Bag that doesn't look like a Camera Bag

[stargazer78]

Can anyone suggest a shoulder bag that does not look like a camera bag? I would like for it to hold my 5D with 24-105L mounted, plus a 17-40L and a 35L. I don't need it to be any bigger than that.

I am currently using a Crumpler Five Million Dollar Home bag. It's an excellent bag, unfortunately it can only hold 1 lens in addition to the one already mounted to my 5D. I wish the bag was slightly wider so I could fit another lens in there.

I have looked into the Six Million Dollar Home. Unfortunately, in addition to making it wider... Crumpler has also made it thicker. The extra thickness is a dead giveaway that it's a camera bag. Since I don't use battery grips, I don't see the need for a thick bag.

Any suggestions?

[FlyingPhotog]

I recently aquired a Lowepro Classified 200 AW and it's a really handy bag.

I don't do a lot of urban, walking around type of photography but I've used it on a couple portrait sessions where I've only needed a body and maybe three or four lenses and it's been great!

Outer pockets (hidden under a flap) are big enough that I can fit a 580EXII and a Sekonic meter in one and misc stuff in the other.

Bag is deep enough to hold a MkIII + 24-70L ready to shoot or a 70-200 hood reversed.

IMO, it's worth checking out.

[Abyssgh0st]

Have you checked out the Crumpler Karachi Outpost?

Link. (https://www.crumplerbags.com/flash/flash.aspx#/english/product-details/karachi-outpost-ko03a.html)


EDIT: +1 to the Lowepro AW 200, that is my current bag.

[Habu]

Hello from France

You can give a look to ThinkTank Retrospective serie...

http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/retrospective-10-pinestone-shoulder-bag.aspx

Sincerely yours

Habu

[Jonathan Taylor]

I hate threads like this. If the reason you're looking for a bag that doesnt look like a bag is because you're wary of thieves, then dont use a camera bag. "Professional" Thieves know how to identify bags based on shape, logos, etc. Just as we can walk down the street and typically point out what brand of bag or camera someone is using from a distance.

Here's my set up:
I bought a Lowepro beltback (http://products.lowepro.com/product/Off-Trail-2,1981,7.htm), about 75 bucks retail. Holds my Gripped 7D with 70-200 attached, a 17-50 2.8, a 50 1.4, and a flash, waterbottle, or similar sized lens or lens combo. You can also go with the Off-Trail 1 if you need something a wee bit smaller. The 2 cases on the side of the holster can be removed or moved around to your liking. a very versatile bag for a low price. It can either be worn around the waist, or with a strap.

Now, to disguise it?

I wrap the belt around the entire case, tighten, and buckle, so the belt completely hugs the pack. Then it slips perfectly inside of:
http://www.armysurpluswarehouse.com/product/classic-messenger-bag-4222.cfm (available at every surplus store/website i've ever been to, usually in gray, olive, or black canvas, for between 17 and 21 bucks)

Sometimes I slide a heavier shoulder pad from another one of my straps if I'm going to be carrying it for long, but nonetheless, it's completely incognito. No identifiable logos, and its VERY easy to shoot out of.

Just my 2 cents.

[Rey]

I don't think a thicker Crumpler bag is a dead giveaway that it is a camera bag. I brought my 8MDH in to work one day and my co-workers thought it was a diaper bag. LOL.

[Jon]

Gripped or ungripped 5D? Ungripped, get a Domke F-803, which looks pretty much like any canvas messenger bag. Or maybe the Domke F-5XC.

[Houston1863]

Without doing some sums and trying it out since I'm not sure about the dimensions of the 5D/24-105 combination but the Think Tank Urban Disguise 40 will certainly carry that body ( in either of its' 2 front pockets ), all those lenses and more besides within a compact package and look like an ordinary shoulder bag. It also comes with a weatherproof cover and a wallet for CF, SD and business cards.

