👜Lowepro Urban Reporter ($60 on Amazon help.tc/reporter) 👜Adorama 24/7 Messenger ($80 on Amazon help.tc/247) 👜Everyday Messenger ($250 on Amazon help.tc/everyday). NOTE: This bag DOES NOT include the camera clasp or leash--those were extras that Peak Design included in our copy without us knowing. 👜Domke Herald ($300on Amazon help.tc/herald) 👜Ona Brixton ($440 on Amazon help.tc/onabrixton )
Vanguest tough built gear, envoy messenger bag @170.00 and the 511 rush delivery "Mike.,Lima and Xray" @ 120.00 beat these awkward mammoth Weiner bags all day every day.
Thanks for the reply, Tony. I've found reversing it to be a bit odd. And it definitely makes it awkward to clip in the stabilizing strap. I agree it's cumbersome to get it out of the little pocket.
+David Vogt Its my first time viewing their videos, but all I can say is, these are definitely some negative reviewers, they don't really seem to know their products. man, like u said it was painful to watch.
Yeah it was hard for me to watch as well. They kept saying "I think, maybe, it seems" so it sounded like they didn't know what they were talking about.
+junyo koh Agreed. Feels like Tony actually checked these out in advance and Chelsea is getting her first look at these. Both need to try them out, both need to rehearse what's good and bad about these. Worse, you rarely get to see what's in these bags. Put them on a table. Poor not the guts towards the camera. When reviewing, share with the audience, don't just show. And they really need to stop with the "ummm"'s.
IMO, you can't really go wrong with ONA bags. I've been using both the Camps Bay, and the Leather Prince Street. Expensive; but worth every penny. This is mainly because of the way ONA represents their bags. The way they market their bags and show them on social media are really ways to make you proud of owning one. If you have the bucks for it; it's really worth it.
The clip on the outside of the Everyday Messenger is designed for keys. You can clip them on and put them in the side pocket with no risk of losing them.
+David Vogt That makes no sense to me, as I already have a place for keys (my pocket). However, I figured out a good use for it--a backup strap for the camera you have in the (optional) holster... connect the backup strap anytime you won't be accessing your camera to protect it if it comes loose.
How does it not make sense to you? Why would you carry your keys in your pocket, when you can have them in your bag? Why even have a bag, if you're just going to carry everything yourself :-P?
After getting the ONA Brixton for a gift, I now understand woman and their handbags. Love it. I put batteries and extra cards in small cases in the front pockets. They don't fall out.
My wife and I added the new Peak Design Everyday Messenger Bag to our collection. We both like them and they have become our go to bag for the Sony A7rII kits. When traveling by air we put our Macbook Pro 15" laptops and accessories in, but not for walking around. We find the bags a perfect size, I am 5'10" and my wife is 5'6." Any smaller and they would not work for our kits. We take our GuraGear 32 liter backpacks for our larger Canon gear. The Guras go in the overhead and the Peak Design bags fit under our seat.
For the Everyday Messenger, the small leash at the side pocket, I'm using it to hold my keys. Clasp in and store it in the pocket. My 15" MBP fits nicely into the bag. the stabiliser straps helps when cycling. ^^ Still awesome review you got there
I would say that the cross-strap on the peak everyday is essential if you're a cyclist. Messengers without that strap are almost impossible to ride a bike with.
I greatly appreciate your candor in this review, but what is equally evident is a lack of preparation. Others here have mentioned some of the mistakes and omissions...but for me the two most glaring both involve the Everyday Messenger: 1) You act perplexed regarding the side lanyard (which is specifically intended and explicitly marketed as being for keys or other small items, and not an actual dangling camera as you show). 2) You state the Capture Clip is included free with the bag...uh, no. While you can buy a bundled set with straps, clips, and two different bags...the Everyday Messenger itself is otherwise sold independently. If in the course of a review you find yourself repeatedly saying the words "I don't know...", as you do here more times than I could count, then you should probably not consider yourself ready to post a credible review.
You might want to watch Peak Designs you tubes videos on the bag to appreciate some of the features, but some things I noticed: -small tripods fit fine, they recommend just extending two legs and using the silicon band that comes in the zippered pocket -the leash/clip on the pocket is mostly meant for keys, I don't think from their videos they intended to hand a camera from it at all...although you can use it to clip to the camera on capture to back it up like the cotton carrier, but that is a bit awkward -I'm pretty sure the capture camera clip isn't included, at least it didn't come with mine. -I think the bigger picture of the sliding trap is to go from messenger/biking style (high up on your back) to low lying or side carry. -no need to cut the waist straps, they are removable. -shooting with mirror less just gives you extra room for jackets and lunch Still great video and nice look at some bags!
Looks like you were really struggling with the Everyday Messenger bag. I highly recommend taking a look at some of the videos Peak Design put out to explain how to use the straps. Those waist straps are fantastic and really save your back if you're out all day and need to take the weight off, but the way you tried it out was just a configuration for if you were on a bike and had the strap shortened. I am using mine for a mirrorless outfit and it is big for that, but I like to have room for non-camera stuff if I'm running around the city all day. Hopefully they'll make a smaller bag next but for being their first I think they hit this one out of the park.
I have the everyday messenger bag and its the sweet spot. Price, storage looks and practicality. I'm a Sony mirrorless user and this has heaps of room and everywhere I go people ask me about this bag. Peak Design FTW!
The Thinktank Retrospective series of messenger bags really are the perfect bags for carrying your gear around. So many different sizes. You can really load them up if you want to, and the shoulder pad is the most comfortable shoulder pad I've ever used. I like the look of them as well, nice but not too flashy like the Ona or Billingham bags when you want to be discreet. And they have pockets for just about everything. I have the Retro 10 in black and since then haven't needed to look for another camera bag, just love it.
hey Tony the adaroma and everyday messenger bag are meant to be worn higher on the back. That's why you have the side strap to hold it closer to your back. useful when your biking. think bike messenger.
I have the Everyday Messenger 13. Thankfully Peak Design has now made a smaller bag that fits my needs. My 13.5" Microsoft Surface Book laptop fits perfectly. And I now use a smaller Sony mirrorless camera. After many decades and myriads of bags, this one is my favorite by far.
Nice to see a review of the PD Messenger as worn by real people - so many reviews/articles have just shown it on a table, so lacking any real size comparison. They really do need to do a smaller one of those. As messenger bags go, I've been using the Lowepro Event Messenger 250 for the last few years. It's smaller (and cheaper) than the Urban Reporter, but comfortably holds a 70-200, body with 24-70 or 24-105, a prime and/or a flashgun, which is all I need for shooting in convention halls/hotels/etc. For more outdoorsy stuff I use a Tenba Shootout 24L backpack - it's one of few with a double entry, so you can keep a body with telephoto lens attached accessible through the bottom access zipper and another body with (for example) a 16-35 or 24-70 accessible near the top zipper. Saves annoying field lens changes in possibly inclement weather.
How about Billingham? I love Billingham, they're pretty good in my opinion. Doesn't look like a camera bag, well designed and I love their customer service. I bought mine in China and when I try to verify whether it is authentic or not, they can provide me with an exact production date after I send them some pictures of the bag and it's serial number. The best part is when the clip button on my bag snapped off, I try to reach their customer service again to ask about the service center location. Surprisingly, they send a replacement part all the way from UK, free of charge!
I am a fan of the everyday messenger bag and I just ordered mine. I think that might be the best bag in your review. Also it's not just a camera bag you can use it in other uses. it's probably one of the nicest and best bags out there today.
Thanks for all of the informative videos. I like the Domke bag that you guys are featuring. It seem simple and it has a classic look. I use and love the Peak Designs straps and connectors, but that bag is way to futuristic looking for my taste. And Peak Designs tried way too hard to fit connectors, clamps, straps and other expensive knick knacks. And the main turn off about that bag is the billet aluminum flap closure and its multiple metal bars. I personally do a lot of city and urban shooting and all of that metal just seems like a good way to scratch a parked car or a way to ruin wall finishes when indoors and furniture. My favorite bag is a Tenba DNA Messenger 15. I use it to carry my mirrorless kit, 1 Olympus Omd Em 5 Mk2, 40-150, a couple of primes. A Sony A6000, 10-18 wide zoom, 70-200, and a kit lens. It also holds plenty of batteries, and a flash. It has a modern Cordura Nylon exterior, plenty of padding, dividers, and pockets inside and out. 2 mesh outside end pockets for gloves and water bottles. It has 2 quick magnetic strap closures to secure the front flap. A luggage piggy back strap. A seat belt material shoulder strap and a well padded shoulder pad with grip material so it stays in place. And my favorite feature is the zippered quick access on the top of the flap so you don't have to open up the flap to pull out a lens or body. The front flap has side gussets to keep the elements out and it comes with a rain cover. Its pretty affordable, $170, which not to much considering its protecting my expensive gear.
