I am curious how the baby will effect the way you take a look at the worl and how it will effect your pictures! Enjoy the time!!! By the way… best way to have a very good sleep… get a nice comfortable classic chair and find a pose to sit there comfortable with your baby boy in your arm… that have been the best sleep i ever got in my live!
Yes, give away is the way to go! I recently gave away my home studio light set and background. What I found or what I was looking for was someone who wanted to start their own home studio business! I finally asked around and found a lady who is really new to photography and she has done several weddings!!! She has a great eye for what makes a great shot (composition etc.) yet she shoots exclusively using automatic mode and in JPEG!!! So she is picking up my stuff on Monday and I have some very basic how to shoot photos books I will give here as a bonus. I myself am disabled but have the mindset of starting my own channel as I am new at photography but gear it toward photography for disabled people. The sad truth is many who are not whole anymore give up on life and I feel photography is a great way to exercise, see things and take pictures!!! If you want to part with any a bag or more, I can make sure they get to newcomers to our world!!! Thank you James!! Moonpie
It’s definitely useful and interesting to hear what your thinking in terms of composition and settings and why. I’d love more of that in the future. I hope Noah and Emily are doing well.
Hey James. Ive recently begun researching photography as a new hobby and Found this amazing channel of yours. I cant say how wonderful it is to sit down and watch hours of your videos. Thanks for all the great content. Keep up the good work Mate!
I was in the same situation about a year ago, James and Nigel Danson is my main sources of absorbation. You can also try out Mark Denney and of course Peter McKinnons older videos :) Edit: Oh, forgot about Sean Tucker, also educational about composition and a bit more philosophical about creativity and photography.
@@gussa23 Yep James, Nigel and Mark are on mine too, will check out Peter and Sean, another one I like is 'ExpertPhotography' usually quite short videos, but usually on one aspect at a time, and he's very clear with his technique explanations.
I liked the explanations of your shots at the end :) when shooting the same scenes at different focal lengths, it would be nice to put them side by side at the end of the explanation to compare them. Looking forward for the next one !
I think this is where a lot of new photographers get caught out the most. When they see that nice new shiny camera on special they don't understand at that point that they're not just buying a camera, they're buying a system. They're not thinking beyond that initial purchase. Bigger cameras unfortunately costs more over all than smaller cameras. Bigger lenses mean bigger filters, mean bigger bags to put them in. Bigger heavier tripods too if they use them. More mps means bigger harddrives and/or more online storage. It can also mean upgrading your computer to cope with working on the image files too. I wish this was more widely spoken about, it could save new photographers a lot of money over time. Also promoting 2nd hand cameras as a way to get a taste might better prepare people for what they really want to shoot and therefore what they really need to buy, without having to sell any organs.
I noticed the new bag in your previous videos because I have the exact same bag. It's great. Pro tip: When you're closing the roll top, clip it in the opposite direction of the roll. For example, if you roll towards yourself, clip away. It will close much more neatly.
I can feel with this video. Just today I picked up a puffy coat on a steep discount - seems nice, good warmth, and can live in my camera backpack until I need it. Only problem is, just now at home I realised it takes more space than I thought and when it is on my photo backpack the daily compartment is full. So it seems I need a bigger bag, just like you.
I really like the format of you finding & showing us the multiple positions/views/choices within the composition, talking us through the thought behind the camera setting choices based on the compositional position changes, & actually taking all of the shots instead of waiting for the wet deer to appear & just not taking any shots when it doesn’t. That, coupled with your humor is a winning combo. I was looking at the Element backpack from Compagnon (being a fellow backpack hoarder with a delicate back to boot), but the price is super high, so I haven’t tried it… yet. I’m sure I’ll be able to let you know if it’s worth it by late Fall.
Hi James - my wife bought me a MindShift Gear rotation180 for Christmas after seeing your recommendation - it was a nightmare - not releasing - not going back in - forever taking it off to secure the camera bag bit - aarrgghh - I've since been using the Lowepro Whistler BP350 AW11 which I think is a pretty awesome bag but like you I feel it doesn't have enough room for all the clothing etc - so I'm now investing in the Shimoda Explore 40 Adventure which should be a fully all round bag - So I'm really pleased you are showing the Shimoda Action X 50 bag :)
One of the frustrations I've had with camera bags is that they tend to be great for cameras, but not great for whatever else you're doing. I've had a Thinktank Shapeshifter for probably 10 years, and every year I try to replace it. It's great for holding every bit of gear I have, so I end up using it like a filing cabinet. But if I go hiking, it's not a great bag. It's not ideal for carrying a water bladder, snacks, or first aid kit. And there is no way I could bring any camping gear. The same goes for two Lowepro bags. Great for keeping my camera safe, and lenses at the ready. But not for extra bits of gear you need to camp. My fix has been to get a real nice hiking pack, with a waterproof Dry Sack that is like 2/3 or 3/4 the size of the pack to put gear into (wrapped up in soft pads). I've also cannibalized some of the removable bits from the Lowepro bags and added it to my hiking pack. But the Shimoda bags look promising. The expandable roll top seems pretty flexible for different needs.