This is easily my favorite of all the bags I've used over the past 30 yrs!!!


Good hunting

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[hfgarris]

Big issue will be whether or not you have a grip on your camera ... that really eliminates a lot of the smaller thin bags.

A nice looking, small bag which will hold all that is the Billingham Hadley Pro. I carry a 5D-II, 35L, 24-105L, and 135L plus 1.4XTC and tiny 270EX flash. I can also carry it with the 5D-II, 24-105L, 17-40L, and 70-200L/4, but not with the longer telephoto mounted to the camera.

A Think Tank Urban Disguise 30, or 40 will also work well. The UD-30 is really compact!

Domke F-5XC will hold it, as will their messenger bags. Check out the ruggedwear/waxwear finish when you are looking, they are nice!

-howard

edit: on re-reading your post I see that you are un-gripped.

[yourdoinitwrong]

I use a ThinkTank Urban Disguise 70 Pro for my gripped 7D. If you don't use a grip you can check out the rest of the Urban Disguise lineup to see what works best for you. Some hold laptops and some don't. ThinkTank makes very high quality bags, though they aren't inexpensive.

http://www.thinktankphoto.com/categories/shoulder-camera-bags.aspx

[RDKirk]

I hate threads like this. If the reason you're looking for a bag that doesnt look like a bag is because you're wary of thieves, then dont use a camera bag. "Professional" Thieves know how to identify bags based on shape, logos, etc. Just as we can walk down the street and typically point out what brand of bag or camera someone is using from a distance.

They can which bags contain valuable items by watching how you handle it. Remember that valuable items like laptops are also in many different kinds of bags, so they aren't looking just for "camera" bags. They can tell how you handle the bag whether it conains something valuable or just your underwear.

[hfgarris]

They can which bags contain valuable items by watching how you handle it. Remember that valuable items like laptops are also in many different kinds of bags, so they aren't looking just for "camera" bags. They can tell how you handle the bag whether it conains something valuable or just your underwear.

Of course, as is usually pointed out on these type threads, as soon as you pull out your camera to take a shot ... the deception is over and you have exposed your hand! Even a diaper bag with one hanging out the side won't hide the fact that that is really your camera in there.

-howard

[Jonathan Taylor]

They can which bags contain valuable items by watching how you handle it. Remember that valuable items like laptops are also in many different kinds of bags, so they aren't looking just for "camera" bags. They can tell how you handle the bag whether it conains something valuable or just your underwear.

But a thief who makes his living from that isn't going to take the risk of stealing a bag of underwear from someone who handles their bag nicely.

And of course once that camera comes out, you're exposed. completely defeating the purpose of having a specialized camera bag that's made not to look like one. I think the purpose of having that type of bag is to conceal, and relatively protect, the goods while in open transport.

I personally love the look of either a VERY discreet camera bag (something about a beat-up canvas bag is just attractive to me) , as well as a very obvious camera bag (such as most lowepro bags, the stealth reporter series in particular, especially for use at more professional events where the risk of theft is highly unlikely).

Not trying to create an argument, just giving my personal opinion, while at the same time giving the original poster another inexpensive, versatile, and very discreet option.

[RDKirk]

But a thief who makes his living from that isn't going to take the risk of stealing a bag of underwear from someone who handles their bag nicely.

It's not a risk. As I said, they can tell by how you handle the bag that something valuable is in it. For instance, people drop clothing bags to the floor from waist level--nobody does that with a bag containing a laptop or camera. Once a thief sees you ease your bag gently to the floor, he's got you marked--something inside is valuable.

The best thing is to presume thieves always know what you're carrying and never let it be easily accessible to them.

[Jonathan Taylor]

The best thing is to presume thieves always know what you're carrying and never let it be easily accessible to them.

amen.

[stargazer78]

Thank you all for the suggestions. I googled every single bag suggested here, unfortunately most of them can't match my 5MDH in its slim profile (5.5" thick).

