

@user-ul3gb8cr5c 8 месяцев назад

thank you ! i also go with custom backpack, but this video is great and gave me new ideas!

@longrifle. 2 года назад

Camera back packs do one thing and one thing only carry lenses and bodies. There are few that have provisions or room for anything else. And even fewer that can accommodate big glass (500 f4 size). That number decreases even more when you add big glass, with lens hood attached in the shooting position, and living out of that pack for days. Hiking packs have the room but are often brightly colored, lightly constructed, usually top loading ect. Like Morten I reverted to a military pack for the basis of my build. Modularity is a must, one pack that does it all! (So to speak.) Adding or deleting mission specific gear as needed, sometimes hourly, meant MOLLE was also a must. Ex. a Molle handcuff case is great for screw on filters. Or hang a solar panel and charge on the go from the Molle. No one wants to stuff a wet and muddy rain coat into the same fleece lined compartment as tens of thousands of dollars of cameras/lenses. On a $700 back pack, because there is no where else to put it. With Molle you can put essentials in a smaller day type pack and attach that to the Mother pack. Within seconds you have downsized 80%, the possibilities are endless. LowePro or F Stop never has or will make anything like that. Both mfj's would wonder why you would need to carry an axe and your camera gear. So if your wanting to cary more than just your camera gear stop looking at gear reviews and shopping for commercial photography packs. Go military with an ICU type body/lens case. Then build out from there for YOUR needs. You can buy high end mil packs for what mid range photo packs cost!

@fabiankeppler315 Год назад

Even as this was not a review it was the best overview I have seen. I am guilty of following the advice from other ‘influencers’ and have about the same collection (lowpro/f-stop) and unfortunately with the same conclusions. The prices are ridiculous, functionality sub-par. Great advice, would like to have seen this 3 years ago 😊

@tomdearie5165 Год назад

Thanks for the info, Morten. Since you carry that big 12lb Bergans, you might find the Kuiu ultralight hunting packs interesting. The 7800 is 127L but only 6lbs when empty - barely more than my 80L FStop Shin. It’s got attachment points on the frame that can be repurposed to attach an ICU (I’m adding two more points for added stability). Suspension system has robust lumbar support and is rated for 150lb loads. Lots of expansible pockets and attachment points on the outside for adaptation. FOr shorter hops, it has 3 way compression so that it can be compressed down to the size of a day bag. I bought it because my Shin was not cutting it as an expedition bag.

@MeAMuse 2 года назад

I dont carry nearly as much as you, but I definitely have the same sentiment about bags. Most dedicated photography bags are overpriced and generally dont actually work that well once you get them into the outdoors. For example, I use an Osprey Stratos 36L for hiking. It fits my 100-400 very nicely in its case in the bottom section and then I have a camera insert I use for another 2 lenses. It then has plenty of room for everything I want with me for the hike. Even some of the dedicated camera bags I often alter (adding straps, molle pockets, removing velcro, etc.). Weirdly... I also bought that XL F-stop camera cube but not to go into any bag. It fits all of my (and my wife's) camera gear and actually fits in a plane overhead. It fits 4 cameras (2 full frame, 2 APSC), 5 zooms, 5 primes and my teleconverter. It then is effectively my base camp storage area. My general advice is to work out what you want to carry then look at options for how you make that happen. There are plenty of places you can order from that have free returns... Take advantage of that.

@TomGoro 2 года назад

Thank you for all the insights and experience, it was very interesting to watch. I liked the mods you did to Bergans pack. If you ever get a chance to try Mystery Ranch backpacks, have a go at those. They are little costly but the versatility is great, many offer really good access inside and some of them have an Overload feature that allows carrying a lot of stuff. Their hunting backpacks range might really be something that you will like.

@4-MinuteMiles 10 месяцев назад

very thorough thank you I need something that won't fall apart when i am halfway round the world. Lots of good ideas here.

@RaphaelBugiel 2 года назад

Hi Morten, I'm using the Bergans together with the ICU-Alternative from Flyht Pro (Flyht Pro Flex Inlay WP Safe Box 7 fits well into the Bergans (approx 35€)) for two years now to carry my stuff around at the Swiss alps. To "close" the ICU I just put a small piece of a sleeping pad on top of it. I have no quality comparison to the f-stop ones, but they work fine for me.

@Luke-dk4ei Год назад

If only I had seen this earlier. This seems to be a steal compared to the F-Stop one

@stevensakic4342 Год назад

Great Video. Thank you Morten . You just Solved my problems, with camera Backpacks. I do use My Lowepro 650aw. but since I got a hip replacement I like to use camera Backpack that can carry only one lens 600mm. and batteries for the camera. . Very nice to see your videos and letting us know on your ideas on what works and what doesn"t . Thank you again.

@yukonchris Год назад

Hi Morten, Thank you for making this video. It is very refreshing to watch a You Tube presenter who is talking about products but not actually trying to sell you anything. I agree with your advice to try prospective products when possible. Unfortunately, here in Yukon, I live a thousand kilometres from the closest full-service camera shop, and that has forced me to rely to a great extent on reviewers on-line. This means that despite my best efforts, I have wound up with crappy bags more often than not. Fortunately, about a year ago, I elected to try a Shimoda bag, and it has proven both comfortable, and reasonably versatile. Still, watching your discussion about the limitations of the f-stop bag, highlighted some issues that I have also noted with the Shimoda such as the constricted access to the sides of the ICU when its packed full. I also worry about its durability, especially where the shoulder straps are fixed to the bag at the top. Another camera specific bag that I've heard some good things about is the Atlas Pack, but again, without being able to try something in advance, you have to rely on the experiences of others. Anyway, the Shimoda is working pretty well for me for now. Anyway, I agree with your thoughts on cost--add the word "camera" to almost anything and it feels like a license to double the price. Perhaps the military bag option is worth trying out one day. Thanks again for what really felt like an honest look at backpacks. I wish more reviewers would provide constructive critiques rather than simply pointing out the good points. Thanks again.

