Many thanks for the excellent, honest review! I'm in the Kansas City, Missouri, area and use a thinkTank Streetwalker Harddrive. It's accompanied me on all of my travels the last six years, and it's still hanging in there.
Thanks Nick for a good, honest review. I've always preferred hiking backpacks as the few camera backpacks I've used (Tamrac, Lowepro, Kata) have never been comfortable on hikes. Osprey and Deuter packs are well made and extremely comfortable. My current pack is the Deuter Freerider 30 with a Tenba DSLR BYOB Insert. This comfortable pack is designed for ski touring and as such has rear access, so great when laying it on the wet ground which we almost continually experience in Wales
Great stuff Nick, and appreciate your critiques. I'm currently using Shimoda bags, the Action X50 and the Explorer II 25 (for travel), both phenomenal bags. Per your observation, the Shimoda comfort and fit was very ergonomically engineered and most likely designed by photographers who understand body movement when hiking. I've been told that the split waist belt design is what makes the bag so easy to carry through rough terrain. The only critique I've heard about Shimoda are that thin ICU dividers don't provide enough cushion for gear, but I have not seen that to be the case. This new F-Stop seems to be very well made, however, and I do like the nicely tailored look.
Hi Nick, just wanted to say to forget about the haters from the last video. Opening up is tough and should be applauded and not shamed. We love you man! I'm from North Wales in the UK and I currently use a K&F Concept bag. Hope you have a great day!
Hey Nick, I have an older Fstop Tilopa, happy to see that Fstop finally added pockets and a laptop slave to the camera compartment door. always wished mine had that
Hey Nick, I love your channel. I always appreciate your honest reviews, I trust your opinion. This is a great looking bag that will work for a lot of people. I hope that it is a success because competition is a good thing for consumers. However, I am a Shimoda girl. I learned of Shimoda bags because of you, bought an Action X30 version and could not be happier, I LOVE this bag! For me Shimoda offers the perfect combination of weight, design and serious comfort. They even offer an alternative shoulder strap for women who may find the design difference more comfortable. I have shoulder injuries and the Shimoda design is the only one that I can comfortably take on and off and walk around with for hours. Thanks again Nick for all your gorgeous photography, processing tips and all that you do, you have an awesome channel.
I like your straight forward equipment reviews. Straight and to the point no flowering. I am using a 1st generation F-Stop Ajna bag and it's old, with the straps with no padding so they dig in. I do alot of hiking. Have had to sew up a few spots on the bag a couple times. A new bag would make life easier for sure.
Hi Nick, I have the Anja 40 and mid slope. I have been carrying more gear and was looking to get Tilopa with bigger icu. I add two water bottle holders on each ring on each shoulder strap with phone in one side and water in other or use bladder sometimes. I use the small zip storage accessory for tissues and lens cloths. Then use lens barrels depending on trip function to make changing lenses quick. I like Fstop durability but do wish they had pockets on belt and shoulder straps like hiking packs. All in all good review and a nicely upgraded Tilopa with nice looking hardware. Glad to see you putting out quality videos like this. Enjoy the new pup.
Great review, Nick! Keeping it honest as always! I'm rocking Shimoda bags now, too. You can definitely see the designs that Ian Millar was working on when he led f-stop's designs carry their way over into Shimoda where he improved on almost everything. Never worn a bag as comfortable as my Shimoda bag.
NO WAY would I watch one of your reviews except for the fact they are awesome and they come from a guy who does the miles with his bags. Trying not to be a fanboy, you rock Nick.
Really enjoy the content and honest, real world discussion. I'm currently in Old Town, ME but bouncing around the state with school and internships. This summer I'll be on the Schoodic Peninsula side of Acadia National Park. I'm currently using a Kelty Redwing 44 with a F-Stop small ICU for day trips, and a Peak Design Everyday 6L sling for times when I just want to bring a camera and few extra bits. Cheers Nick.
Hi Nick! I'm Abe from Denver, Colorado. I currently use Osprey Manta 34. It's not made for cameras but i put a square insert in it for my gear. Its not perfect but it works. Only issue is the square insert doesn't leave enough room for a water bladder. Anyways, thanks for continuing to make great content! Cheers!