The ones that piqued my interest were the Billingham Hadley Pro and the Urban Disguise. I'm a little perplexed by their interior dimensions though. The interior thickness is only 3.75" for the Billingham and 4.25" for the Urban Disguise. The 5D without grip is 4.5" tall. Unfortunately, those bags will probably require I take the lens off the 5D... which is a dealbreaker for me. :(

I have been looking for a proper bag to replace my Crumpler 5MDH for over a year now. In fact, this isn't the first time I've asked this question in a forum. The search goes on, I suppose... :)

@RDkirk & @Jonathan --- I don't think anybody is saying that a discreet camera bag is completely fool proof. But I think everyone can agree that an obtuse bag that draws attention to itself is more likely to catch the attention of would-be thieves, than one that doesn't. The 5MDH is amazing in that regard. I've taken it to some of the crowded, crime infested cities and subways in Asia without feeling uncomfortable. I would use an ordinary bag for the job, except they lack the padding & configurability of a proper camera bag.

[hfgarris]

When I saw the dimensions for the Hadley Pro, I wondered how any camera gear would fit in there. Only through the insistence of other members here did I finally get the courage to order one to see for myself if it would fit. And fit it does! It is a very nice looking bag and very small and thin.

I carry my 5D-II mounted to a 35L, 24-105L, 135L, 1.4xTC, and a little 270EX flash in the main compartment. The front pockets are empty unless I want to put the charger, spare batteries, filters, memory, etc. there. I can also carry a different lens set of: 17-40L, 24-105L, and 70-200L IS f/4 with the 5D-II, but the longer telephoto can't be mounted on the camera. My camera also has a RRS plate attached to the bottom. I have also carried a 200L f/2.8 prime, although the hood is a bit snug with that one.

Since the Hadley Pro has a full opening top, getting the camera or lenses in and out is quick and easy. I was, and still am, AMAZED!

The TT UD-30 is also quite small and holds a similar amount of gear. The zippered top is not quite as easy to get in and out of as the full opening top of the Hadley Pro. and it will hold your 5D mounted to a lens inserted in a " T " configuration with another lens or 2-stacked to the side. The UD-40 is a bit bigger, and my favorite is the UD-35 since it is tall enough to hold a camera mounted 70-200/2.8 or 100-400. I have and use all of these bags plus a UD-60.

-howard



Thank you all for the suggestions. I googled every single bag suggested here, unfortunately most of them can't match my 5MDH in its slim profile (5.5" thick).

The ones that piqued my interest were the Billingham Hadley Pro and the Urban Disguise. I'm a little perplexed by their interior dimensions though. The interior thickness is only 3.75" for the Billingham and 4.25" for the Urban Disguise. The 5D without grip is 4.5" tall. Unfortunately, those bags will probably require I take the lens off the 5D... which is a dealbreaker for me. :(

I have been looking for a proper bag to replace my Crumpler 5MDH for over a year now. In fact, this isn't the first time I've asked this question in a forum. The search goes on, I suppose... :)

[stargazer78]

When I saw the dimensions for the Hadley Pro, I wondered how any camera gear would fit in there. Only through the insistence of other members here did I finally get the courage to order one to see for myself if it would fit. And fit it does!


Wow, I'm surprised that the Hadley would fit the 5D with lens. Does that force the bag to bulge out, or does the bag maintain its form? Any comments on the amount of padding in the in the bag?

[hfgarris]

Well ... as I said, I was AMAZED when it all slid into place in the bag ... must be magic! I guess "something" must expand, but I wouldn't say it "bulges" in any way. I think the bag itself is more spacious than the padded liner which has the dimensions published. The stretchy liner probably expands into the bag interior to make it all work!

The liner is a well padded "bucket" with dividers and is totally removable without unloading it by simply unsnapping one button. Thus you can use the bag for other things, or purchase an optional additional "bucket" for alternate systems or configurations.