Thoroughly enjoyed the video...it's nice to see someone else with the same...er...problem! Personally, I think the bags are up to some weird stuff in the closet. It seems like every time I open the closet there's a new bag in there...I might check some some rabbit DNA in the bag line. The little guy looks great, very healthy! And the hair!! He'll be headed to the barber before he's 1! Maybe you could run a Camera Bag adventure contest...see who's camera bag submits the most interesting photograph featuring their bag. Thanks and congratulations to you and Emily on your son! And don't worry...sleep will come back...in about 25 years!!!
Got the x50 on their kickstarter a while ago. Took an age to be delivered however I am very happy with it. Really can hold a lot of kit, and it feels very robust.
I have troubles finding a good camera bag as well. I have 2 laying in the kitchen now that I need to return tomorrow. Just like you I'm looking for a bag with good balance between gear storage and other stuff like water, jacket, food. Mine needs to be more urban looking and around 30L. I will keep on looking... I know it's out there.
They are great bags, I have the 30L and the roll top is fantastic. I’ve found it so durable in snow, rain and dirt - so happy I got mine and I’m sure you will love it too James. Another great video and Wales is truly beautiful, hopefully one day we can travel there.
The problem with dedicated camerabags is the weight, to much crap that weighs. I would go (and have) for an insert in a DCF backpack, which also is waterproof.
James, your very fluid movement shows shows that you are quite fit. I suppose all that hiking and cycling takes care of the stamina needed. However, you should consider a photographer's exercise video. That bag must be quite heavy when fully loaded. How do you look after your back? What stretches etc do you do in the mornings or during the day when hiking?
Oh the trauma of the perfect camera bag. I am quite good at only now carrying the equipment that i will use on the day. My Wife however, seems to want to carry everything! She has just purchased yet another body (7Dii) and a Bigma lens (150-600mm Sport). Tring to find a compact bag to carry that as well as all the detritus that she carries with her is a definite challenge especially as she is only 5'3" so big bags look ridiculous. All id like in a bag, is side entry, and a side net for a decent sized water bottle. I carry a 7Dii body, 100-400 and 24-105 if on a mixed trip. I do like bags like James' new one with somewhere to keep a few items (Mainly food). My current bag has to many things to open to get to its food storage area and is a faff.
Saturday morning is just not the same without watching you warble on for 15 mins. Great vlog as always James. Keep safe and look after the baby. Also I don't forget how much a full 50 litre rucksack is bound to weigh!
That's funny, I got up to four and my husband called me crazy bag lady! I was seriously considering the new shimoda or maybe adding more Nomatic to my collection.
I took my new camera bag out for a spin today, and it was perfect. I chose the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III (ridiculous name) for its side access and separation between photo gear and clothes/food etc. I think you should do a giveaway, not because I want to get some of your gear, but because you really need to get rid of a few if you have 13, going on 14 bags now. Cheers
The fact that the bag shoulder straps are height adjustable would make it a good seller I think. It's not so easy to get a decently big bag to fit right if your torso is shorter.
Absolutely keep chatting about your thoughts around composition and camera settings, Mister P. An interesting and valuable insight into your photographer's noggin!
Firstly, welcome to fatherhood. Enjoy while small - they grow quick. Very quick. I am very close to purchasing Action X50 myself, have been for months - but… what core would you recommend? I’m leaning towards Large DSLR V2 (purely as I regularly like to bring all my glass with me - you know, just in case) whilst overkill for my Sony Mirrorless, feel I’d regret the Medium Mirrorless option. Unfortunately there are no retailers within 100 miles of me to check out in person. Any feedback or opinions (from anyone) gravely appreciated.
A camera bag giveaway would be fantastic! So hard to know who would be a good recipient though. Maybe you could run a photo competition on Instagram, and use a unique tag? That way you could check through all the tags. Maybe get people to send photos of their existing camera gear. Might help you choose people if the camera bags are different sizes.
Shouldn't the food compartment of the bag be at the bottom? For 2 reasons, if something leaks it won't run over the gear and if one slips going e.g. downhill and falls onto the backside, hitting the bottom of the bag on rocks etc. one doesn't hit it with the camera gear.