Live in Atlanta, GA and was using a Manfrotto bag that was fine before I went to a full frame camera and started carrying around more lenses. The wife, bless her heart, found a great deal on my Nikon D750 when I decided to upgrade to full frame a couple of years ago and that came with a FREE BAG! This Deco Gear camera bag hasn't been too bad, but the more gear I've added and the more miles I put on it, things have started to finally fail. Like the handle strap on the top and as of yesterday, the zipper on the main pocket. I have several trips coming up to Colorado, the UK, South America and possibly your neck of the woods (Oregon is one of the 4 states I haven't been to), and I need a new bag. Seeing the positives and negatives of more professional bags has been hugely helpful. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the F-Stop bag. And thank you for your honesty about all that you do. I have a ProMaster bag that doesn't fit my equipment. I have a Sony camera and lenses, and just got a 100-400 mm lens. And that bag is the type of bags I have been looking at. I appreciate all that I have seen you do. As a newbee, I enjoy your commentary, it helps me learn. Thanks so much.
Thanks for the review Nick! Camera bags are always interesting to me because comfort is important and its a really cool time to see companies really stepping up the camera bag game. I currently own a Shimoda Action X30, due in large part from your review and my thorough enjoyment of the F4 Road Trip and seeing the Shimoda bags in action. I currently reside in Ohio and just wanted to let you know I always look forward to your videos and your work has been a huge inspiration in my own landscape photography journey. Your tutorials and passion have played a major role in really growing my skill set. Thanks!
This bag might be for me. West Monroe Louisiana photographer. I currently use a osprey bag with a small photo insert. Thank you for Everything you do for our community.
Thank you Nick! Watching from Tennessee here. For regular shooting, I use a Lowepro Protactic bag. For shooting while backpacking, I use an Osprey backpack with a Mindshift insert.
You are correct, whenever someones asks for suggestions on bagd I suggest that they take their gear and try them on for fit. I’m in Gaithersburg MD and I currectly use a Lowenpro Flipside AW !!. One rthing I like about teh Fstop Tilopa DuraDiamond is that it looks more like a backpack than a camera bag.
Thanks for the review. I am a teacher near Seattle and I currently use an old F-stop anja bag. I do agree about the belt removal. That should be standard. Sometimes I want it and sometimes, for quick and short or car based shooting, or walking in airports, I'd prefer to not have it on.
Looks like an amazing bag. I'm Ahmet,big fan from Turkey. I am currently using a camera pouch which I toss into my regular backpack. The pouch takes only one body and a lens. So I put other equipments in the backpack where they freely move(I hope they enjoy it :). Sincerely I would be happy if this bag comes to me because I really need a camera bag but, it is a huge bag considering my minimal(not by choice) gears. I hope it goes to someone who needs it the most. Cheers mate.
I currently carry the Shimoda Action X50. Following your travels on TH-cam turned me on to them. You need an affiliate link with Shimoda IMO. I am in Spokane, WA. Great to see you back posting on TH-cam…I value your opinion and expertise.
Hi Nick. Great honest review. I am a wildlife and landscape photographer in upstate New York. I currently have the Think Tank Streetwalker camera bag. Keep the videos coming!
Hey Nick, What can I say, I love ya mate! Thank you for all the work you do,and bring to our screens, it has certainly not only helped me take a better photo, but become a better human being. You have the most wonderful and empowering energy my friend. Take care. much Love and Light. Jeff, Brisbane-Australia.
Hi Nick. Thanks for the honest review. Didn't pull any punches and we appreciate that. I do a bit of hiking in dense woods. Not very often do I hike groomed trails because here in Nova Scotia there aren't a whole lot of them, just dense thick bush which is hard on any camera Back-Pack. I currently have a V-2 20-litre backpack from Peak Design which barely holds all my gear which consists of 1 Fuji X-E2 and three lenses, some filters, a few batteries and three cards as well as some lens cleaning supplies like a Goittos Rocket blower some cloths and a bottle of lens cleaning fluid. A Manfrotto 190 XProB tripod. So all that crammed into a small camera bag makes for a tight squeeze, not much room left for a light snack, water and a water-proof jacket so this Fstop Tilopa bag, despite the weight concern seems to be something that would let my gear breathe a little.
Hi Nick. Glad to have you back making videos. I am from northern New York State and have a small Lowepro bag (“Tahoe” model maybe?). Thanks for the review.