Have you guys considered doing(if you didn't already) something similar for mirrorless cameras? Let's say for someone that has a Sony with some small lenses or even a Fuji or Olympus or something like that, what's some good bags for the smaller cameras and a few lenses or even just a mirrorless and a single lens?
I have bought numerous bags, some purpose made camera bags and some messenger bags repurposed. There is no ideal bag unless someone invents a magical bag of relatively small dimensions that accepts all the camera bodies, accessories, etc. That I want and magically lightens everything to less than 5 pounds :) Of course that's a dream so I try to find the ideal bag and I've gotten close with the ONA Street Prince bag. It holds the Leica M240 with the 50mm Summilux, the Leica Q with enough space for extra batteries, filters, the EVF and a few more small items. Also, the new 12" Macbook fits in perfectly. The 2 outside front pockets can carry more stuff as well. The rear pocket has a magnetic clasp which is very nice. It also has the leather handle and the shoulder strap with a pad. So far it's my favorite bag.
Tony and Chelsea, thanks for your review of messenger bags. As a working pro for over 40 years, I prefer a shoulder bag with top flap, compartments, dividers, pockets. For me it is important that everything is easily accessible while on my shoulder. When doing landscape photography, I don't want to set it down in the mud or bugs. And when doing travel/city photography, I want everything available for quick access, and where I can see and feel it to prevent theft. Separate organized dividers and pockets are crucial to keeping organized. A place for everything and everything in its place. Sun block, bug repellent, compass, whistle, magnifier, energy bar, water, speedlight, reflector, wireless trigger, etc, etc, etc. Clips snaps latches all must be one-hand operations. Velcro is not ok when you need to be quiet. Unfortunately, bag must be too large for Chelsea because D800 plus a few lenses and speedlight, and all other necessary doodads, etc are fairly large. I have a 30-year-old Tamrack that's pretty good. I prefer a cheap, incognito stealth design that looks like something that no one would want to steal or own. "Invisible" is best if you want to get real work done. Remove labels and logos. Think Tank roller is pretty good for air travel, but not enough pockets. My stealth mode case is a 5$ black canvas WalMart utlity case/purse with a front zipper pocket for small items, rear zipper pouch for releases. Just big enough to hold camera lens and speedlight. Great for where pros are unwelcome.
I'm a great fan of Billingham bags. They are similar to the Domke but have an English style with the leather and brass buckles and studs. I have the original Hadley, a 225 and a 445.
The messenger bags are favorites of hit and run thieves. They are so easy to grab and the thieves really appreciate your vauable professional camera gear.
They all look pale in comparison to my Billingham Hadley Pro : ) You guys should check it out Its like a tardis looks small but it fits canon 5dmk3, canon 50 1.2, sigma 85 1.4, canon 16-35 f4, YN568 EX II, and has plenty of space in the front pockets for all accessories ; ) batteries, memory cards, business cards, color targets, flashlights eneloops, lenspens and whatever else.
The Ona bag is made of leather and rather heavy by itself. Weighs more than my camera with kit lens. I like the Domke bag best, though the pink zippers look strange to me.
If you are a Street/Casual shooter ( someone who doesnt carry much gear) the Lowepro Terraclime 100 bag is worth checking out. Ive used one one for several years and it has held up very well. Also, it is made from 95% recycled plastic, which is nice!
the Temba Messenger bag is fantastic, they don't make it anymore, but it's still available on line. It has all the best features of each bag you reviewed. But it's all in one bag.
I purchased a Billingham 550 around 15 years ago and it's still in great condition. Earlier this year I added the smaller Hadley Pro. They are not cheap but have given my equipment great protection over the years. Excellent bags.
The strap where the camera hangs from is meant to be there incase you take the camera off the holder and it drops. The everyday messenger bag looks good although very costly and for what it holds not sure if it's worth it. Must admit though seeing from this it's bigger than I thought. Another thing that concerns me about these bags is the ease of access, if you had it to your back someone could easily gain access and steal your equipment, maybe I'm paranoid but security is something I take concern over.
There was a negative tone throughout the video that brought the video down which is a shame. Whilst Tony is more informative and fairly balanced, I felt Chelsea was pessimistic to all. Body language and tones were negative. More than a healthy dose of scepticism. Shame as think there was a good about of information and coverage of a variety of bags, but this didn't really work for me. Hope this helps constructively going forward.
One Tech Traveller maybe what they tried to do is to cut all only positive stupidity that people says about how good such and such thing. I hate when they only write possitive reviews. Isn't there anybody out there with a different opinion? That's what I ask myself when I try to find the best product. However, keep in mind what they said at the beginning of the video: there is no thing such as the perfect bag because everyone needs something different.
My favourite messenger style bag is my Billingham Hadley Pro. It looks great and holds a lot of gear without being too bulky. LIke Tony, I added a velcro memory card holder to keep things organized.
The everyday messenger is a great bag if you're a cyclist. (I cycle with it on a regular basis). It also fits a 15" retina with ease. (so no thick toshiba's Tony) :P
I think that the better option for a Lowepro bag would be the Compuday 150. I've had one for a few years now and I use that as an everyday bag that sometimes doesn't have a camera at all. It has a dedicated side-access compartment for a small-to-medium camera body and lens (I'm using a 6D with a Tamron 24-70/2.8 and that's about the largest lens/body it will fit) and a slot which fits most 15" laptops and enough space to have some other stuff. It lacks some dividers for extra lenses but with some creativity I'm certain that something suitable could be whipped up. There are provisions for memory cards and other gadgets. It's not the greatest looking bag in the world but it's definitely a bag that can blend in.
Bought a used Incase Ari Marcopulous for 40 bucks. Excellent camera bag, very comfortable to wear, lots of well thought out compartments inside, a nice tripod strap and it looks very nice too :)
For me, the "waist strap" on the Everyday Messenger is more useful for attaching to the handle bar of a small to medium sized suitcase. I doubt I'd use it much to attach to my body but for suitcases, it can be invaluable.
I couldn't care less about the bags I carry my stuff in, but that Everyday Messenger is seriously impressive. You guys own more bags in value then my dslr and lenses :o
Great review, I love my ONA Bowery, wouldn't want anything else than ONA. I carry it around on a daily basis, the buckles open and close with one hand (and almost silently). No one knows my camera is inside. I like your cald holder hack and will get one too. Only thing is the it doesn't come with more than one divider and I had to get an extra one to be able to carry two lenses and my mirrorless. It is the smallest Ona but will fit my a6000 with kit lens, and my Nikon d90 with 50mm. When I 'm doing streetphotography and I know I want to shoot wide and also want the option of having a f/1.8 I just jam them both in there and switch camera's. Will get the Brixton when my gear exceeds the bag. But for now I'm really pleased with it.
Hi Tony & Chelsea. The Tamrac Aria range is really good choice if you want something compact for mirrorless. They're available in all different sizes - I have two of them in different sizes and in the larger one I can carry my Sony A6000, with a 50mm lens, a 10-18mm lens and also my Panasonic GX7 with a 100-300mm lens.. There's space for some other bits and bobs inside too and it's nice and slim which I really like
Hey Tony and Chelsea, Great review as always! To answer your question as to our bag preference, I find the thinkTANKPhoto Retrospective, Urban Design Classic 50, and the Tenba Messenger DNA 11, just about perfect for a mirrorless system such as the Fujifilm X-System. One thing I like about the Classic 50 and Messenger DNA bags, is the top-side zipper to allow quick and easy access to gear without opening the main flap. I also wanted to say that I really don't understand why a camera bag manufacturer would use metal "snap" closures! IMHO, it always takes two hands to fasten any snap (plus the extra time/effort to "line up" the two halves of the snap!), and that's why I find the zipper so much more appealing, not to mention more secure! I also applaud thinkTANKPhoto for use of high-quality YKK zippers. In any case (pardon the pun), thanks for your always informative reviews, and Happy Fourth!