You may want to purchase one from a merchant who allows returns to try it out for yourself if you are not sure. As I said, other POTN members convinced me to at least try it out since I was very skeptical. I purchased mine on eBay from 17thstreetphoto so that I could get the 8% Bing cashback off of their already lowest price. They have a 7 day return (buyer pays shipping).

-howard

[stargazer78]

You may want to purchase one from a merchant who allows returns to try it out for yourself if you are not sure. As I said, other POTN members convinced me to at least try it out since I was very skeptical.


Thanks for (patiently) answering all my questions. :D I'll definitely give the Hadley Pro a look... its seems like exactly what I need.

[mamypoko]

A picture to help with the Hadley Pro, I can fit a Mamiya RZ67 in the centre compartment of my Hadley, with enough space on both sides for a Leica M2 and a light meter + accessories. Its specified as having a 4 inch width but is very easily expandable.

I also work with a 1D and I can fit it face down with a Sigma 12.24mm lens mounted, although the bag becomes top heavy when I do that. I usually mount the 50mm f1.4 on my 1D and I can fit it into my Hadley with the camera facing the front of the bag.

My bag is very seasoned (bought used about 2 years ago) and looks like any other crummy old leather bag :)

http://joeylu.net/image/Hadley_Pro.jpg

[Jim G]

Gripped or ungripped 5D? Ungripped, get a Domke F-803, which looks pretty much like any canvas messenger bag. Or maybe the Domke F-5XC.

+1 for the F-803 - owned one and loved it. Very low-key - constantly had people surprised that there was a camera in it.

[lannes]

They can which bags contain valuable items by watching how you handle it. Remember that valuable items like laptops are also in many different kinds of bags, so they aren't looking just for "camera" bags. They can tell how you handle the bag whether it conains something valuable or just your underwear.

+1 C'mon !!!! any camera thief worth his salt is going to have done research and know what a Crumpler, Domke, Lowepro or Thinktank heavily disguised bag looks like. It also doesn't help if you keep pulling your camera out every now and then to take photos :D

[lannes]

T I've taken it to some of the crowded, crime infested cities and subways in Asia without feeling uncomfortable.

Surely you jest about asian cities, have you been to Baltimore ?

[joeyprice]

Somebody that is going to steal your bag doesn't care what is in it. Just like they will break a car window to search your glove box and center console for an expensive pair of sunglasses, nav system or iPod; they will take the bag, look in it, keep what they want and toss the rest. A friend just had his window broken and his messenger bag stolen. The haul was his O-Chem text book and calculator, I seriously doubt that is what the were hoping for.
Everybody keeps talking about the 'professional' camera thief, I think you're much more likely to get rolled by a thug looking for a $10 rock or a bottle of MadDog than you are to come across somebody who is scouting your bag for its tag/brand name.

[hairy_moth]

I wouldn't use this, but:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Swiss+Gear+-+DIANA+Bag+for+Digital+SLR+Cameras+-+Black/8920402.p?id=1214004487782&skuId=8920402&st=camera%20bag&cp=2&lp=4

[CosmoKid]

just get Insurance and buy any bag you want.

[yourdoinitwrong]

just get Insurance and buy any bag you want.

Perfect solution! :lol:

[CosmoKid]

Perfect solution! :lol:


or laminate a carry permit and attach it to the bag next to the NRA sticker. ;)

[hairy_moth]

or laminate a carry permit and attach it to the bag next to the NRA sticker. ;)

You're from NJ.. That carry permit is quite a trick in this state!

[CosmoKid]

You're from NJ.. That carry permit is quite a trick in this state!

i didn't say it had to be real. or that you had to be carrying anything. :)

my local PD wont even return my calls when applying for a home permit.