I also have a slight photo backpack problem. Not to the same extent as yours (I currently only have 3). But I'm always looking for the perfect photo backpack for me and somehow I can't find it. I've been using Lowepro for years and have an older ProTrekker 400 among others. Heavy and bulky thing. Lately I've been using a Flipside Trek 450 which I find almost perfect for me. If it were available in a slightly larger size, I think that would be it. Currently, I've followed the crowd and got myself a Shimoda Explore V2. But somehow I can't warm up to it at all. Everything fits in, but I don't like the compartment at the top. I'm not really happy with the way the fabric flutters around in the bag. I also don't like the notebook compartment very much. I would have preferred other small pockets at this point. I already had my doubts in the Kickstarter campaign, but I bought it anyway. I'll probably try it for a while, but I think I'll go back to the Flipside Trek and see if I can organise my large filter collection better somehow. I also had an F-Stop Tilopa for a weekend, but I wasn't too happy with it either. I didn't like the fact that things in the top compartment could just slide behind the ICU. That would be the last thing you'd want to do if you had to disassemble the backpack on site because an important part had gotten loose. You could have put an ICU in the top compartment, but you would lose valuable space.
Looks like a good option…been needing a camera bag before I go travelling so this might just be the one! Also, I’d love it if you could talk about how you manage to keep your gear dry while on a rainy hike (especially when you’re taking pictures in the rain!)
The Shimoda Action X50 is by far the most comfortable bag I've ever used. Carrying >20kg of kit on a full day hike doesn't break my back like it used to!
I always struggle to understand why you would want such big camera bags. Surely travelling light has to be beneficial. Any recommendations on a good quality lightweight? Congratulations on new baby, now the fun begins, and of course you can’t stop at one……
Still rate the F Stop bags and inserts. The Shimoda looks nice as well. Four bags in my collection including a Think Tank Streetwalker Mk 1 which is great for camera kit only but lacks space for all the other crap! How about listing the bags you might want to give away get us to vote and then select the winners for there best reason as to why they should have one. I guess Noah doesn't need one yet!!
Your loved and appreciated camera bag would certainly find a warm welcome for my modest gear: A destroyed semi-functional D 810, A Sigma C 150-600mm f 5.6-6.3, a (needing service) Nikon 24-120mm f4, which was formerly stuck in that afore mentioned body, a Nikon 20mm f 1.8, a Venus Laowa 12 mm f 2.8 and an off brand heavy duty tripod + 6 batteries and a host of other accessories for data transfer. I don't know if I should find a very good Nikon Z7II (used) or dump an unknown amount into the older D810. ( the interlocking lens mount is completely destroyed) The good news is that I always look forward to your video content. I know there is a lot of effort in presenting all the angles and the coming and going (which is only possible if you are Not spending time backtracking, that you have a videographer following you about the landscape.) But I'm certain you account for all your video shooting plus, editing :)
I'm starting to get the opinion that camera bags are like telescopes and eye pieces. One goes through life looking for the perfect one; never finding it (but finding some pretty cool ones that are perfect for some situations; a faff in others). In the end, you have too many with one or two you like and the rest - meh. At some point I'll have to try a Shimoda. A bit $$ which has created some resistance on my part.
*Stops for lunch a mile in* 'I don't know what this is called' 'I did not check the map properly' 'I am knackered!' Haha i can relate to this so much! :-D
13 bags not being used, sounds like good topic for a future middle of winter indoors video, when it's not nice to go outside. You can go through the pros and cons of each one from your own user experience point of view.
The way you’re wearing your backpacks is driving me up the wall! Try wearing it higher on your back, so that the strap attachment point is almost level with the top of your shoulders. It’s a way more comfortable way to wear a bag and way better for your back.
Great one this week James. That new bag looks like the thing to carry around. Your video format is real cool, wireless mic to capture the dialog and the still images you’re taking. Wales looks like a lovely place, got to put that on my list to visit.
That probably wasn't a Roman road (not that it detracts from the beauty of it). The Roman road in that area ran from Caerhun to Abergwyngregyn over Bwlch-y-Ddeufaen. :)
James, great video. If you need me to look after one or two of your camera bags, I’d be more than happy to. 👍🏽 You’ll need all the space you can get all the stuff that you’re going to amass for Noah. I speak from experience!
Before you get overcome with generosity, James, I suggest you re-assess the bags from a different point of view. Each of my camera bags has different functions, depending on the camera gear and the other crap I have to carry. I am looking for small shoulder bag at present for two bodies with lenses, filters etc for street photography and landscapes. My modest sized rucksack camera bag I use to carry my gear for wildlife and aircraft which I use a lot. I am currently missing a bigger bag for my camera gear plus the kitchen sink like your current bag. None of mine will be redundant they will all be very useful and used in different contexts. So think on, as we say before you start giving away what you may later have a need for.
Ok you have me beat on number of bags. My wife says she will start throwing my bags away if i continue to buy new ones. Which sucks, because i was on a hike this morning and i just wasn't a fan of the bag i was using...i need to find a place to hide them i think. Nice bag, nice video and pictures.
I would certainly love a new camera bag, I've got lots of video and photo gear to carry around the ski resort for the videos I film there, and my camera bag is not cutting it anymore.
Women collect shoes, James has camera bags. Curious when Emily will be asking for a bigger house to have enough room for the family. Great video as always thanks and hello from west coast USA.