I'm a hoarder of messenger bags - I've been searching for the unicorn of bags. The Lowepro Messenger 160 AW is a smaller one, if the Lowepro Urban Reporter is too big. The Timbuktu camera messenger bags are uncomfortable if you add more than a camera and single lens as the strap digs into the shoulder - unless you get the small. There's no real storage for memory cards, batteries, cleaning cloths etc either. I'm a big fan of Peak Design's Everyday messenger, and would be the pick of the ones I own, but I also recommend the Crumpler Haven pouch for throwing inside other bags if you don't want to look like you're carrying a camera bag
The best bag I have found so far is an old fabric army medic bag. It is light, durable and does not look like a camera bag. With a couple modifications it holds all I need for a day of shooting. I have a variety of Think Tank and Lowepro bags, they stay home most days.
A clarification on the PeakDesign bag. It does NOT come with the capturePro. Tony got a press release package that came with a few peak design 'goodies'. Rest assured that us regular consumers will ONLY get the bag when making the 250 USD purchase. EDIT: Ohh I see the annotations correct this. You also mention the leash, which is actually never pictured in the video. People might be confused with the 'leash' that you also attached a camera to as a 'leash'. It's more meant for keys or something, and the other end if permanently fixed to the bag.
Tony, hate to point it out, but the Peak Design camera clip doesn't come free with the bag. Maybe yours did for the review, but it's not part of the package. Also the main strap was installed backwards.
+Brent Rivers Yeah, I added an annotation to this effect. It was really weird of them to attach it to the bag before shipping it to me and not mention that it wasn't included... The bag was otherwise in its original packaging, with tags and everything. I turned the strap inside-out (it's reversible) so that the rubber side would be on my shoulder. The other way, it kept slipping off. That seemed like a really bizarre design choice.
+Tony Northrup Oops, sorry, I didn't see it in the notes (didn't look at the notes). I agree the anti slip material should have been on the inside of the strap from the beginning. It seemed to offer a bit of a struggle being reversed when trying to pull the side strap up to the hook loop. It will be interesting to see how this bag holds up, but it's simplified my 3 backpacks, 2 of which can't carry my laptop.
+Tony Northrup The reason the strap is reversible is precisely to be able to use both way. You use the side that slide easier if you're using it as a messenger bag and you need to quickly move it back and forth while using it. You use the non-slip side if you are using it as a shoulder bag. The design is based on their Slide camera Strap. It all in their literature and videos. "Seatbelt-style webbing with internal padding has smooth and grippy sides, letting it glide over any clothing or stay put exactly where you want it: back, hip or front." Let me add, as a constructive criticism, that while your reviews are great and very informative, at times they seems like you are unaware of basic information about the product that could be easily prevented by reading the material on the product page or asking the manufacturer about it. Such is the case with the case of the Everyday Messenger. An extremely well thought out and well designed and constructed bag was made to look poorly design by your ignorance of the product.
+Tony Northrup Actually its reversible feature is for left or right handed use, not inside or out. To use the grippy side of the strap, you just flip (twist the strap). As others have pointed out, it's meant to slide, from your back to side to front easily. But if you want the bag to "stick" you twist the strap. As others have mentioned, either read the tags (booklets) that came with the bag to know the features or check out PD videos.
There's a plethora of excellent camera bags - Think Tank, LowePro, Tenba, etc., but the Peak Design (especially the Everyday pack you showcased) is probably My favourite - at least one of.
As you said, the dividers are what are important. You can MAKE them from foam and a material of your choice and a cheap sewing machine. (bribe Grandma) This way they are custom to what you need for each body/lens. And I have used tool bags from Large home improvement stores, they are sturdy and come priced right. But the best bags I have fabricated are Shooting bag based. Also many sizes and styles your custom lens dividers and a shooting bag is my everyday bag! $40! I am also making my bag look like (not a camera bag) Sew your own dividers for lenses and bodies and transfer them to the bag of the day. (Also sew in a outside pocket for a card, a filter, a hood or whatever for each product, so when you grab it, you also have what goes with it. I am shocked at what they are asking for bags, most likely made by cheap labor abroad.
Everyday Messenger additional strap is great when you are cycling. Hunched down, the bag tends to drop to the front , thus preventing you from cycling. The small straps holds the bag to your back
+Maxim Mee Agreed. I may be mistaken, but I thought messenger bag referred to "bicycle messenger". When riding a bike bent over, messenger bags tend to swing around to the front. A stabilization strap is a nice addition.
Funny (and informative) to re-watch this video 5 years after :) I do wish you guys would do more bag reviews, well gear in general I guess, while a tripod and a head has not changed much over the years, some new players have arrived on the scene and perhaps it could be something to consider for 2020. New on to the next video on messenger/shoulder bags.
I have the ONA. But I use it everyday as my regular bag and occasionally use it for my X-T1, X100T and a couple lenses. One thing I couldn't get past was the quality of the Italian leather, but bear in mind it does scratch up really fast, it is designed to do that. So if you aren't into that you'd probably be better looking else where. Hey, why was Billingham bags not on this list? They make some really awesome, well thought out bags. Thought they'd at least get a mention.
I have a 1st gen Timbuk2 Snoop Camera bag. It's a messenger bag with a camera insert. When I go minimalist, I have my camera with one lens that I put in a small messenger bag that has just enough room for it and a few accessories. I have two such messenger bags, and they are pretty much purses. They are not padded, but they offer more protection than having the camera hang off a strap.
I like the honest reviews. I have the Everyday Messenger, and I find it very useful for carting all my gear. I've learned to only half-fill it though, because it is massive. Whenever I travel it becomes my carry-on bag
Nice review C&T! I've an original Domke F2; navy with tan trim, that was purchased in 1978 and it's still my multi-body choice, it can manage two pro bodies and 4-5 lenses, plus goodies. For smaller sets of gear it's either a TTP Retrospective 7 or an older Lowepro Messenger AW200. The latter two bags were put in service in early 2014, the old Domke is still my fave :)
I am a proud Ona Brixton bag owner and user. Love the look, perfect for my weddings. I love the fact that it does not look like a camera bag. For weddings and engagements I use it as a "shooter" bag to carry just the three lenses I need while I shoot. I think is the right size and look for weddings. I am considering adding the everyday messenger bag by Peak Design to be used for travel. Because I switched to the Sony Mirrorless system, my current backpack has become to big.
Thanks for the review guys... very informative. I have the Urban Reporter and I disagree about the size... I think the size is just right. I have my 7D with 24-105 in there and there is room for my 70-300, 10-22 and a couple of speed lights... everything I need for an extensive walk around shoot. The second flap on the internal liner is not a big issue... I've tucked mine down the back and, to be truthful, I'd even forgotten it was there. I do agree entirely about the awkward fasteners... they are a pain! Lowepro do have a bag that has Velcro fasteners that grip really tightly but are noisy! You can fold a flap over to cover them and magnetic catches come into play... not as secure but also a lot quieter. That is a great system. Wish they'd applied it to this bag.
I love and use the LowePro Flipside backpacks. There's no external access, so pickpockets can't get into it while you're wearing it, and you can put the belt on and flip it around in front of you, so you have a work surface with your gear on it while you're in the field. Great when you don't have a clean surface to swap out lenses.
Nice review guys, very practical advice and well done. You should look at the Think Tank Retrospective series. I love the Retrospective 20 it fits a pro DSLR, flash and the holy trinity very well. Also, I definitely agree with your review on the Lowepro, but it must be emphasized that they make much better messenger bags. Look at their passport series.
I use a Chrome Mini Metro as my daily driver bag, not the most ideal for cameras but it can work. I commute by bike, Chrome is wholeheartedly a bike messenger bag company. The ergonomics are tuned for comfort and stability while riding. It's built like a tank and has served me well for a long time.
I've thought about getting a messenger. The Peak Design looks like it would suit my needs pretty well. But, honestly, I can't really justify the expense. I'm currently using a Tamrac Evolution 8 and it's been the perfect camera backpack for me so far.
I just got the timbuk2 snoop camera messenger, quick adjustable strap is quite useful. Can be used as a normal messenger bag too, which is pretty cool and it doesn't look like a camera bag.
Think Tank all the way. I use the Retrospective 20 which can carry a full DSLR with 70-200 attached, along with extra lens, flash, etc. Pricey but I've been very happy with it. Occasionally I carry my camera in my regular backpack, especially situations when I don't want my camera bag to get beer soaked (stadiums) or when I want to carry a bunch of other, non camera stuff too.
Hi Tony, You said the capture comes free with the everyday messenger bag @ 9:22, is that true? I was not able to find any details any where that would say so.
I have the Tenba Messenger Mini for my mirrorless system camera/lenses when I'm travelling. I'm 5'8" male and it's the perfect size for me. It's lightweight so it doesn't add a lot to the overall mass you need to carry. It's been my favorite bag so far.
