Messenger-style camera bags?
I've been looking for a camera bag that is an attractive, messenger style, canvas bag, but I really can't find one that I like. It has to be big enough to hold my Nikon DSLR and two lenses. It seems like what I want doesn't exist, but still I'm hopeful! Also, if it doesn't exist, then would it be okay for me to buy a regular messenger bag and then put a padded camera insert into it? Or is that a huge no-no?
Just looking for some advice, XOXOX
There are messenger camera bags out there, so I'm assuming they don't meet your standards of attractiveness.
You can put together something on your own, but my concerns would be safety and durability. Make sure your bag fastens securely and is sturdy enough to handle the weight of your camera gear.
Gadget bags are designed to protect camera gear, with special bases, padding and they're often made of ballistic nylon.
Looks don't matter nearly as much as protection.
The best way is to find a real camera shop and check out what's available, I have a bag that accommodates a 400mm telephoto, it's simply a case of finding the right one.
While expensive, it's a lot cheaper than new gear.
Strongly built messenger bags can be very good as camera bags. I have three with different outfits in them, all waterproofed with Nikwax TX-10 years ago and still OK.
A fourth, nylon covered, is still in use after very many years… See below
Look in sports and fishing shops for well made messenger style bags.
Make sure the flap covers the bag properly so rain doesn't get in at the sides, or else extend it with proofed nylon sheeting.
Foam sheets can be bought cheaply and inserts can be made with plastic sheeting or use cut-down plastic containers, especially free ones that come as food packaging.
Wash well, dry, cut to fit what you need and bond some together if you like.
Messenger bags can be less bulky than purpose-made camera bags and with care will give good protection for your kit.
Carry the bag with the flap towards you, not away from you. You'll soon find how much better it is, especially in wet weather.
My first one was bought in the Far East and modified for a field Malaria survey in Malaysian rainforest and carried two Exacta cameras, a field microsope and camera adapter, extension tubes for close-ups, a lighting unit ( paraffin fuelled, with a condensor lens, vari-angle), various filters, spare films and a flashgun.
The whole bag was covered with proofed nylon, ( a cut-up Army combat blanket) including a large extended flap.
All easy to get to and no problems.
No batteries. Mechanical cameras never need them and are far better for trips like that.
Here's an Exacta on a microscope… Scroll down
http://www.marriottcameras.co.uk/instructions/Exakta_Varex_Micro_Macro/micro_withpictures.htm