Any recommendations for a bag that can carry a G9, 25mm 1.7 and a panasonic 100-400, maybe another smallish lens for landscapes, a cagoule, two 500mm water bottles and a sandwich 😀 I don't want a huge empty bag and I don't want so small I can't get everything in.
Haha well im trying to find a new bag, so seen this video up and had to check it out. Current bag is small and uncomfortable. Bag you have does look pretty good. As far as a giveaway, not sure, I am a newbie still trying to figure the camera out, but having fun. Thanks for the videos.
Since you've made, as you've said yourself, quite a lot of videos on camera bags, maybe you could do a round-up on the various brands and concepts you've tested so far. I think there is probably not one best solution for everything, but it would be interesting to get your view on pros and cons. And when will your son be ready to accompany you as an assistant?
James, have you seen the Think Tank bag whose lower portion let’s you swing it around to your front and open up to get ur gear out without having to remove your backpack? Had one on order and a week later received a message that they were sold out and my order was canceled. Ended up getting my Shimoda Action X30.
I’m going in the opposite direction bag wise. Gifted myself a black Think Tank Retrospective 4 v.2. Holds one camera, one lens, filter pack, sd card wallet, batteries, Ricolas, id, and phone, and eye drops. As for the Give Away, I’m always wondering about who wins the bag and wish there was pic of them, and maybe an image they made. 😄🌿
Great, well balanced video. A short segment of kit porn (the bag) which is just about enabling the main act... the photos, and hearing you talk through the composition and exposure choices is my main reason for watching.
Really enjoy your videos, im still learning photography. And I think its pretty difficult, still trying to learn all settings and stuff. Im using the Panasonic G9. Are you shooting in 4:3 or 16:9?
Hi James. Interesting video. I notice that you not too kind to use tripods. I have one and carry it with me, but more of the time are a pain. I see people that carrie them on the bags, hanging somehow. I can't found the way. Any help?
Another great video. Just wanted to let you know that because of your videos, today I went to pick up my new lumix g9. Loving it so far, keep up the great work 👍
If a review/recommendation is the result of a 'freebie' then a reviewer should have to include reference to the price of the item. People watch your channel James because you are an excellent photographer and produce a very down to earth, funny output. Thus, you are in todays terms, an 'influencer'. Shimoda sent you a free bag because of this. There is no mention in your presentation about the price and, from my experience, Shimoda are amongst the most expensive. This being so, it means they gifted you around £300. Congrats on the baby to you both (you and your wife not you and your baby although that as well of course!)
Thanks for the kind words about the baby last week by the way, it's a good job they're cute isn't it...
That’s their job - to be cute. If they weren’t, none of us would be here.
Four months ahead of you.. they do just enough to keep them around! Love the channel and the book FYI! 👍🏽
3 kids later, I can tell you, it's only the beginning! Though the best thing I can say is enjoy, those first weeks just fly by and are very precious.
I am curious how the baby will effect the way you take a look at the worl and how it will effect your pictures! Enjoy the time!!! By the way… best way to have a very good sleep… get a nice comfortable classic chair and find a pose to sit there comfortable with your baby boy in your arm… that have been the best sleep i ever got in my live!
Sorry it's belated but i am unwell at the moment, however Congratulations to you and Emily. Hope everyone is healthy and well!
James: a good thing about this big bag is, that I can reduce the size for smaller Trips.
*13 smaller bags sitting at home, all angry.
haha!
Some sort of photography contest for the camera bags would be fun. Would drive ~engagement~ as well if, ya know, you want that influencer angle on it.
Why did I read this in James's voice?
Really liked the process of talking through the composition, looking forward for more!
I'm obsessed with bags too, not camerabag specific but they're just so useful for all different use cases.
Yes, give away is the way to go! I recently gave away my home studio light set and background. What I found or what I was looking for was someone who wanted to start their own home studio business! I finally asked around and found a lady who is really new to photography and she has done several weddings!!! She has a great eye for what makes a great shot (composition etc.) yet she shoots exclusively using automatic mode and in JPEG!!! So she is picking up my stuff on Monday and I have some very basic how to shoot photos books I will give here as a bonus. I myself am disabled but have the mindset of starting my own channel as I am new at photography but gear it toward photography for disabled people. The sad truth is many who are not whole anymore give up on life and I feel photography is a great way to exercise, see things and take pictures!!! If you want to part with any a bag or more, I can make sure they get to newcomers to our world!!!
Thank you James!!
Moonpie
It’s definitely useful and interesting to hear what your thinking in terms of composition and settings and why. I’d love more of that in the future. I hope Noah and Emily are doing well.
Hey James. Ive recently begun researching photography as a new hobby and Found this amazing channel of yours. I cant say how wonderful it is to sit down and watch hours of your videos. Thanks for all the great content. Keep up the good work Mate!
I was in the same situation about a year ago, James and Nigel Danson is my main sources of absorbation. You can also try out Mark Denney and of course Peter McKinnons older videos :)
Edit: Oh, forgot about Sean Tucker, also educational about composition and a bit more philosophical about creativity and photography.