I'm from Northern Kentucky and I use a Clik bag, which the company has gone out of business. It's a much smaller bag than the Fstop you are giving away. Thanks for the video, it was nice seeing how versatile the Fstop Tilopa bag is. I particularly like all the pockets.
Great review. I have the Shimoda action x50 and x30. I just finished 30 days in the Middle East with the x50. With the compete kit, the weight was 38lbs. I carried this bag every day all day, up and down the foot paths at Petra, through the Negev in Israel and all over Egypt. I used to carry a Lowe Pro 450, that wold kill me after a day carrying around this kit, but the Shimoda is a dream. It’s as comfortable as my Osprey 80 ltr trekking pack. I think you hit the nail on the head, if the pack is not comfortable then it doesn’t matter how tough it is, or how much gear you can stuff in it
God looking bag indeed. I'm currently using a Shimoda explorer 40, after seeing it on your channel. A great bag but the ICU is a bit small. One tip for you is to always use the waist belt. All bags are designed with the waist belt in mind. It makes a big difference. Greetings from cold Norway.
Rob Wasilewski, living in New Jersey. Current bag is a deteriorating LowePro Trekker (the foam backpad is turning into dust). Love your channel, it's unfortunate that bag didn't work out but seriously the waist belt is crucial and having backpacked 1000's of miles in my lifetime I cannot imagine not putting the weight on my hips, especially if I had a bad back. If you do any distance seriously look into perhaps having s custom waistbelt fabricated, I used to live in Boulder and had quite a few custom items made by some mountaineering shops, you back will thank you.
Thank you for giving me a chance to win a camera bag, I’m from Essex England and I have a 20 plus year old Tamrac and still in use. Keep up the great work and take care.
Long time subscriber from Issaquah around the corner from you. I'm currently using a cheap Amazon special as my camera bag, which means it usually stays home and I carry my limited gear around my neck. Glad to see another video, seems like a while.
Hi Nick, northern Colorado here. As always, I appreciate your honest review. I am currently using an older F stop Ajna and Tilopa. I am really enjoying my Shimoda action X 50 as well. I am a 5’4” woman, so the comfort is ok for me. Thanks for all of your honesty…period. 😊
Thanks for being honest when reviewing gear. Right now I am using the lowepro 450 I believe, great bag, but not comfortable hiking. Having a hiking bag built rugged would be awesome in the North West Montana weather. Thanks again
Thank you for what you do. The color on that bag is amazing. I currently use the small camera bag that came with my camera when i purchased it. I have boxes that i use for all my other stuff. I currently live in Arizona on the Navajo Nation where there are unlimited areas to take landscape images...
Thanks for the review Nick! Huge fan of yours here from New Zealand. I am not a fan of F Stop bags after I found their warranty comes with a lot of clauses. Their customer service is very questionable. Bought an F STOP Ajna and found out the hard way that they don't cover warranty for Zipper and a lot of other stuff on the bag. When my Zipper broke after 3 months of purchase and impacted the back flap from being closed properly, F STOP "reviewed" and decided that it was not covered by their warranty and said it was wear and tear LOL. (they only cover certain things as part of their warranty) To put this into context, I am a hobbyist and I baby my kit, That bag must have seen only 5 adventures and for F STOP to turn their back on their warranty was shocking. I will never buy another F STOP product again!
From Saginaw, MI. I currently use a smaller Manfrotto bag that I purchased at Best Buy a long time ago. It suits my needs for the most part but I would love to have a larger bag. Thank you for the continually great content.
From Canada Quebec here. I’m looking for my 1st hiking camera bag. I love photographie and I was to go more in to nature photography. Thank you for the video.
Toronto, CA (late to this party, ha) and I currently use a Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II and Love it as it is great for what I have presently. That being said when I do upgrade in the future I will need a bigger bag as I'll have either a 400mm f4 or 300mm f2.8 so I'll need more room at that point in time. Right now it works great for my 400mm f5.6 with enough room for everything else I keep in the baggy.