Tenba shootout backpack 24L, $379.99 cnd, is all I use at the moment. It's comfortable to wear and carries all the gear I usually need. Great vlog guys :)
I'm partial to the Ape Case backpacks. They're tough, have nice customizable padded dividers, plenty of compartments, and even a hidden raincover if you get caught in a storm and need to keep your stuff dry. Around $100-$120.
I would advise against such a heavy grade on a video where you are showing off a product like this. Its pretty hard to tell what the actual bags look like when this faded/magenta thing going on.
I have Lowepro Urban Reporter and it is great for air travel as an carry-on. Two straps on it are easy to use for me, but maybe not everybody is dextrous as I am.
I have a Think Tank Photo bag, I think it's the Retrospective 50. Fits a 13" laptop + whatever lens / body combo I can imagine to put in it. What I love about it is that it doesn't have any visible logos etc. It is sodding heavy though. I'm looking to buy a backpack next for traveling with my camera.
I like your description on Peak Design's bag...and like all their other stuff, they all look great, sounds great and always enticed me to get them and i have gotten every single Peak Design item they ever sold and am still buying their newer stuff..The ONLY problem is, i'm not actually using ANY of their stuff..i just can't find a use practical enough for any of their stuff..but somehow they've alwasy managed to convince me that maybe this new product is something i will use
I just use a backpack. I love it but I do see some good benefits to a dedicated camera bag. I have been looking into bags of all types (backpacks, messenger, sling). All have some features I really like and all have some aspect I don't like. Usually the styling is big negative in them. I am intrigued by the Peak Design. Not sure about the styling there. Nice looking in a geeky way but it stands out. I want a bag that looks nice but doesn't scream look at me! I like the external features of the Everyday Messenger but the internal ones, don't seem a big deal for it's size. And it is expensive for something, I am not sure if I would be wowed over. The problem with spending money on the more expensive ones is that after having bought one, I might still need another bag to use in other situations.I don't mind spending good money on a bag that is the one bag for me. To be honest, if I had the money. I would buy lots of them and just enjoy them all since none are the perfect fit. Kind of like shoes for some people. . LOL. I wonder if someone would create a truly customisable bag. One where you could choose the basic form, the material, then what extra features and compartments to add, what clasps or sippers to add. Yeah, I know it could get very expensive, but if it was the bag that truly lasts you and works perfect for you, then the price would be worth it. So it looks like I am staying with my backpack for now. Thinking about adding internal padding and compartments. Are you guys still thinking of doing a backpack refit video?
Hi Tony and Chelsea. You guys missed a few good and inexpensive bags, which are very popular. Including, but not limited to the Temba line, I have an older model Messenger Mini, which is great, and kind of looks like the Everyday Messenger, and costs a third. Other very popular are the Think Tank line, and on the luxury side, you missed a very popular and highly regarded bag, the Billingham Hadley Pro. I believe you should do a part 2 review of bags, and include some of them. Cheers
For everyday use I love my Billingham Hadley Pro. It holds everything I would need for a normal day of shooting. If I'm on an event with two cameras and simply need something to put additional lenses in, I use the Think Tank Turnstyle 10. If I just take a camera with two lenses it can even be used for everyday use.
bought the Matin balade 200 last week after watching a CZcams review, great looking bag amazing quality for the price and the best padded bag I've owned.
The everyday messenger might be good for a mirrorless system if you are using it for traveling. It's stylish enough to wear around without screaming "this guy has camera gear!" and be able to store some extras like a change of clothes or a snack. I think it's a neat bag, but $250 is too much for what I'm looking for.
Hi, Greetings from the UK, and thanks for all the info and your impressions on each bag. These impressions are obviously subjective but useful nonetheless. Maybe you could go through the manufacturers' suggestions for use before the video, so that you could evaluate / compare with your own thoughts in use. The Peak Design bag - now with 13" addition - maybe they watched this ;) was a case (sic) in point. They have spent many hours ensuring that all features have a reason to be there. I looked at the bag (no trigger pulled) and took the time to watch their videos on the design, and that waist strap does fit on quite simply after a few goes. But keep 'em coming. Cheers, Stephen, PS I have just bought a Hazard 4 Kato for my mirrorless kit. Well chuffed. A very different beast from your choices, but mine has to fit on my adventure bike tank, be waterproof(ish) and carry all my other stuff if I'm living out in the woods for a week or so.
I have the PeakDesign Messenger bag. I like it for it's features and since I already have the other Peakdesing products (Slide, capture and clutch) but once loaded with my gears (D810, 24-70 and 70-200) the messenger bag is just too heavy. I decided to just use the bag if I want to carry light and go all prime (28 1.4D and 85 1.4G combo and maybe a flash) or use it for work. I still prefer my Lowepro Protactic 450AW the one bag to carry all my stuff (2 bodies, 5 lenses and flash). I still use my trusty old Lowepro Flipside if I want to go zoom with 24-70, 70-200 and a flash. So, really no one bag fits all and depending on the day of shoot I'll decide what gears I will use and decide which bag to bring.
The Think Tank Retrospective series is probably one of the best messeger style formats out there. Lots of different sizes, different prices points depending upon size, tough as hell and covert as there is minimal branding. I've had several and I still own two, a 20 and a 40. The Peak Design bag interests me but it would to be lower in price for me to consider leaving my Think Tank bags behind.
Great video but if even those $100+ camera bags are just single stitched and not reinforced im definitely not interested. Im working on a project now to take military bags and turn them into camera bags. It may seem overkill but this is thousands of dollars in gear I want to protect so the container in which I convey them must be absolutely bombproof to turn a phrase. Im sorry but spending $140 on a pack only to see I couldve done a better stitch job does not fill me with confidence. Also how much does it really cost companies to put a rain cover with each bag? That should be standard by now.
I got my EDM Monday, and it has been >90% perfect for me as expected, even with my mirrorless system, I guess I really like gadgety things, though I really do use most of the "over the top" features (running with the bag, for example). You guys should watch the new instructional video, I think you misunderstood some of the features (obviously you weren't too thrilled with the volume of them in the first place.) Also, the capture clip is NOT free with a bag, just your review model.
I took one of my leather business bags (messenger styled) and put inside it a purpose-built $20 insert; which I'd bought off of eBay. Works like a charm. Also use the Peak Design clip...connected to the bag...which is pretty cool.
I absolutely love my ThinkTank Retrospective 5! I carry a 5D3, up to 3 lenses, Tiffen 4x4s, and ND filter, some extra batteries, and a few cables. It is small, but so well designed. They make the Retrospective in many sizes. Worth a look, especially because the quality is super high and I got mine for about $150.
+Ben McCartney +1 for the Think Tank Retro, I have the 7 and it is great. egads of storage and I don't think it looks like an obvious camera bag. The everyday messenger looks great, but I have to think thiefs the world over will know to look for that bag :(
+The End Horizon to each there own :) Not sure if you have seen that there are multiple SKUs/models of the retrospective. I have the retrospective 7 which could seem a bit man-pursey (holds my ipad in the back with no problem) but by the time you get up to the 50, it will take a gripped camera with a 70-200 attached. I have not seen that one in person, but I assume it is a monster. Sort of like Andre the Giants handbag I guess :)
👜Lowepro Urban Reporter ($60 on Amazon help.tc/reporter)
👜Adorama 24/7 Messenger ($80 on Amazon help.tc/247)
👜Everyday Messenger ($250 on Amazon help.tc/everyday). NOTE: This bag DOES NOT include the camera clasp or leash--those were extras that Peak Design included in our copy without us knowing.
👜Domke Herald ($300on Amazon help.tc/herald)
👜Ona Brixton ($440 on Amazon help.tc/onabrixton )
Vanguest tough built gear, envoy messenger bag @170.00 and the 511 rush delivery "Mike.,Lima and Xray" @ 120.00 beat these awkward mammoth Weiner bags all day every day.
Domke link doesn't work
This video was a little painful to watch. You had the strap backwards on the Everyday Messenger, some incorrect information, awkward presentation...
+David Vogt I intentionally reversed the strap... it's designed to be reversible.
Thanks for the reply, Tony. I've found reversing it to be a bit odd. And it definitely makes it awkward to clip in the stabilizing strap. I agree it's cumbersome to get it out of the little pocket.
+David Vogt Its my first time viewing their videos, but all I can say is, these are definitely some negative reviewers, they don't really seem to know their products. man, like u said it was painful to watch.
Yeah it was hard for me to watch as well. They kept saying "I think, maybe, it seems" so it sounded like they didn't know what they were talking about.