@@gussa23 Awesome thank you for the suggestions ill be sure to check them out!
@@gussa23 Yep James, Nigel and Mark are on mine too, will check out Peter and Sean, another one I like is 'ExpertPhotography' usually quite short videos, but usually on one aspect at a time, and he's very clear with his technique explanations.
@@blue_ranger Hope you find something interesting :)
I liked the explanations of your shots at the end :) when shooting the same scenes at different focal lengths, it would be nice to put them side by side at the end of the explanation to compare them. Looking forward for the next one !
Old Camera bags make wonderful diaper bags. They also are padded to fit small children.
This newbie definitely wants to hear more of your composition and camera settings thoughts. Thanks.
I think this is where a lot of new photographers get caught out the most. When they see that nice new shiny camera on special they don't understand at that point that they're not just buying a camera, they're buying a system. They're not thinking beyond that initial purchase. Bigger cameras unfortunately costs more over all than smaller cameras. Bigger lenses mean bigger filters, mean bigger bags to put them in. Bigger heavier tripods too if they use them. More mps means bigger harddrives and/or more online storage. It can also mean upgrading your computer to cope with working on the image files too. I wish this was more widely spoken about, it could save new photographers a lot of money over time. Also promoting 2nd hand cameras as a way to get a taste might better prepare people for what they really want to shoot and therefore what they really need to buy, without having to sell any organs.
I noticed the new bag in your previous videos because I have the exact same bag. It's great. Pro tip: When you're closing the roll top, clip it in the opposite direction of the roll. For example, if you roll towards yourself, clip away. It will close much more neatly.
I can feel with this video. Just today I picked up a puffy coat on a steep discount - seems nice, good warmth, and can live in my camera backpack until I need it. Only problem is, just now at home I realised it takes more space than I thought and when it is on my photo backpack the daily compartment is full. So it seems I need a bigger bag, just like you.
I really like the format of you finding & showing us the multiple positions/views/choices within the composition, talking us through the thought behind the camera setting choices based on the compositional position changes, & actually taking all of the shots instead of waiting for the wet deer to appear & just not taking any shots when it doesn’t. That, coupled with your humor is a winning combo. I was looking at the Element backpack from Compagnon (being a fellow backpack hoarder with a delicate back to boot), but the price is super high, so I haven’t tried it… yet. I’m sure I’ll be able to let you know if it’s worth it by late Fall.
Ive got about 6 camera bags, none are perfect but always a compromise when carrying other kit and camping. Great video
Thank you again for your insights. I'm going back and watching your videos for a second time. I'm not a pro but desire to be one in the future.
Congratulations on the new addition to your family! I hope mom and baby are doing well. I enjoy watching your channel.
Love that they put the camera gear on the bottom. If you fall on your ass or drop the bag, your camera gear will efficiently protect your food.
It's always good to hear other photographers talk about how they compose their shots.
Hi James - my wife bought me a MindShift Gear rotation180 for Christmas after seeing your recommendation - it was a nightmare - not releasing - not going back in - forever taking it off to secure the camera bag bit - aarrgghh - I've since been using the Lowepro Whistler BP350 AW11 which I think is a pretty awesome bag but like you I feel it doesn't have enough room for all the clothing etc - so I'm now investing in the Shimoda Explore 40 Adventure which should be a fully all round bag - So I'm really pleased you are showing the Shimoda Action X 50 bag :)
One of the frustrations I've had with camera bags is that they tend to be great for cameras, but not great for whatever else you're doing. I've had a Thinktank Shapeshifter for probably 10 years, and every year I try to replace it. It's great for holding every bit of gear I have, so I end up using it like a filing cabinet.
But if I go hiking, it's not a great bag. It's not ideal for carrying a water bladder, snacks, or first aid kit. And there is no way I could bring any camping gear.
The same goes for two Lowepro bags. Great for keeping my camera safe, and lenses at the ready. But not for extra bits of gear you need to camp.
My fix has been to get a real nice hiking pack, with a waterproof Dry Sack that is like 2/3 or 3/4 the size of the pack to put gear into (wrapped up in soft pads). I've also cannibalized some of the removable bits from the Lowepro bags and added it to my hiking pack.
But the Shimoda bags look promising. The expandable roll top seems pretty flexible for different needs.
It's unusual for you to stop waffling on 😁 I am in Norfolk at the moment and you are right, I have never seen it so busy.
Thoroughly enjoyed the video...it's nice to see someone else with the same...er...problem! Personally, I think the bags are up to some weird stuff in the closet. It seems like every time I open the closet there's a new bag in there...I might check some some rabbit DNA in the bag line.
The little guy looks great, very healthy! And the hair!! He'll be headed to the barber before he's 1! Maybe you could run a Camera Bag adventure contest...see who's camera bag submits the most interesting photograph featuring their bag.
