justruss wrote:
I think I have a pretty unorthodox approach-- though perhaps not. Because of some of the places I travel, and what I'm doing there, I try to be as low profile as I can be with a 5D + 35L + tripod (sometimes).
I travel with a Northface Hot Shot, in black, with the labels taped over or painted black with a Sharpie. I'm obviously still carrying around a fancy-ish bag...though given that Northface knock-offs outnumber just about every other bag, real or otherwise, it's actually not that flashy once one is outside the United States.
I keep a 10-inch, 8-hr, netbook running Snow Leopard, an ultra-light/compact tripod, C. Pol + ND filter, remote release, 5D, Oly 24 2.8, 35L, 135L, light jacket, and whatever else I need for the day-- in the bag. I often leave the netbook where I am staying. The tripod fits folded INSIDE the bag, in the main compartment, next to the 5D w/ 35L mounted. The other two lenses in the "outer" pocket. I don't look like a photographer unless I'm actually in the act or have the camera on my shoulder.
Very easy to carry for hours, nice padding/mesh panel against the back to limit sweating. For moving between locations, I use the Northface day-pack across my chest, and carry an Osprey 48 L backpacking pack for everything else. The Osprey is only needed for extended travel (multiple weeks) and when I can afford to have two bags. Otherwise I can live out of the Hotshot for quite some time... though it's rough.
I plan on doing a subsequent post-- if I get a chance before I leave on assignment in Asia next week-- to detail this setup, as I think it might be useful to some folks out there with similar travel/photo needs.
Please do detail the setup! I'm looking also for something like that. I hate the look and size of photobags. I don't want to have a big sign on my back with "rob me" on, as I sometimes visit places which aren't that safe.
I shoot with a 5D + 35L + something long (85 F1.8 / 70-200F4 IS / 100 Macro) I also want to be able to take a tripod along (I now have a big Manfrotto 055XPROB but looking to switch it for a Benro travel angel) and also some beverages and food.
I do find a sideback more convenient, but when walking a whole day it's not much fun.
I want to love Billingham bags (aside from their ludicrous price in the US) but am actually increasingly fond of crumpler camera bags, particularly the European models. In fact I'm about to buy a Crumpler New Delhi, assuming I can convince my dad to take delivery and mail it to me
The biggest problem I have with larger Billies is that they're just too uncomfortable to carry heavy gear for long periods. It's partly the strap system and partly the boxy shapes. I will say that the new 335 bags with their tuck-tops are very easy to work out of, however.
If the New Delhi is as comfortable as my 7MDH (and with the third leg strap it probably will be more comfortable) then I might end up selling my Billy 335 altogether. As it is, I currently only use the 335 for local trips and the 7MDH for actual "travel". The two main drawbacks of the 7MDH are the lack of external pockets (tho you can attach pouches at each end) and the lack of good weatherproofing (tho it is somewhat showerproof).