+junyo koh Agreed. Feels like Tony actually checked these out in advance and Chelsea is getting her first look at these. Both need to try them out, both need to rehearse what's good and bad about these. Worse, you rarely get to see what's in these bags. Put them on a table. Poor not the guts towards the camera. When reviewing, share with the audience, don't just show. And they really need to stop with the "ummm"'s.
I love how disgusted you guys seem through the whole video. That’s how I’m feeling right now with trying to make a decision.
IMO, you can't really go wrong with ONA bags. I've been using both the Camps Bay, and the Leather Prince Street. Expensive; but worth every penny. This is mainly because of the way ONA represents their bags. The way they market their bags and show them on social media are really ways to make you proud of owning one. If you have the bucks for it; it's really worth it.
The clip on the outside of the Everyday Messenger is designed for keys. You can clip them on and put them in the side pocket with no risk of losing them.
+David Vogt That makes no sense to me, as I already have a place for keys (my pocket). However, I figured out a good use for it--a backup strap for the camera you have in the (optional) holster... connect the backup strap anytime you won't be accessing your camera to protect it if it comes loose.
+Tony Northrup
the second strap is a messenger strap for cycling to stop the bag spinning as you ride
+Tony Northrup It's for those of us who wear skinny jeans. :P
How does it not make sense to you? Why would you carry your keys in your pocket, when you can have them in your bag? Why even have a bag, if you're just going to carry everything yourself :-P?
After getting the ONA Brixton for a gift, I now understand woman and their handbags. Love it. I put batteries and extra cards in small cases in the front pockets. They don't fall out.
My wife and I added the new Peak Design Everyday Messenger Bag to our collection. We both like them and they have become our go to bag for the Sony A7rII kits. When traveling by air we put our Macbook Pro 15" laptops and accessories in, but not for walking around. We find the bags a perfect size, I am 5'10" and my wife is 5'6." Any smaller and they would not work for our kits. We take our GuraGear 32 liter backpacks for our larger Canon gear. The Guras go in the overhead and the Peak Design bags fit under our seat.
For the Everyday Messenger, the small leash at the side pocket, I'm using it to hold my keys. Clasp in and store it in the pocket. My 15" MBP fits nicely into the bag. the stabiliser straps helps when cycling. ^^ Still awesome review you got there
I would say that the cross-strap on the peak everyday is essential if you're a cyclist. Messengers without that strap are almost impossible to ride a bike with.
I'm very surprised you didn't review the Tenba messenger bags.
4:35
Russian dolls are so full of themselves.
+Smaakjeks Kjeks And few youtubers ;)
Dalibor Mrkic
Russian dolls are full of youtubers? Oh no! Somebody let them out!
***** Can't, I'm stuck on Auto-play :)
+Smaakjeks Kjeks not at all. Russian dolls are so adorable. My family love them)
Hamilton100m
Aw, hehe, I was just making a silly joke is all. :-)
Nice review. Tamrac for me is the deal for many years, I have five, two from the 1980s still going strong.
I greatly appreciate your candor in this review, but what is equally evident is a lack of preparation. Others here have mentioned some of the mistakes and omissions...but for me the two most glaring both involve the Everyday Messenger:
1) You act perplexed regarding the side lanyard (which is specifically intended and explicitly marketed as being for keys or other small items, and not an actual dangling camera as you show).
2) You state the Capture Clip is included free with the bag...uh, no. While you can buy a bundled set with straps, clips, and two different bags...the Everyday Messenger itself is otherwise sold independently.
If in the course of a review you find yourself repeatedly saying the words "I don't know...", as you do here more times than I could count, then you should probably not consider yourself ready to post a credible review.
You might want to watch Peak Designs you tubes videos on the bag to appreciate some of the features, but some things I noticed:
-small tripods fit fine, they recommend just extending two legs and using the silicon band that comes in the zippered pocket
-the leash/clip on the pocket is mostly meant for keys, I don't think from their videos they intended to hand a camera from it at all...although you can use it to clip to the camera on capture to back it up like the cotton carrier, but that is a bit awkward
-I'm pretty sure the capture camera clip isn't included, at least it didn't come with mine.
-I think the bigger picture of the sliding trap is to go from messenger/biking style (high up on your back) to low lying or side carry.
-no need to cut the waist straps, they are removable.
-shooting with mirror less just gives you extra room for jackets and lunch
Still great video and nice look at some bags!
Looks like you were really struggling with the Everyday Messenger bag. I highly recommend taking a look at some of the videos Peak Design put out to explain how to use the straps. Those waist straps are fantastic and really save your back if you're out all day and need to take the weight off, but the way you tried it out was just a configuration for if you were on a bike and had the strap shortened.
I am using mine for a mirrorless outfit and it is big for that, but I like to have room for non-camera stuff if I'm running around the city all day. Hopefully they'll make a smaller bag next but for being their first I think they hit this one out of the park.
I love my ThinkTank Citywalker. I like how unassuming it looks and it holds a TON of gear for how compact it is.
I have the everyday messenger bag and its the sweet spot. Price, storage looks and practicality. I'm a Sony mirrorless user and this has heaps of room and everywhere I go people ask me about this bag. Peak Design FTW!
The Thinktank Retrospective series of messenger bags really are the perfect bags for carrying your gear around. So many different sizes. You can really load them up if you want to, and the shoulder pad is the most comfortable shoulder pad I've ever used. I like the look of them as well, nice but not too flashy like the Ona or Billingham bags when you want to be discreet. And they have pockets for just about everything. I have the Retro 10 in black and since then haven't needed to look for another camera bag, just love it.
hey Tony the adaroma and everyday messenger bag are meant to be worn higher on the back. That's why you have the side strap to hold it closer to your back. useful when your biking. think bike messenger.
I have the Everyday Messenger 13. Thankfully Peak Design has now made a smaller bag that fits my needs. My 13.5" Microsoft Surface Book laptop fits perfectly. And I now use a smaller Sony mirrorless camera. After many decades and myriads of bags, this one is my favorite by far.
"Tony you're so smart", this was a sweet video. The back and forth was really enjoyable.
Nice to see a review of the PD Messenger as worn by real people - so many reviews/articles have just shown it on a table, so lacking any real size comparison. They really do need to do a smaller one of those.
As messenger bags go, I've been using the Lowepro Event Messenger 250 for the last few years. It's smaller (and cheaper) than the Urban Reporter, but comfortably holds a 70-200, body with 24-70 or 24-105, a prime and/or a flashgun, which is all I need for shooting in convention halls/hotels/etc.
For more outdoorsy stuff I use a Tenba Shootout 24L backpack - it's one of few with a double entry, so you can keep a body with telephoto lens attached accessible through the bottom access zipper and another body with (for example) a 16-35 or 24-70 accessible near the top zipper. Saves annoying field lens changes in possibly inclement weather.
How about Billingham? I love Billingham, they're pretty good in my opinion. Doesn't look like a camera bag, well designed and I love their customer service. I bought mine in China and when I try to verify whether it is authentic or not, they can provide me with an exact production date after I send them some pictures of the bag and it's serial number. The best part is when the clip button on my bag snapped off, I try to reach their customer service again to ask about the service center location. Surprisingly, they send a replacement part all the way from UK, free of charge!
Thank you for the great video. I might go with the everyday messenger bag for quick lens change during the live events.
I am a fan of the everyday messenger bag and I just ordered mine. I think that might be the best bag in your review. Also it's not just a camera bag you can use it in other uses. it's probably one of the nicest and best bags out there today.
Thanks for all of the informative videos. I like the Domke bag that you guys are featuring. It seem simple and it has a classic look. I use and love the Peak Designs straps and connectors, but that bag is way to futuristic looking for my taste. And Peak Designs tried way too hard to fit connectors, clamps, straps and other expensive knick knacks. And the main turn off about that bag is the billet aluminum flap closure and its multiple metal bars. I personally do a lot of city and urban shooting and all of that metal just seems like a good way to scratch a parked car or a way to ruin wall finishes when indoors and furniture. My favorite bag is a Tenba DNA Messenger 15. I use it to carry my mirrorless kit, 1 Olympus Omd Em 5 Mk2, 40-150, a couple of primes. A Sony A6000, 10-18 wide zoom, 70-200, and a kit lens. It also holds plenty of batteries, and a flash. It has a modern Cordura Nylon exterior, plenty of padding, dividers, and pockets inside and out. 2 mesh outside end pockets for gloves and water bottles. It has 2 quick magnetic strap closures to secure the front flap. A luggage piggy back strap. A seat belt material shoulder strap and a well padded shoulder pad with grip material so it stays in place. And my favorite feature is the zippered quick access on the top of the flap so you don't have to open up the flap to pull out a lens or body. The front flap has side gussets to keep the elements out and it comes with a rain cover. Its pretty affordable, $170, which not to much considering its protecting my expensive gear.
