Camera bags have become trendier than the handbags in the magazine tear sheets in Glamour or W magazine methinks. Some of them are cute and it is nice that what some women like is being considered in photography, what is still statistically a male-dominated industry. However, some of these bags are very expensive, especially considering the fact that many of them are not made of materials that have garnered higher costs in other bags, such as leather or suede, and some seem to fall apart, according to some photographers that I know.
I do have a Lowepro Slingshot 200 that was about $105.00 when I bought it (cheaper now), so that is not dirt cheap, but not caustically expensive either. I carried that bag out of the country several times and it is a great and comfortable bag to carry, though not glamourous or extremely fashionable. I do love beauty and fashion, but I also love not spending a lot on things that are not the actual travel or gear itself.
I had some things in storage and got them out a week ago. One of those things is this nifty bag below. I love the rugged style, but also the colour.
I bought it in Hong Kong at the Night Market, back in 2007 while traveling with my best friend. I paid $10.00 US. My friend said she remembered it being $8.00 US though. However, I never used the bag. Not since this photograph below was made four years ago. I've only used it this week, and made the photographs of it today.
I put the manual in from my new camera to give a scale to how big the pocket is. Also, I do check the manual as this camera differs from my previous Canon ones in a few ways. Rest assured though, checking the manual with a new camera doesn't mean I forgot how to make photographs, obviously. Hehe. Whether amateur or pro, it just makes sense to read the manual for anything you buy. (Plus, I'd never check it in front of a client, who'd do their homework in front of a professor? Hehe). What you see in the pocket on the right is my lip gloss.
I love the side pockets. They are the perfect size for an iPod. The interior of the bag can fit 1-2 bodies and 2-3 lenses depending on the size. However, I never carry that much gear because I want to be able to fit at least 1 book as well as some print collateral in case someone asks me that good ol' question "are you a photographer" when I am out doing personal work.
I made another full bag picture to emphasize that comfy shoulder strap. It is so soothing and since I have a terrible back and messed up shoulders from 2 car accidents in the last decade, this is such a relief.
Sure there are times when I want to be "extra" girly, but I don't always wear clothing or bags that are feminine. I let my energy, my makeup and my jewelry be the feminine sparks to my appearance, while I may be carrying this bag, wearing a tee shirt, jeans, and my lucky Pumas. I've had these for 4 or so years and have worn them to many sessions and traveling domestically and internationally.
Or maybe even my skull sandals. I wore these on Sunday with big yellow earrings (I love huge earrings, love) while I was photographing Jamrock Caribbean Festival.
Some photographers would argue that the look I share above is not "professional." Well, I worked corporate for many years so I know what people think is professional. But it is all in your demeanor not wardrobe and in your personality, not other's perceptions. Some clients have liked how colloquial and down to earth I am. I am not going to show up at a portrait session in heels and a suit. (Though I do wear a button down white oxford, khakis, pearls and flat dress shoes when I photograph a wedding). People want relatable people, not unreachable people. Photography is really more about the connection than the creativity, the similar inspiration more than the images, during the actual session.
Over the years, I've changed as far as what I think money should be spent on versus what it should not. I rather spend it on the gear than the bag. Most of all, I rather spend it on experiences than the gear and other possessions. If I already have a camera and have to choose between a new "better" camera and a trip, the trip gets chosen everyday and twice on Sundays. If I have to choose between a designer bag and using a bag I already have, which has sentimental value as a keepsake from a trip, guess which one I choose? Well, you already know, because of this blog post. Just be you and be comfortable is what I say.
8 Comments:
" But it is all in your demeanor not wardrobe and in your personality, not other's perceptions."
So true. People read more into behavior an connection than we'd like to think.
I love how it really does look like it was designed to carry cameras and accessories.
So true Megan!
Thanks for the comment.
A button-down white Oxford and faded blue jeans is my favorite "off-time" apparel. I love it so much, I think I'm going to buy several more Oxfords in other colors.
Love the bag. I've been thinking of replacing my battered Domke, but can't find anything I like. This looks like a mix of leather and canvas, but it's hard to tell.
What's easy to see though is that you manage to turn even the mundane into an artistic image. I'm working hard on my writing right now, and I miss photography so much. I need to somehow balance work and personal projects.
So glad to see you doing well.
Haha Carmen, I see you like the semi-prep look as well. I only do that for like a wedding or something. Normally, I am much more retro or Bohemian in my style.
Yep, gotta make time for photography when you get busy with your writing, even if only for an hour a week to do a personal project.
Glad to hear from you, will shout you out on Twitter. :)
A good exemple you don't need expensive stuff to be happy :)
Pretty much! Thanks for the comment.
I've seen some fat, ill-dressed male photographers who get hired regularly for huge gigs. They look like slobs with D-SLRS. I prefer your mode of dress. Thank you. LOL! Anyway, the demeanor is everything.
LOL @ "slobs."
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