Thanks and congratulations to you and Emily on your son! And don't worry...sleep will come back...in about 25 years!!!
Great images and cool bag! Thanks for sharing!
Really love the way you are explaining and taking photos... really enriching ❤
Not going to lie man, I watch your videos for your personality - everything else is a bonus. Keep up the great work!
Got the x50 on their kickstarter a while ago. Took an age to be delivered however I am very happy with it. Really can hold a lot of kit, and it feels very robust.
I have troubles finding a good camera bag as well. I have 2 laying in the kitchen now that I need to return tomorrow. Just like you I'm looking for a bag with good balance between gear storage and other stuff like water, jacket, food. Mine needs to be more urban looking and around 30L. I will keep on looking... I know it's out there.
i sure need a camera bag for Norway hiking . thank for your videos, amazing as always
They are great bags, I have the 30L and the roll top is fantastic. I’ve found it so durable in snow, rain and dirt - so happy I got mine and I’m sure you will love it too James. Another great video and Wales is truly beautiful, hopefully one day we can travel there.
Another good video James. Definitely like the talk through on the compositions 👍🏻
The problem with dedicated camerabags is the weight, to much crap that weighs. I would go (and have) for an insert in a DCF backpack, which also is waterproof.
I love the overcast weather on those rocky Snowdonia places.. would be such a great place for portrait photography imo
Plenty of room for spare nappies when your little one is ready to go on adventures with you. Always love your videos.
James, your very fluid movement shows shows that you are quite fit. I suppose all that hiking and cycling takes care of the stamina needed. However, you should consider a photographer's exercise video. That bag must be quite heavy when fully loaded. How do you look after your back? What stretches etc do you do in the mornings or during the day when hiking?
Oh the trauma of the perfect camera bag. I am quite good at only now carrying the equipment that i will use on the day. My Wife however, seems to want to carry everything! She has just purchased yet another body (7Dii) and a Bigma lens (150-600mm Sport). Tring to find a compact bag to carry that as well as all the detritus that she carries with her is a definite challenge especially as she is only 5'3" so big bags look ridiculous. All id like in a bag, is side entry, and a side net for a decent sized water bottle. I carry a 7Dii body, 100-400 and 24-105 if on a mixed trip. I do like bags like James' new one with somewhere to keep a few items (Mainly food). My current bag has to many things to open to get to its food storage area and is a faff.
Saturday morning is just not the same without watching you warble on for 15 mins. Great vlog as always James. Keep safe and look after the baby. Also I don't forget how much a full 50 litre rucksack is bound to weigh!
That's funny, I got up to four and my husband called me crazy bag lady! I was seriously considering the new shimoda or maybe adding more Nomatic to my collection.
I got a Shimoda Explore V2 E25 from their Kickstarter last week. Seems really well made and ideal for my use case
Check out the Wandrd Prvke 41. Expands to 46 litres and still looks stylish/discrete for urban use.
I took my new camera bag out for a spin today, and it was perfect. I chose the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III (ridiculous name) for its side access and separation between photo gear and clothes/food etc. I think you should do a giveaway, not because I want to get some of your gear, but because you really need to get rid of a few if you have 13, going on 14 bags now. Cheers
Considering the baby will get his closet you’re so so right 😄🌿
The fact that the bag shoulder straps are height adjustable would make it a good seller I think. It's not so easy to get a decently big bag to fit right if your torso is shorter.
Absolutely keep chatting about your thoughts around composition and camera settings, Mister P. An interesting and valuable insight into your photographer's noggin!
Firstly, welcome to fatherhood. Enjoy while small - they grow quick. Very quick.
I am very close to purchasing Action X50 myself, have been for months - but… what core would you recommend? I’m leaning towards Large DSLR V2 (purely as I regularly like to bring all my glass with me - you know, just in case) whilst overkill for my Sony Mirrorless, feel I’d regret the Medium Mirrorless option. Unfortunately there are no retailers within 100 miles of me to check out in person.
Any feedback or opinions (from anyone) gravely appreciated.
I have had the Shimoda Action X30 for more than a year and it is wonderfuil.
A camera bag giveaway would be fantastic! So hard to know who would be a good recipient though. Maybe you could run a photo competition on Instagram, and use a unique tag? That way you could check through all the tags. Maybe get people to send photos of their existing camera gear. Might help you choose people if the camera bags are different sizes.
The bag Video next year will be about how to get your gear in a bag thats mainly for carrying a sitting child. Switching back to mft.
About 15 years ago a bought a quality too big bag. Now it is full of gear. Still as good as new. Yep one bag doing me 15 years and counting.
Would have been nice to see all 3 shots of the trees on screen at once to visually see the difference 😀
Shouldn't the food compartment of the bag be at the bottom? For 2 reasons, if something leaks it won't run over the gear and if one slips going e.g. downhill and falls onto the backside, hitting the bottom of the bag on rocks etc. one doesn't hit it with the camera gear.