Hey Nick, im a living in the north of germany and i own only a very Old F Stop Shinn for my Hicks when i am for some days out in the nature. I wish you all the beste for the future and thanks a lot for the video.🐙
Thanks Nick it is really nice of you to to these giveaways! What I like with these type of bags is that they do not scream photobag when you look at them. Today I use whatever regular backpack I own couple with a knock of Chinese "ICU" but with also a front small bag to carry an extra lens and I found that really handy. Best from France
Great review on this camera bag Nick! I am from your neck of the woods, Richland Washington. And the camera bag I currently own is USA Gear camera backpack that was given to me a few Christmases ago... Been a good bag , not the most expensive but it has served me well so far.
Morning Nick. I'm in Toronto, Canada. I'm currently using the old F-Stop Ajna. I like the improvements to the strap padding and the durable buckles on the new design. Cheers and thanks for reviewing.
Hiya from Western Australia. I love your work and these gear reviews. I have not had a photography backpack but thinking it's going to become critical for comfortably trekking into those places worth shooting. All the best 😊.
Nick, I got my Shimoda Explorer 40 bag after you first talked about them when they were doing the kickstarter and have been using it since then. Remember when we did that Out of Moab workshop at Deadhorse State Park and almost all of us in the group had a Shimoda bag.
Great review of the bag. I’m in Michigan and use an old Lowepro Mini Trekker that I have had for years and have been looking to get a new bag that’s why I tuned in. Having said that, the price for this bag is a lot more than I am looking to spend, but I appreciate the honest review.
Lowepro trekker 550 AW II, hailing from Exeter, NH. I’m liking the ICU options to tailor the load, balancing it with travel gear space. Thanks for,the review.
Nick, I appreciate the honesty with all your reviews! I live in Portland, Oregon. At the moment I’m using the original Shimoda Explore 40. It’s a great bag, although I’ve noticed a lack of space when traveling. I’d totally be into trying out the F-Stop bags; they’ve always seemed like a great alternative, especially this new Tilopa!
I always enjoy your camera bag reviews-Very informative without being boring! I currently use the Atlas Athlete bag as my main hiking camera bag. I live in El Paso, Tx.
I‘m very happy with the Atlas Athlete and Adventure. Depending on what to carry. F-Stop didn‘t felt comfortable and the ICU isn’t that stable like the Shimodas. Also tried the Action X, but the roll top wasn‘t mine… So Atlas 😎 Even with the import fees. Stay save, take care - thank you for the great videos Nick!
Currently using the PM Nomatic bag in Arkansas. Great for traveling but carrying 30-40 pounds of gear on a hike with it is no bueno for sure. Thanks for a great, honest review on the Tilopa!
Hi Nick, Jimmy here from the Pilbara in the North of Western Australia I have a Lowepro Flipside 400 aw 11 ,owned this a few years now and does the job pretty well....stay safe and god bless...😊
Like you videos Nick. I’m living in Denmark. Currently I’m using my 20 year old Lowepro CompuTrekker AW. Still going, but not going strong. So that red f-stopper beast is more than welcome here in rainy Denmark.
Hey Nick, camera bags are definitely a personal choice. I like you judge by fit and weight. I have used Tamarac bags in the past and now use LowePro bags. I have two LowePro 350 tac bags for my full size DLSR’s and two smaller 150 size bags for my small mirrorless cameras. Depending on the length of my hike, will determine which bag I use. I’m 63 and have had back surgery when I was about 45, so weight on my back makes a difference. Love your work, keep it up.
From Az. currently using a Lowepro Protactic 450- great bag BUT it has room to carry my kit but zero room for anything else. Not going carry your lunch or a rain jacket or hydration bag etc- Carrie’s your kit and that’s it.
Thank you Nick, I am currently using a regular back pack with padded lens pouches,I generally only carry 1 extra lens and a few filters and lens cloths
Your gear reviews haven't steered me wrong so far. Currently using a Shimoda Action x30 but have had my eyes on some Fstop bags, and this one's a beaut. I'm nextdoor in Oregon...
Thanks for the review Nick as a non ordinary guy. I, like many others, have a collection of bags after 40 years from Billingham shoulder bags, 3 original Kiboko bags (18,26 and 30 ltr) and, when Shimoda had some trouble with their Kickstarter two years ago, I canceled my order and bought the F-stop Tilopa. Very happy with it and very comfortable to use. I’m from Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
Craig from Saint Paul, MN. I had an F-stop bag, but I switched to the Shimoda because it was better for traveling. The F-stop that I had didn't have a laptop sleeve and wasn't as expandable. However, I did think that the F-stop bag gave me better access to my gear than the Shimoda. Looks like F-stop has addressed the things that I thought were missing from my previous bag. It would be a tough decision if I were making the choice today.
