I have what you might call a ‘problem’ with handbags (well, I don’t think it’s a problem. I love them, therefore, I buy them). It actually doesn’t stop with handbags - I love backpacks, messenger bags, totes, wristlets. I think it’s related to my need for organization and order, the fact that it’s paired with fashion is an added bonus.

Since I’ve taken up photography, I’ve struggled to find a camera bag that suits my needs. I’ve had my heart set on a messenger bag, which is my favorite style, that would hold an SLR and a lens or two. Seemed easy enough, but, good NIGHT. I have looked for over a year, and actually bought and returned TWO. I asked my step-dad, who is a photographer, for advice, and he had some good tips. Look for something with good zippers (or strong velcro), wide straps, lots of pockets, and weather-proofing. But in the end, he said, you have to find what is comfortable for you.

Jef sent me a link to a bag that he’d seen a lot of good reviews on. I dismissed it at first it because it wasn’t a messenger style, but he urged me to look at it. There were hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon and it was considered a bag ‘for photographers, designed by photographers.’ It took a few days of “should I, shouldn’t I?”, but eventually I ordered it.

It showed up today and even without having taken it on a ‘field trip’, I feel like I can say with confidence that it’s the one I’ve been looking for.

The juicy details:

Lowepro SlingShot 100 AW

The SlingShot 100 AW uses a unique sling design to go from “carry mode” to “ready mode” in just seconds. Carried comfortably on the back, it easily rotates to the front so you can get to your camera quickly. The SlingShot 100 AW holds an SLR with mid-range zoom lens attached 1-2 extra lenses, cables and accessories and has a full access lid to make loading it a snap. This feature-rich bag also includes a built-in memory card pouch, micro fiber LCD cloth and two generous organizer pockets.

The sling to the front is very stable, it’s comfortable to use it as a ’shelf’ while you swap out lenses. There isn’t room for much more than 1-2 lenses and some filters, but this is exactly what I was looking for. There is a bigger model with more room, but this is the perfect size for me now.

The icing on the cake? There’s a built-in all-weather cover that zips right out of the bottom and pulls up over the entire bag.