I also have a slight photo backpack problem.
Not to the same extent as yours (I currently only have 3).
But I'm always looking for the perfect photo backpack for me and somehow I can't find it. I've been using Lowepro for years and have an older ProTrekker 400 among others.
Heavy and bulky thing. Lately I've been using a Flipside Trek 450 which I find almost perfect for me. If it were available in a slightly larger size, I think that would be it.
Currently, I've followed the crowd and got myself a Shimoda Explore V2. But somehow I can't warm up to it at all. Everything fits in, but I don't like the compartment at the top.
I'm not really happy with the way the fabric flutters around in the bag. I also don't like the notebook compartment very much. I would have preferred other small pockets at this point.
I already had my doubts in the Kickstarter campaign, but I bought it anyway.
I'll probably try it for a while, but I think I'll go back to the Flipside Trek and see if I can organise my large filter collection better somehow.
I also had an F-Stop Tilopa for a weekend, but I wasn't too happy with it either. I didn't like the fact that things in the top compartment could just slide behind the ICU.
That would be the last thing you'd want to do if you had to disassemble the backpack on site because an important part had gotten loose.
You could have put an ICU in the top compartment, but you would lose valuable space.
I would have taken the trees along the path vertical and to get some of the detail in the leaves
Looks like a good option…been needing a camera bag before I go travelling so this might just be the one!
Also, I’d love it if you could talk about how you manage to keep your gear dry while on a rainy hike (especially when you’re taking pictures in the rain!)
Enjoyed the video! Would love a bag of any sorts as my current one is on its last knees and is to small for my gear. Thanks :)
Love that first image James! Hope you’re enjoying the start of fatherhood!
The Shimoda Action X50 is by far the most comfortable bag I've ever used. Carrying >20kg of kit on a full day hike doesn't break my back like it used to!
Snowdonia is such a beautiful landscape, what a luck to live there nearby!
I always struggle to understand why you would want such big camera bags. Surely travelling light has to be beneficial.
Any recommendations on a good quality lightweight?
Congratulations on new baby, now the fun begins, and of course you can’t stop at one……
Still rate the F Stop bags and inserts. The Shimoda looks nice as well. Four bags in my collection including a Think Tank Streetwalker Mk 1 which is great for camera kit only but lacks space for all the other crap! How about listing the bags you might want to give away get us to vote and then select the winners for there best reason as to why they should have one. I guess Noah doesn't need one yet!!
The house at the beginning got me hooked
Your loved and appreciated camera bag would certainly find a warm welcome for my modest gear: A destroyed semi-functional D 810, A Sigma C 150-600mm f 5.6-6.3, a (needing service) Nikon 24-120mm f4, which was formerly stuck in that afore mentioned body, a Nikon 20mm f 1.8, a Venus Laowa 12 mm f 2.8 and an off brand heavy duty tripod + 6 batteries and a host of other accessories for data transfer. I don't know if I should find a very good Nikon Z7II (used) or dump an unknown amount into the older D810. ( the interlocking lens mount is completely destroyed) The good news is that I always look forward to your video content. I know there is a lot of effort in presenting all the angles and the coming and going (which is only possible if you are Not spending time backtracking, that you have a videographer following you about the landscape.) But I'm certain you account for all your video shooting plus, editing :)
That note on 3 focal lengths was useful to me! I preferred the second 2 images.
I’m not experienced enough to tell you why but, I do 👍🏼
I'm starting to get the opinion that camera bags are like telescopes and eye pieces. One goes through life looking for the perfect one; never finding it (but finding some pretty cool ones that are perfect for some situations; a faff in others). In the end, you have too many with one or two you like and the rest - meh. At some point I'll have to try a Shimoda. A bit $$ which has created some resistance on my part.
*Stops for lunch a mile in*
'I don't know what this is called'
'I did not check the map properly'
'I am knackered!'
Haha i can relate to this so much! :-D
I smell a new channel coming "James on Camera Bags".
It was the affect of the sheep at the rock with a tree in it then the bleeting sound that made you go silent.
13 bags not being used, sounds like good topic for a future middle of winter indoors video, when it's not nice to go outside. You can go through the pros and cons of each one from your own user experience point of view.
The way you’re wearing your backpacks is driving me up the wall!
Try wearing it higher on your back, so that the strap attachment point is almost level with the top of your shoulders. It’s a way more comfortable way to wear a bag and way better for your back.
Best bag i've seen you use was the mindshift version 2, a real game changer i thought
Yay more James, hope fatherhood is treating you well.
Great one this week James. That new bag looks like the thing to carry around. Your video format is real cool, wireless mic to capture the dialog and the still images you’re taking. Wales looks like a lovely place, got to put that on my list to visit.
That probably wasn't a Roman road (not that it detracts from the beauty of it). The Roman road in that area ran from Caerhun to Abergwyngregyn over Bwlch-y-Ddeufaen. :)
James, great video. If you need me to look after one or two of your camera bags, I’d be more than happy to. 👍🏽
You’ll need all the space you can get all the stuff that you’re going to amass for Noah.