Nick, I watch your videos knowing that I will get honest and knowledgeable input. One can tell you are sincere about both the good and bad. Thank you!! I am from Florida and currently use a Shimoda Action 60, however had to use an InCase backpack for a recent trip to accommodate smaller plane overhead bins. It fit in the overhead bin but was quite uncomfortable to use and very heavy. I love the look (red is my favorite :) of this Fstop Tilopa. The "upgrades"--material, metal/locking buckles and "use" of storage space on back flap--all appeal to me. Would love a chance to try this one out. Thanks for the great info. Keep up the great work.
Nice review Nick! Chehalis Washington here, and I’m using the Shimoda Action x30 right now and agree on the comfort you speak of with Shimoda bags. I always liked the look of the Fstop bags but never bought one.
Much appreciated your honest review Nick. The F-stop really looks amazing!! I currently use a Lowepro Pro-Tactic 350 but would love to have a bigger one 😜 specially to be able to carry spare dry clothing when hiking. I follow you and your channel from the basque country in Spain. Take care you too!
I'm here in the wonderful RDU area of North Carolina. I have a Lowpro 450aw and Protactic 450, they are "okay" as I don't get to use them much. I don't need your bag, but wanted to comment on the review, it probably one of the best I've watched. Lot's of the bag reviews I've seen the bag still had tags attached. Doubt the reviewer ever took it out.
Great review, I love your channel. I am from Boise Idaho and I am currently using a [pro]master large impulse bag definitely a cheap uncomfortable bag, however it gets the job done for the most part. I'm glad you did a real review and not one that sounded sponsored. I can't wait to see more tutorials and your storm chasing.
Love the honest review, Nick. I’m here in Bend, Oregon and use an old beat up F-stop Anja. Definitely looking to upgrade soon. I love some of the features they’ve improved on this model like the fabric, the inside flap storage space, and the outside hydration bladder storage spot. As always, love your content 🤙🏼
California, here. I have the LowePro Protactic 450 AW. It's a big bag, but plenty heavy. Part of the heaviness is that part of it is a hard-shell. It is OK for comfort, and I'm really used to it. But, I also tend to haul a lot of gear with me, making the bag even heavier. I'd love to try a new bag, because it seems like I'm never quite happy with the bag I have. (Grass is greener syndrome?) Love your videos and look forward to more of them.
Hi Nick!! Great video (as usual) , I am from South Carolina. As far as my bag.... I have a Lowepro (it fit the budget that I had after getting my camera). But I take it every where with me and she is hanging in there... Thanks again for all that you do, I have learned so much from you. PS I would love if the F4 group would do more videos together. It was truly enjoyable.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this bag. I, like you, do not have a “normal” photographer build. At 6’2” and 260lbs. I have difficulty finding a bag that can carry all that I need, and is comfortable for long hikes. My current bag is the Lowpro 450 AW II, which is okay, but can be a little uncomfortable when I have it loaded down with gear. Also, the sternum strap tends to ride up until it’s almost across my neck, which isn’t fun. Now you’ve got me considering the Shimoda Explore for my trip to Portugal later this year. We will be doing a lot of hiking and I want to be able to carry all my gear (camera, lenses, gimbal, drone, etc.) without killing my back or shoulder throughout the day. Thanks for all the great videos, keep it up! My wife and I live in Northern California, so hopefully we will run into you in the field someday, either in our area or in the PNW.
I'm from New Hampshire and I am currently using a 12 year old Dakine Heli-Pro skiing backpack as my camera bag. It's not comfy or convenient but it does the job
Enjoyed the review, many thanks. I'm in Wiltshire, UK and currently using the Shimoda X70 for most of my time on the hills and a Lowepro Flipside 500 when I don't need as much gear.
Hi! I'm from Belgium and I currently use a Case Logic bag. Would be nice having a new larger bag though! I also would like to say that I love your channel so much. Very cool places you visit and I learn a lot from watching this channel.
