How to Choose a Camera Backpack for Photography

Among the array of essential tools that every photographer needs, the camera backpack remains a vital piece of kit for photographers of all levels.

Finding the right one for you is crucial, especially in the world of nature photography, where you might find yourself covering long distances on foot and carrying a sizeable amount of precious gear!

Whether you focus on landscape, wildlife, macro photography, or a combination of all three, in this article, we’ll look at the various factors you’ll need to consider when purchasing a new camera backpack.

Read more: 8 Best Camera Backpacks for Photography

Where to buy camera backpacks

The market for camera backpacks is huge, with existing companies bringing out new models regularly and new companies seemingly springing up out of nowhere.

The most obvious places to buy are online, with reputable shops such as Wex Photo Video, Park Cameras, and London Camera Exchange stocking a variety of different brands and models.

For those on a budget, buying used can offer a far more cost-effective solution, but be sure to look carefully at the description and condition of the item.

After all, a camera backpack will be carrying expensive items of equipment, so avoid any packs that look heavily worn, as the stitching can become weak and weather resistance will inevitably be compromised.

What to look for when choosing a camera backpack

As photography has evolved with many technological advancements, the options for camera backpacks have grown considerably.

There are now a myriad of companies offering a range of designs and features to cater to every photographer’s needs.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, finding the perfect camera backpack will make your life easier when out in the field and, most importantly, keep your camera, lenses, and accessories as safe and secure as possible.

Here are some of the main factors and features to consider:

1. Front or rear access

One of your first considerations is whether you would prefer a front or rear opening backpack. Packs that open from the rear would be my recommendation – they have gained huge popularity and for good reason.

Back panel access gives the user the freedom of putting the backpack on the ground without fear of getting the straps and the back of the bag muddy or dirty.

Being able to unzip the entire back of the pack also offers quick and easy access to gear. A rear-access pack is invaluable for those moments when reaction time is crucial, which is often the case in wildlife photography.

Although I prefer rear access backpacks, a well-designed front access pack may also be worth considering.

There are bags on the market, such as the Manfrotto PL Frontloader Backpack, that feature a handy side pocket allowing quick access to gear.

Going one step further, Think Tank’s Rotation 22L backpack includes a rotating belt pack that allows immediate camera access without needing to remove the backpack at all.

2. Size and capacity

When choosing the size and capacity of your next bag, you’ll need to determine the amount of gear that you typically carry for your nature photography trips.

Consider the size of your camera body/bodies, lenses, tripod, accessories, and any personal items that you may need. Your backpack should have enough space to accommodate all of your gear comfortably.

If you are taking your backpack overseas, you will also need to check the carry-on luggage size restrictions for airline flights.

If your specialty is macro or landscape photography, you are unlikely to be carrying long telephoto lenses, so you may be able to opt for a smaller pack.

Determining the maximum amount of equipment you would ever need to carry at one time is a good first step, and make sure that you only look at backpacks that can comfortably hold that amount of gear.

Top Tip: As is often the case for nature photographers, I often find myself having to react quickly to a situation. If I have to open my bag and then start to attach a camera body to my lens, the chances are I have already missed the shot. So, if your specialty is wildlife photography, like mine, you will need to make sure the bag is big enough to fit your largest lens, preferably with a camera body attached.

3. Consider the photographic climate

As a nature photographer who loves to shoot in extreme weather conditions, it is imperative for me to have a backpack that is both weatherproof and hard-wearing.

If your specialty is macro photography, for instance, and you are more of a fair-weather photographer, this may not be as important to you.

When it comes to weather resistance, however, I would always advise you to err on the side of caution if you are a nature photographer of any kind.

You never know when bad weather might hit, and your backpack should be able to cope with heavy rain without allowing any moisture to seep through to the inside.

Most camera backpacks come with a rainproof cover, either built into the bag itself or as a separate item. This feature is imperative for any outdoor photographer.

4. Feel, comfort, and fit

Nature photography often requires hiking over long distances, sometimes over tricky terrain. For this reason, it is crucial that your backpack feels as comfortable as possible.

Padded shoulder straps and back padding make a big difference when it comes to carrying your gear for extended periods, especially over challenging ground, and can drastically reduce the risk of pain and fatigue.

A breathable back panel and an adjustable waist belt and sternum strap will also help to distribute weight and ensure that the pack feels as comfortable as possible, so you may want to look out for these features when purchasing a new pack.

We all have different body shapes and sizes, though, so if possible, try on any potential contenders in-store with weight to ensure that it distributes the load evenly and fits your body well.

If you are buying online, this may not be possible, so ensure that the retailer (or individual if you are buying used) has a returns policy, should you find the pack unsuitable for your needs.

Read more: 6 Top Tips for Hiking Photography

5. Functionality

Functionality is important in the realm of camera bags. Almost all camera backpacks will include modular dividers allowing for customizable compartments, ensuring that every piece of gear has its designated place and is safe from the bumps and jostles of transit.

A well-designed bag, however, should not only accommodate your camera bodies and lenses but also offer ample storage for accessories like batteries, memory cards, filters, and even a laptop or tablet for on-the-go editing.

Extra pockets for such items should be well-padded and separated to avoid items knocking into each other and potentially causing damage.

Some bag brands, such as F-stop, feature removable inserts that can be changed out at will, depending on the amount of gear you need to carry at any given time. Others boast innovative features like hidden compartments for valuables or built-in tripod holders for added convenience.

In the digital age, where photographers are constantly on the move, connectivity has become a defining feature of many modern camera bags. Some models integrate charging ports and cable management systems, allowing photographers to power up their devices while out in the field.

Depending on your needs, this could be something to consider, especially if you regularly find yourself on longer shoots or if you are a travel photographer.

6. Durability

For any type of outdoor photography, durability is an essential attribute. Whether braving the elements in rugged landscapes, shooting by the coast, or wandering the wilderness in the depths of winter, you should be able to rely on your bag to shield your precious equipment from the elements.

Look for high-quality materials in the bag descriptions, such as rip-stop nylon, reinforced stitching, and weather-resistant coatings, to help ensure that your gear remains safe and secure, no matter the conditions.

Look for bags made of hard-wearing fabric with weatherproof zips and, as mentioned before, at least a rainproof cover to ensure that your gear is kept safe and dry. It is also worth checking your bag company’s warranty policy when you purchase it.

In conclusion

Choosing a camera backpack that best suits your individual needs can seem like a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. After all, its job is to transport expensive camera gear safely while remaining as functional and practical as possible.

It is a vital tool that every photographer should have ultimate confidence in. Make sure to do plenty of research and try out as many options as possible. Good luck with your search!