I speak from experience!
Before you get overcome with generosity, James, I suggest you re-assess the bags from a different point of view. Each of my camera bags has different functions, depending on the camera gear and the other crap I have to carry. I am looking for small shoulder bag at present for two bodies with lenses, filters etc for street photography and landscapes. My modest sized rucksack camera bag I use to carry my gear for wildlife and aircraft which I use a lot. I am currently missing a bigger bag for my camera gear plus the kitchen sink like your current bag. None of mine will be redundant they will all be very useful and used in different contexts. So think on, as we say before you start giving away what you may later have a need for.
I bought a Think Tank Story 10 for doing photo walks and small sessions. It can hold a 70-200mm f/2.8, 5DIV w/24-70mm, and an R5 body.
Ok you have me beat on number of bags. My wife says she will start throwing my bags away if i continue to buy new ones. Which sucks, because i was on a hike this morning and i just wasn't a fan of the bag i was using...i need to find a place to hide them i think. Nice bag, nice video and pictures.
Probably more likely to get an old dear walking down the path, possibly taking her small dog for a walk?
I would certainly love a new camera bag, I've got lots of video and photo gear to carry around the ski resort for the videos I film there, and my camera bag is not cutting it anymore.
Women collect shoes, James has camera bags. Curious when Emily will be asking for a bigger house to have enough room for the family. Great video as always thanks and hello from west coast USA.
It is very helpful, especially for beginners
Need the list of bags you have !
I’m in need of a small bag approx. 20L if you have a spare. 😉
if the road is the width of train tracks, then there's a high chance of it being a roman road, since that was the width of the roman charriots. ^_^
I was deciding to get that bag but the peak design was the one I went with.. It was a hard decision and went back and forth..
Any recommendations for a bag that can carry a G9, 25mm 1.7 and a panasonic 100-400, maybe another smallish lens for landscapes, a cagoule, two 500mm water bottles and a sandwich 😀
I don't want a huge empty bag and I don't want so small I can't get everything in.
Haha well im trying to find a new bag, so seen this video up and had to check it out. Current bag is small and uncomfortable. Bag you have does look pretty good. As far as a giveaway, not sure, I am a newbie still trying to figure the camera out, but having fun. Thanks for the videos.
Since you've made, as you've said yourself, quite a lot of videos on camera bags, maybe you could do a round-up on the various brands and concepts you've tested so far. I think there is probably not one best solution for everything, but it would be interesting to get your view on pros and cons. And when will your son be ready to accompany you as an assistant?
James, have you seen the Think Tank bag whose lower portion let’s you swing it around to your front and open up to get ur gear out without having to remove your backpack? Had one on order and a week later received a message that they were sold out and my order was canceled. Ended up getting my Shimoda Action X30.
I’m going in the opposite direction bag wise. Gifted myself a black Think Tank Retrospective 4 v.2. Holds one camera, one lens, filter pack, sd card wallet, batteries, Ricolas, id, and phone, and eye drops. As for the Give Away, I’m always wondering about who wins the bag and wish there was pic of them, and maybe an image they made. 😄🌿
Clicked the moment I got the notification, always looking forward to your content, bought my G9 thanks to you!
Great, well balanced video. A short segment of kit porn (the bag) which is just about enabling the main act... the photos, and hearing you talk through the composition and exposure choices is my main reason for watching.
Really enjoy your videos, im still learning photography. And I think its pretty difficult, still trying to learn all settings and stuff. Im using the Panasonic G9. Are you shooting in 4:3 or 16:9?
Beautiful shots , I love it bro , keep safe
9:33 WHAT is this soundtrack?! It's so amazing!!
Hi James. Interesting video. I notice that you not too kind to use tripods. I have one and carry it with me, but more of the time are a pain. I see people that carrie them on the bags, hanging somehow. I can't found the way. Any help?
Great video. Interesting take on these bags. Not heard a bad word against these. On a side note what boots were you wearing in this video?
I always look for quite places. Snowdonia has lots of amazing places to go. As always enjoy watching your vlogs 😊
Some great photos in this one. Yes, please do have a bag giveaway and soon. 13 or 14 camera bags is overkill, don't you think?
Another great video. Just wanted to let you know that because of your videos, today I went to pick up my new lumix g9. Loving it so far, keep up the great work 👍
If a review/recommendation is the result of a 'freebie' then a reviewer should have to include reference to the price of the item. People watch your channel James because you are an excellent photographer and produce a very down to earth, funny output. Thus, you are in todays terms, an 'influencer'. Shimoda sent you a free bag because of this. There is no mention in your presentation about the price and, from my experience, Shimoda are amongst the most expensive. This being so, it means they gifted you around £300. Congrats on the baby to you both (you and your wife not you and your baby although that as well of course!)