Need help deciding on a bag

[drchrisdvm2009]

Hi everyone, I'm VERY new to SLR (got my first camera about 2 weeks ago and promptly joined POTN)

I'm not really sure what I like to shoot yet (I kinda like to shoot everything) which is why I purchased a variety of lenses that I would also like to take with me (and keep them safe).

Here is what I have so far: Rebel XSi, 18-55 IS (Kit lens), 75-300, 50 1.8, 70-200L F4, 100-400L 4.5-5.6, Sigma 150 Macro, 580EX II, generic slave flash.

Is there anything that will accomodate everything and be reasonable to carry (wheel) around? I have been looking at the Pelican series and thought they were quite nice, but unsure about usability or of there is something better. I think I would like to keep either the 100-400 or the 70-200 mounted on the camera.

Thanks so much!

Chris

[Jon]

I'd suggest you mostly don't try to carry all of it around unless you're going to need all of it. For starters, the 75-300 is redundant. Both the 70-200 and the 100-400 will do everything it does, and better.

The Domke F-2 or F-4 will take all that (the F-2 will even let you carry the 75-300 as well) easily. http://www.tiffen.com/results.html?search_type_no=430&tablename=domke&family=Domke%20Camera%20Bags&page_no=2
With the F-4AF, you can carry the camera and either of your L lenses vertically; if you use the F-2 you'll need to lie the body & lens on their sides; I use the 720-230 (http://www.tiffen.com/displayproduct.html?tablename=domke&itemnum=720-230) 3-compartment insert in my bags.

But if you want to stay hooked on photography, don't try to take everything with you until you're well and truly addicted. A camera and a couple of lenses (mostly the 18-55 and 70-200) will be plenty 90% of the time and a lot lighter.

[12 Wyoming]

But, on the other hand, don't buy too small of a bag either. Do you want to take a laptop along? There are soo many variables. You have to decide what your needs are for the long haul, and buy for that.

[tvphotog]

Check the Tamrac Expedition line of backpacks, if you're going to carry everything. Very well padded straps and very well made.