@mauibuilder1239 Год назад

Learned so much from this practical video. Thank you.

@Belchdragon 2 года назад

Great video. The other day I talked with a non photographer friend on modularity and the need to find a solution that works for the different situations or tasks that you have. He talks a lot on the subject of toolboxes nad how to set them up for different jobs. I love my shimodas but there is still the small things that could be just a little better. I keep to my Shimoda's that have the same overpriced ICU's as I got them during the crowdfunding fase and that shaves cost off. I really like the opening from the backside and will keep that as my priority for my shorter walks. Again good stuff and definitely a good video that gives food for thought on gear in general. Hold dig munter.

@ashfield001 2 года назад

Brilliant! Thanks Morten.

@GeneralSaif77 2 года назад

Dear Morten,I watched the whole video and i enjoyed your tips,I live in the middle east,In the desert,So my needs are a medium bag and strong bag that can withstand hot and desert weather. Thank you for the tips!

@wwcreations1 2 года назад

I ended up buying a big hunting back pack, designed to carry heavy loads, and then added an insert made for carrying camera gear (might be F-stop). It wasn't the cheapest route but cheaper then "photography bags" in comparison! And I made sure that the pack sat comfortably and fit me.

@seabreezeof 2 года назад

A true and honest perspective on bags, The Bergans Powerframe 130 you settled on still has the straps in the mud when you set it down. These wont, take a serious look at Shimoda ACTION X70, Osprey KAMBER, Gregory TARGHEE , Mystery Ranch. or look for larger bags with those companies....Enjoy all your Expeditions/Outings, stay safe my friend.

@rogerirwin7293 2 года назад

Thank You Morten, I have struggled with finding a good pack. I have had 3 lowepro's like you have and have worn them out. The last one was good except the mane zipper went and Lowepro does not stand behind the zipper ,they said find a luggage repair person. That was not something that was cheap to fix so I trashed it and settled on the Fstop Tilopia bag, which now that I am older I carry less stuff with me. Z9 with 500 pf and a D500 with 300pf and a couple smaller lenses. I have the same problem as you fitting lenses in the side pockets of the ICU, its a struggle. Especially reaching behind me to pull them out when in my fishing kayak with just one hand, they catch on the edge of the bag!

@frstesiste7670 2 года назад

Excellent video IMO. It's so important to emphasize the need to try on a pack. At least packs intended for serious outdoor use on long days. Personally I don't like too specialized equipment and avoided photo specific packs for many years. Then I started hiking with 2+ extra lenses I needed easy access to and ran into the similar access problem you have (but with smaller lenses on smaller packs) and got my first photo pack (a LowePro daypack). It really did wonders for access, but had astonishingly bad straps that basically wore out in half a year. Now I have a couple of camera packs, but still prefer using my hiking packs unless I really need the easy access.

@franziabegglen 2 года назад

Thank you for that video, that literally saved me lots of money! I just took my Osprey trekking backpack out of the cupboard and found out both my F-Stop ICU fit perfectly into it… no need to look for a bigger backpack anymore 😁.

@simonlawphotography 2 года назад

Great advise, thank you. I spend a lot of time on Dartmoor in the south west of England. The weather can change very quickly and you need to carry the correct gear. I have been looking for a camera bag which will carry my all weather gear and my 200 to 600mm, but as you say, they are expensive and I know from my current bag, not that good in poor weather conditions. Will definitely be trying out my local military surplus stores :)

@MrEmoor Год назад

I wish I had seen this video before I purchased the Tenba back pack I currently have. My son gave me a beautiful backpack he was issued when he was in the US Army and it is perfect for this! I will still use it like you suggest, but I could have saved myself some money. Great video!!

@FriedrichEsser 2 года назад

Thank you for sharing your knowledge or experience

@andre.emme.photography9901 Год назад

Thank you so much! I didnÄt find any other good source with advice abouot options with which I would be able to hike and do wildlife photography. I tried different options, beeing disappointed with each and every one of them. And I always asked myself how to make customize my own without knowing needlework. But this gave me some great inspirations!

@christianheld9720 Год назад

Seriously this video came at the right time. My Thinktank has given up the ghost and am looking for something to hold all my digital and analogue camera gear and accessories

@Luke-dk4ei 2 года назад

Love your attitude towards quality and price. Great video and very useful recommendations. Another possible modification to carry tripods: Add a magazine pouch (I use a Tasmanian Tiger G36 pouch) for two magazines to the front of the backpack. The pouch holds the legs of my tripod while added straps hold the top. I like that better than having excess weight on one side of the backpack. I bought a smaller Savotta (Jääkäri L) to be able to add a camel bag / water bladder, food and rain gear along camera gear. I really like its durability and options to add pockets. What I dislike is squeaking of straps/the top of the backpack sometimes, the fact that the straps will loosen, eg at the bottom and the top of the backpack, and camera gear / the ICU is only accessible from the top. I am not sure an ICU for the 400 f2.8 fits into the backpack - so this video came just in time. Thank you

@cristibaluta Год назад

The best carrying system i had was on a lowepro, it had straps at the buttom of the bag. Putting the tripod on the front of the bag is a lot of weight detached from your body moving around... On the side is not bad, you can counter balance the weight

@SoundArtMagic Год назад

another excellent video. i do that same thing for field recording, using a hiking backpack with bags for microphones inside. soooo much easier to carry and also good for hiking/camping equipment. also, much more durable