Have you guys considered doing(if you didn't already) something similar for mirrorless cameras? Let's say for someone that has a Sony with some small lenses or even a Fuji or Olympus or something like that, what's some good bags for the smaller cameras and a few lenses or even just a mirrorless and a single lens?
I have bought numerous bags, some purpose made camera bags and some messenger bags repurposed. There is no ideal bag unless someone invents a magical bag of relatively small dimensions that accepts all the camera bodies, accessories, etc. That I want and magically lightens everything to less than 5 pounds :) Of course that's a dream so I try to find the ideal bag and I've gotten close with the ONA Street Prince bag. It holds the Leica M240 with the 50mm Summilux, the Leica Q with enough space for extra batteries, filters, the EVF and a few more small items. Also, the new 12" Macbook fits in perfectly. The 2 outside front pockets can carry more stuff as well. The rear pocket has a magnetic clasp which is very nice. It also has the leather handle and the shoulder strap with a pad. So far it's my favorite bag.
I like the Domke bags myself. Hey, also, the color in this video looked really nice!
Tony and Chelsea, thanks for your review of messenger bags.
As a working pro for over 40 years, I prefer a shoulder bag with top flap, compartments, dividers, pockets. For me it is important that everything is easily accessible while on my shoulder. When doing landscape photography, I don't want to set it down in the mud or bugs. And when doing travel/city photography, I want everything available for quick access, and where I can see and feel it to prevent theft. Separate organized dividers and pockets are crucial to keeping organized. A place for everything and everything in its place. Sun block, bug repellent, compass, whistle, magnifier, energy bar, water, speedlight, reflector, wireless trigger, etc, etc, etc. Clips snaps latches all must be one-hand operations. Velcro is not ok when you need to be quiet. Unfortunately, bag must be too large for Chelsea because D800 plus a few lenses and speedlight, and all other necessary doodads, etc are fairly large.
I have a 30-year-old Tamrack that's pretty good.
I prefer a cheap, incognito stealth design that looks like something that no one would want to steal or own. "Invisible" is best if you want to get real work done. Remove labels and logos.
Think Tank roller is pretty good for air travel, but not enough pockets.
My stealth mode case is a 5$ black canvas WalMart utlity case/purse with a front zipper pocket for small items, rear zipper pouch for releases. Just big enough to hold camera lens and speedlight. Great for where pros are unwelcome.
I'm a great fan of Billingham bags. They are similar to the Domke but have an English style with the leather and brass buckles and studs. I have the original Hadley, a 225 and a 445.
The messenger bags are favorites of hit and run thieves. They are so easy to grab and the thieves really appreciate your vauable professional camera gear.
They all look pale in comparison to my Billingham Hadley Pro : )
You guys should check it out Its like a tardis looks small but it fits canon 5dmk3, canon 50 1.2, sigma 85 1.4, canon 16-35 f4, YN568 EX II, and has plenty of space in the front pockets for all accessories ; ) batteries, memory cards, business cards, color targets, flashlights eneloops, lenspens and whatever else.
The Ona bag is made of leather and rather heavy by itself. Weighs more than my camera with kit lens. I like the Domke bag best, though the pink zippers look strange to me.
If you are a Street/Casual shooter ( someone who doesnt carry much gear) the Lowepro Terraclime 100 bag is worth checking out. Ive used one one for several years and it has held up very well. Also, it is made from 95% recycled plastic, which is nice!
the Temba Messenger bag is fantastic, they don't make it anymore, but it's still available on line. It has all the best features of each bag you reviewed. But it's all in one bag.
I purchased a Billingham 550 around 15 years ago and it's still in great condition. Earlier this year I added the smaller Hadley Pro. They are not cheap but have given my equipment great protection over the years. Excellent bags.
The strap where the camera hangs from is meant to be there incase you take the camera off the holder and it drops. The everyday messenger bag looks good although very costly and for what it holds not sure if it's worth it. Must admit though seeing from this it's bigger than I thought. Another thing that concerns me about these bags is the ease of access, if you had it to your back someone could easily gain access and steal your equipment, maybe I'm paranoid but security is something I take concern over.
What I want to know is when will somebody invent a camera bag with an anti-gravity lining, so its flaming contents don't weigh as much.
There was a negative tone throughout the video that brought the video down which is a shame. Whilst Tony is more informative and fairly balanced, I felt Chelsea was pessimistic to all. Body language and tones were negative. More than a healthy dose of scepticism. Shame as think there was a good about of information and coverage of a variety of bags, but this didn't really work for me. Hope this helps constructively going forward.
One Tech Traveller maybe what they tried to do is to cut all only positive stupidity that people says about how good such and such thing. I hate when they only write possitive reviews. Isn't there anybody out there with a different opinion? That's what I ask myself when I try to find the best product. However, keep in mind what they said at the beginning of the video: there is no thing such as the perfect bag because everyone needs something different.
One Tech Traveller to put it short. She is naggy
He is honest not negetive...
My favourite messenger style bag is my Billingham Hadley Pro. It looks great and holds a lot of gear without being too bulky. LIke Tony, I added a velcro memory card holder to keep things organized.
The everyday messenger is a great bag if you're a cyclist. (I cycle with it on a regular basis). It also fits a 15" retina with ease. (so no thick toshiba's Tony) :P
I think that the better option for a Lowepro bag would be the Compuday 150. I've had one for a few years now and I use that as an everyday bag that sometimes doesn't have a camera at all. It has a dedicated side-access compartment for a small-to-medium camera body and lens (I'm using a 6D with a Tamron 24-70/2.8 and that's about the largest lens/body it will fit) and a slot which fits most 15" laptops and enough space to have some other stuff. It lacks some dividers for extra lenses but with some creativity I'm certain that something suitable could be whipped up. There are provisions for memory cards and other gadgets. It's not the greatest looking bag in the world but it's definitely a bag that can blend in.
Bought a used Incase Ari Marcopulous for 40 bucks. Excellent camera bag, very comfortable to wear, lots of well thought out compartments inside, a nice tripod strap and it looks very nice too :)
For me, the "waist strap" on the Everyday Messenger is more useful for attaching to the handle bar of a small to medium sized suitcase. I doubt I'd use it much to attach to my body but for suitcases, it can be invaluable.
I couldn't care less about the bags I carry my stuff in, but that Everyday Messenger is seriously impressive. You guys own more bags in value then my dslr and lenses :o
Great review, I love my ONA Bowery, wouldn't want anything else than ONA. I carry it around on a daily basis, the buckles open and close with one hand (and almost silently). No one knows my camera is inside. I like your cald holder hack and will get one too. Only thing is the it doesn't come with more than one divider and I had to get an extra one to be able to carry two lenses and my mirrorless. It is the smallest Ona but will fit my a6000 with kit lens, and my Nikon d90 with 50mm. When I 'm doing streetphotography and I know I want to shoot wide and also want the option of having a f/1.8 I just jam them both in there and switch camera's. Will get the Brixton when my gear exceeds the bag. But for now I'm really pleased with it.
Hi Tony & Chelsea. The Tamrac Aria range is really good choice if you want something compact for mirrorless. They're available in all different sizes - I have two of them in different sizes and in the larger one I can carry my Sony A6000, with a 50mm lens, a 10-18mm lens and also my Panasonic GX7 with a 100-300mm lens.. There's space for some other bits and bobs inside too and it's nice and slim which I really like
Have you guys ever review think tank gear?
Hey Tony and Chelsea, Great review as always! To answer your question as to our bag preference, I find the thinkTANKPhoto Retrospective, Urban Design Classic 50, and the Tenba Messenger DNA 11, just about perfect for a mirrorless system such as the Fujifilm X-System. One thing I like about the Classic 50 and Messenger DNA bags, is the top-side zipper to allow quick and easy access to gear without opening the main flap. I also wanted to say that I really don't understand why a camera bag manufacturer would use metal "snap" closures! IMHO, it always takes two hands to fasten any snap (plus the extra time/effort to "line up" the two halves of the snap!), and that's why I find the zipper so much more appealing, not to mention more secure! I also applaud thinkTANKPhoto for use of high-quality YKK zippers. In any case (pardon the pun), thanks for your always informative reviews, and Happy Fourth!