[TheArchitect]

+1 C'mon !!!! any camera thief worth his salt is going to have done research and know what a Crumpler, Domke, Lowepro or Thinktank heavily disguised bag looks like. It also doesn't help if you keep pulling your camera out every now and then to take photos :D

Agreed on the educated thief but I do think that a bag that looks more like a messenger bag is a decent idea. It won't fool a pro but it also won't get the attention of the 'opportunity' thief that happens to be on the subway with you. Once the camera is out then the gig is up but commuting to and from where you're shooting is another story.

[jacobsen1]

try either the UD30:
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/2010/bags/think-tank-urban-disguise-30/

or tamrac adventure 4 messenger:
http://gear.benjacobsenphoto.com/2009/bags/new-gear-tamrac-adventure-messenger-4/

[Hogloff]

Agreed on the educated thief but I do think that a bag that looks more like a messenger bag is a decent idea. It won't fool a pro but it also won't get the attention of the 'opportunity' thief that happens to be on the subway with you. Once the camera is out then the gig is up but commuting to and from where you're shooting is another story.

Agreed. Mosts thiefs are opportunity thieves and if something looks expensive, they'll grab the bag and determine what is in it once they have gotten away.

[jmaher]

Why not use an old bag you have - briefcase, messenger bag, anything you have and like and throw in an insert like this one.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/16065-REG/Domke_720_230_FA_230_Insert.html

This makes a great non obvious bag with good protection for your gear.

Jim

[hfgarris]

Why not use an old bag you have - briefcase, messenger bag, anything you have and like and throw in an insert like this one.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/16065-REG/Domke_720_230_FA_230_Insert.html

This makes a great non obvious bag with good protection for your gear.

Jim

The Tenba insert is a pretty nice insert to add to any bag as well (holds larger f/2.8 lenses with hoods which the Domke doesn't do well):

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/509016-REG/Tenba_638_251_Pro_Digital_2_0_Photo.html

-howard

[Houston1863]

A Tenba insert in an old bag sure sounds like the untimate stealth approach

I'm very impressed guys


Cheers

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[ckramos]

I was thinking about this then found out that someone else did it already. Let me present the 5.11 tactical push pack http://www.flickr.com/photos/imonoid/4310829837/

it doesn't day photographer...it says 'cop', 'military', 'bad news'

[sandycanvas]

Check out the jill-e bag line here: http://www.jill-e.com/ - They have both a men's and women's line of bags.

I did a review of one of the women's bags here: http://www.sandycanvas.com/2010/03/jill-e-small-red-leather-camera-bag-review/

[GTriever]

I was thinking about this then found out that someone else did it already. Let me present the 5.11 tactical push pack http://www.flickr.com/photos/imonoid/4310829837/

it doesn't day photographer...it says 'cop', 'military', 'bad news'


I've had one of these bags for about a month now. I carry a T2i with a Sigma 18-200, but the lens has to be separate from the body. However, it also holds charger, spare batteries, memory cards... and a concealed pistol in the rear pocket. ;)

[platformnubz]

i recently just purchased a lowepro fastpack 250 and i LOVE it! you should take a look at it!

[Jethro790]

Think Tanks UD30 has made me sell half of my bags. It's that good. Very pro looking, extremely good quality and doesn't look like a photo bag.

[kokakaste2]

ThinkTank UD50, looks about same as most of the bank workers here run around with. The bag is made from good material and design is good. Fits more then my back wants to carry, has tons of pockets and places where to put stuff. Can play gear tetris a lot, so many padding can be rearranged. :)

[iwasinvertedx]

A Tenba insert in an old bag sure sounds like the untimate stealth approach

i actually have this set up with a Chrome Messenger Bag.
its just a typically bike messenger bag, very durable. There's alot of extra space but the way this bag sits, the tenba works perfectly.
i recommend doing the tenba insert.

i have the tenba messenger bag itself, it doesnt look like a camera bag, but it def looks liek a computer bag. so i ended up buying an additional insert to put in my chrome bag, and now im stuck trying to get rid of the tenba bag. lol