I'm a hoarder of messenger bags - I've been searching for the unicorn of bags. The Lowepro Messenger 160 AW is a smaller one, if the Lowepro Urban Reporter is too big. The Timbuktu camera messenger bags are uncomfortable if you add more than a camera and single lens as the strap digs into the shoulder - unless you get the small. There's no real storage for memory cards, batteries, cleaning cloths etc either. I'm a big fan of Peak Design's Everyday messenger, and would be the pick of the ones I own, but I also recommend the Crumpler Haven pouch for throwing inside other bags if you don't want to look like you're carrying a camera bag
The best bag I have found so far is an old fabric army medic bag. It is light, durable and does not look like a camera bag. With a couple modifications it holds all I need for a day of shooting. I have a variety of Think Tank and Lowepro bags, they stay home most days.
A clarification on the PeakDesign bag. It does NOT come with the capturePro. Tony got a press release package that came with a few peak design 'goodies'. Rest assured that us regular consumers will ONLY get the bag when making the 250 USD purchase.
EDIT:
Ohh I see the annotations correct this. You also mention the leash, which is actually never pictured in the video. People might be confused with the 'leash' that you also attached a camera to as a 'leash'. It's more meant for keys or something, and the other end if permanently fixed to the bag.
The Everyday Messenger has my vote. I love the magnetic closure.
Tony, hate to point it out, but the Peak Design camera clip doesn't come free with the bag. Maybe yours did for the review, but it's not part of the package. Also the main strap was installed backwards.
+Brent Rivers Yeah, I added an annotation to this effect. It was really weird of them to attach it to the bag before shipping it to me and not mention that it wasn't included... The bag was otherwise in its original packaging, with tags and everything.
I turned the strap inside-out (it's reversible) so that the rubber side would be on my shoulder. The other way, it kept slipping off. That seemed like a really bizarre design choice.
+Tony Northrup Oops, sorry, I didn't see it in the notes (didn't look at the notes). I agree the anti slip material should have been on the inside of the strap from the beginning. It seemed to offer a bit of a struggle being reversed when trying to pull the side strap up to the hook loop. It will be interesting to see how this bag holds up, but it's simplified my 3 backpacks, 2 of which can't carry my laptop.
+Tony Northrup The reason the strap is reversible is precisely to be able to use both way. You use the side that slide easier if you're using it as a messenger bag and you need to quickly move it back and forth while using it. You use the non-slip side if you are using it as a shoulder bag. The design is based on their Slide camera Strap. It all in their literature and videos.
"Seatbelt-style webbing with internal padding has smooth and grippy sides, letting it glide over any clothing or stay put exactly where you want it: back, hip or front."
Let me add, as a constructive criticism, that while your reviews are great and very informative, at times they seems like you are unaware of basic information about the product that could be easily prevented by reading the material on the product page or asking the manufacturer about it. Such is the case with the case of the Everyday Messenger. An extremely well thought out and well designed and constructed bag was made to look poorly design by your ignorance of the product.
+Tony Northrup Actually its reversible feature is for left or right handed use, not inside or out. To use the grippy side of the strap, you just flip (twist the strap). As others have pointed out, it's meant to slide, from your back to side to front easily. But if you want the bag to "stick" you twist the strap.
As others have mentioned, either read the tags (booklets) that came with the bag to know the features or check out PD videos.
There's a plethora of excellent camera bags - Think Tank, LowePro, Tenba, etc., but the Peak Design (especially the Everyday pack you showcased) is probably My favourite - at least one of.
As you said, the dividers are what are important. You can MAKE them from foam and a material of your choice and a cheap sewing machine. (bribe Grandma) This way they are custom to what you need for each body/lens. And I have used tool bags from Large home improvement stores, they are sturdy and come priced right. But the best bags I have fabricated are Shooting bag based. Also many sizes and styles your custom lens dividers and a shooting bag is my everyday bag! $40! I am also making my bag look like (not a camera bag) Sew your own dividers for lenses and bodies and transfer them to the bag of the day. (Also sew in a outside pocket for a card, a filter, a hood or whatever for each product, so when you grab it, you also have what goes with it. I am shocked at what they are asking for bags, most likely made by cheap labor abroad.
Everyday Messenger additional strap is great when you are cycling.
Hunched down, the bag tends to drop to the front , thus preventing you
from cycling.
The small straps holds the bag to your back
+Maxim Mee
Agreed. I may be mistaken, but I thought messenger bag referred to "bicycle messenger". When riding a bike bent over, messenger bags tend to swing around to the front. A stabilization strap is a nice addition.
Funny (and informative) to re-watch this video 5 years after :)
I do wish you guys would do more bag reviews, well gear in general I guess, while a tripod and a head has not changed much over the years, some new players have arrived on the scene and perhaps it could be something to consider for 2020.
New on to the next video on messenger/shoulder bags.
I have the ONA. But I use it everyday as my regular bag and occasionally use it for my X-T1, X100T and a couple lenses. One thing I couldn't get past was the quality of the Italian leather, but bear in mind it does scratch up really fast, it is designed to do that. So if you aren't into that you'd probably be better looking else where.
Hey, why was Billingham bags not on this list? They make some really awesome, well thought out bags. Thought they'd at least get a mention.
I have a 1st gen Timbuk2 Snoop Camera bag. It's a messenger bag with a camera insert. When I go minimalist, I have my camera with one lens that I put in a small messenger bag that has just enough room for it and a few accessories. I have two such messenger bags, and they are pretty much purses. They are not padded, but they offer more protection than having the camera hang off a strap.
I like the honest reviews. I have the Everyday Messenger, and I find it very useful for carting all my gear. I've learned to only half-fill it though, because it is massive. Whenever I travel it becomes my carry-on bag
Nice review C&T! I've an original Domke F2; navy with tan trim, that was purchased in 1978 and it's still my multi-body choice, it can manage two pro bodies and 4-5 lenses, plus goodies. For smaller sets of gear it's either a TTP Retrospective 7 or an older Lowepro Messenger AW200. The latter two bags were put in service in early 2014, the old Domke is still my fave :)
I am a proud Ona Brixton bag owner and user. Love the look, perfect for my weddings. I love the fact that it does not look like a camera bag. For weddings and engagements I use it as a "shooter" bag to carry just the three lenses I need while I shoot. I think is the right size and look for weddings.
I am considering adding the everyday messenger bag by Peak Design to be used for travel. Because I switched to the Sony Mirrorless system, my current backpack has become to big.
Thinktank Retrospective 50 blue slate cotton canvas. Just love it. The looks, the quality and what is the most important, easy access to the gear.
Thanks for the review guys... very informative. I have the Urban Reporter and I disagree about the size... I think the size is just right. I have my 7D with 24-105 in there and there is room for my 70-300, 10-22 and a couple of speed lights... everything I need for an extensive walk around shoot. The second flap on the internal liner is not a big issue... I've tucked mine down the back and, to be truthful, I'd even forgotten it was there. I do agree entirely about the awkward fasteners... they are a pain!
Lowepro do have a bag that has Velcro fasteners that grip really tightly but are noisy! You can fold a flap over to cover them and magnetic catches come into play... not as secure but also a lot quieter. That is a great system. Wish they'd applied it to this bag.
I love and use the LowePro Flipside backpacks. There's no external access, so pickpockets can't get into it while you're wearing it, and you can put the belt on and flip it around in front of you, so you have a work surface with your gear on it while you're in the field. Great when you don't have a clean surface to swap out lenses.
Nice review guys, very practical advice and well done. You should look at the Think Tank Retrospective series. I love the Retrospective 20 it fits a pro DSLR, flash and the holy trinity very well. Also, I definitely agree with your review on the Lowepro, but it must be emphasized that they make much better messenger bags. Look at their passport series.
I use a grocery bag sometimes XD
I use a Chrome Mini Metro as my daily driver bag, not the most ideal for cameras but it can work. I commute by bike, Chrome is wholeheartedly a bike messenger bag company. The ergonomics are tuned for comfort and stability while riding. It's built like a tank and has served me well for a long time.
I bought a weekend bag from TJ Maxx, then purchased a manufactured padded insert for the inside. Works for me AND it's fashionable. lol
I've thought about getting a messenger. The Peak Design looks like it would suit my needs pretty well. But, honestly, I can't really justify the expense. I'm currently using a Tamrac Evolution 8 and it's been the perfect camera backpack for me so far.
I just got the timbuk2 snoop camera messenger, quick adjustable strap is quite useful. Can be used as a normal messenger bag too, which is pretty cool and it doesn't look like a camera bag.
Think Tank all the way. I use the Retrospective 20 which can carry a full DSLR with 70-200 attached, along with extra lens, flash, etc. Pricey but I've been very happy with it.
Occasionally I carry my camera in my regular backpack, especially situations when I don't want my camera bag to get beer soaked (stadiums) or when I want to carry a bunch of other, non camera stuff too.
Tenba DNA (11,13 or 15) are pretty good too and have good design ! :) Awesome review .. as always !
Hi Tony,
You said the capture comes free with the everyday messenger bag @ 9:22, is that true? I was not able to find any details any where that would say so.
I have the Tenba Messenger Mini for my mirrorless system camera/lenses when I'm travelling. I'm 5'8" male and it's the perfect size for me. It's lightweight so it doesn't add a lot to the overall mass you need to carry. It's been my favorite bag so far.
Tenba shootout backpack 24L, $379.99 cnd, is all I use at the moment. It's comfortable to wear and carries all the gear I usually need. Great vlog guys :)
I'm partial to the Ape Case backpacks. They're tough, have nice customizable padded dividers, plenty of compartments, and even a hidden raincover if you get caught in a storm and need to keep your stuff dry. Around $100-$120.
I love my ThinkTank gear! I use the Retrospective 20 the most, but I also have the Urban Disguise 35 V2.0 which also holds my MacBook 13". Great bags!
I would advise against such a heavy grade on a video where you are showing off a product like this. Its pretty hard to tell what the actual bags look like when this faded/magenta thing going on.
I have Lowepro Urban Reporter and it is great for air travel as an carry-on. Two straps on it are easy to use for me, but maybe not everybody is dextrous as I am.
Three years with my Peak Everyday Messenger. It is a very good bag.
I have a Think Tank Photo bag, I think it's the Retrospective 50. Fits a 13" laptop + whatever lens / body combo I can imagine to put in it. What I love about it is that it doesn't have any visible logos etc. It is sodding heavy though. I'm looking to buy a backpack next for traveling with my camera.
I like your description on Peak Design's bag...and like all their other stuff, they all look great, sounds great and always enticed me to get them and i have gotten every single Peak Design item they ever sold and am still buying their newer stuff..The ONLY problem is, i'm not actually using ANY of their stuff..i just can't find a use practical enough for any of their stuff..but somehow they've alwasy managed to convince me that maybe this new product is something i will use
I just use a backpack. I love it but I do see some good benefits to a dedicated camera bag. I have been looking into bags of all types (backpacks, messenger, sling). All have some features I really like and all have some aspect I don't like. Usually the styling is big negative in them.
I am intrigued by the Peak Design. Not sure about the styling there. Nice looking in a geeky way but it stands out. I want a bag that looks nice but doesn't scream look at me! I like the external features of the Everyday Messenger but the internal ones, don't seem a big deal for it's size. And it is expensive for something, I am not sure if I would be wowed over.
The problem with spending money on the more expensive ones is that after having bought one, I might still need another bag to use in other situations.I don't mind spending good money on a bag that is the one bag for me. To be honest, if I had the money. I would buy lots of them and just enjoy them all since none are the perfect fit. Kind of like shoes for some people. . LOL.
I wonder if someone would create a truly customisable bag. One where you could choose the basic form, the material, then what extra features and compartments to add, what clasps or sippers to add. Yeah, I know it could get very expensive, but if it was the bag that truly lasts you and works perfect for you, then the price would be worth it.
So it looks like I am staying with my backpack for now. Thinking about adding internal padding and compartments. Are you guys still thinking of doing a backpack refit video?
Hi Tony and Chelsea. You guys missed a few good and inexpensive bags, which are very popular. Including, but not limited to the Temba line, I have an older model Messenger Mini, which is great, and kind of looks like the Everyday Messenger, and costs a third. Other very popular are the Think Tank line, and on the luxury side, you missed a very popular and highly regarded bag, the Billingham Hadley Pro. I believe you should do a part 2 review of bags, and include some of them.
Cheers
For everyday use I love my Billingham Hadley Pro. It holds everything I would need for a normal day of shooting. If I'm on an event with two cameras and simply need something to put additional lenses in, I use the Think Tank Turnstyle 10. If I just take a camera with two lenses it can even be used for everyday use.
Tony,
Please share with us what the brand name and model of your wrist watch, preferably with a link.
bought the Matin balade 200 last week after watching a CZcams review, great looking bag amazing quality for the price and the best padded bag I've owned.
The everyday messenger might be good for a mirrorless system if you are using it for traveling. It's stylish enough to wear around without screaming "this guy has camera gear!" and be able to store some extras like a change of clothes or a snack. I think it's a neat bag, but $250 is too much for what I'm looking for.
Hi,
Greetings from the UK, and thanks for all the info and your impressions on each bag.
These impressions are obviously subjective but useful nonetheless.
Maybe you could go through the manufacturers' suggestions for use before the video, so that you could evaluate / compare with your own thoughts in use.
The Peak Design bag - now with 13" addition - maybe they watched this ;) was a case (sic) in point.
They have spent many hours ensuring that all features have a reason to be there.
I looked at the bag (no trigger pulled) and took the time to watch their videos on the design, and that waist strap does fit on quite simply after a few goes.
But keep 'em coming.
Cheers,
Stephen,
PS I have just bought a Hazard 4 Kato for my mirrorless kit. Well chuffed. A very different beast from your choices, but mine has to fit on my adventure bike tank, be waterproof(ish) and carry all my other stuff if I'm living out in the woods for a week or so.
I have the PeakDesign Messenger bag. I like it for it's features and since I already have the other Peakdesing products (Slide, capture and clutch) but once loaded with my gears (D810, 24-70 and 70-200) the messenger bag is just too heavy. I decided to just use the bag if I want to carry light and go all prime (28 1.4D and 85 1.4G combo and maybe a flash) or use it for work. I still prefer my Lowepro Protactic 450AW the one bag to carry all my stuff (2 bodies, 5 lenses and flash). I still use my trusty old Lowepro Flipside if I want to go zoom with 24-70, 70-200 and a flash. So, really no one bag fits all and depending on the day of shoot I'll decide what gears I will use and decide which bag to bring.
The Think Tank Retrospective series is probably one of the best messeger style formats out there. Lots of different sizes, different prices points depending upon size, tough as hell and covert as there is minimal branding.
I've had several and I still own two, a 20 and a 40. The Peak Design bag interests me but it would to be lower in price for me to consider leaving my Think Tank bags behind.
Great video but if even those $100+ camera bags are just single stitched and not reinforced im definitely not interested. Im working on a project now to take military bags and turn them into camera bags. It may seem overkill but this is thousands of dollars in gear I want to protect so the container in which I convey them must be absolutely bombproof to turn a phrase. Im sorry but spending $140 on a pack only to see I couldve done a better stitch job does not fill me with confidence. Also how much does it really cost companies to put a rain cover with each bag? That should be standard by now.
I got my EDM Monday, and it has been >90% perfect for me as expected, even with my mirrorless system, I guess I really like gadgety things, though I really do use most of the "over the top" features (running with the bag, for example). You guys should watch the new instructional video, I think you misunderstood some of the features (obviously you weren't too thrilled with the volume of them in the first place.)
Also, the capture clip is NOT free with a bag, just your review model.
Think Tank Retrospective 7....perfect size and extremely well built and stitched.
I took one of my leather business bags (messenger styled) and put inside it a purpose-built $20 insert; which I'd bought off of eBay. Works like a charm. Also use the Peak Design clip...connected to the bag...which is pretty cool.
I absolutely love my ThinkTank Retrospective 5! I carry a 5D3, up to 3 lenses, Tiffen 4x4s, and ND filter, some extra batteries, and a few cables. It is small, but so well designed. They make the Retrospective in many sizes. Worth a look, especially because the quality is super high and I got mine for about $150.
+Ben McCartney +1 for the Think Tank Retro, I have the 7 and it is great. egads of storage and I don't think it looks like an obvious camera bag. The everyday messenger looks great, but I have to think thiefs the world over will know to look for that bag :(
+Brian Irwin another +1 for the ThinkTank bags.
+Ben McCartney I was going for the retro but went turnstyle instead. The retro is awesome and beautiful though :D
+The End Horizon to each there own :) Not sure if you have seen that there are multiple SKUs/models of the retrospective. I have the retrospective 7 which could seem a bit man-pursey (holds my ipad in the back with no problem) but by the time you get up to the 50, it will take a gripped camera with a 70-200 attached. I have not seen that one in person, but I assume it is a monster.
Sort of like Andre the Giants handbag I guess :)
Thinktank Retro series. I have the 50 and its a little big, but I really like it. Biggest gripe is how it falls forward when loaded.