Hi Nick, I discovered your channel a few weeks ago and I greatly appreciate the reviews, tips and approach to photography. I’m from Montreal, Canada. Back in the mid 1980s I bought a Lowepro Magnum35 shoulder bag and a Lowepro Orion fanny pack to carry my gear ( Contax 159MM, Carl Zeiss lenses and a Yashica MAT 124G). I’ve recently retired and I’ll finally have some time to do some landscape photography. I put my DSLR gear in the Magnum35 and carry it in my 30 years old expedition backpack. It’s not the prettiest and obliviously not the most efficient solution but it gets the job done (if you get to location with enough time to set up for the light)😉. Carry on with your great work and take care.
Thanks for the great review on the new Tilopa bag. I am from New Jersey. I currently use the Fstop Guru and an older Tilopa. Was looking into the Shimoda Explorer V2 bag for future purchase. I agree comfort is essential when hauling gear. I appreciate your honest review.
First off I am glad you have recovered from Covid. I am in New Mexico so especially enjoy your desert travels as well as your world sojourns. Your review was appreciated for its honesty and you covered all aspects very well. Currently, I only have an Amazon $50.00 bag which actually works well for organizing and storing my gear - but is not useful for much serious hiking - no water bottle or pockets for jackets, etc.
Hi Nick, I always appreciate your honest reviews which is a thing hard to find these days! Right now I'm using "Lowpro Flipside Treck BP 450 Aw" as my camera bag!
Hey I’m from Greenville,SC and currently using a homemade camera bag ,I took a day pack that would open up flat to access my gear and made my own padded dividers have now outgrown it with gear upgrades and in bad need of a better one,love the information and your videos thanks and have a good day
Dianne Johnson Thanks for the great review! My current backpack is USA Gear. Not an expensive bag but it does the trick. The hip straps are very important for me, takes the pressure of my shoulders. Just started watching your videos and have been learning a lot. Thanks, from central Minnesota
Thanks for the honest review. I’m living in Southern California. I use a 14L Tenba roll top bag for short excursions. When I’m going to be out all day or longer, I use a normal backpack with a Peak Design gear packing cube.
Hey Nick. That is a good looking bag. I think Mark Denny just reviewed this bag. I'm using a Caden camera back pack. It's simple and works quite well for tooling around the Grand Valley, PA area.
Dear Mr Page, Thank you for posting your most comprehensive review of this F-Stop rucksack. I reside in the south of the United Kingdom and a bag such as this would certainly allow me to carry a great deal more than my current Tenba BYOB 9 and Osprey combination. Kind Regards, SImon F
Hi, From Algeria, and actualy I own a simple little bag from Quechua, not really a travel/photography bag, I really dig this red color, Thank you for you content, wish you the best, Keep going and good luck.
Many thanks for the excellent, honest review! I'm in the Kansas City, Missouri, area and use a thinkTank Streetwalker Harddrive. It's accompanied me on all of my travels the last six years, and it's still hanging in there.
I use the older version of this and absolutely love it. Would recommend it 100 percent. Suits me just fine and is definitely waterproof.
Thanks Nick for a good, honest review. I've always preferred hiking backpacks as the few camera backpacks I've used (Tamrac, Lowepro, Kata) have never been comfortable on hikes. Osprey and Deuter packs are well made and extremely comfortable. My current pack is the Deuter Freerider 30 with a Tenba DSLR BYOB Insert. This comfortable pack is designed for ski touring and as such has rear access, so great when laying it on the wet ground which we almost continually experience in Wales
Great stuff Nick, and appreciate your critiques. I'm currently using Shimoda bags, the Action X50 and the Explorer II 25 (for travel), both phenomenal bags. Per your observation, the Shimoda comfort and fit was very ergonomically engineered and most likely designed by photographers who understand body movement when hiking. I've been told that the split waist belt design is what makes the bag so easy to carry through rough terrain. The only critique I've heard about Shimoda are that thin ICU dividers don't provide enough cushion for gear, but I have not seen that to be the case. This new F-Stop seems to be very well made, however, and I do like the nicely tailored look.
Hi Nick, just wanted to say to forget about the haters from the last video. Opening up is tough and should be applauded and not shamed. We love you man!
I'm from North Wales in the UK and I currently use a K&F Concept bag.
Hope you have a great day!
Hey Nick, I have an older Fstop Tilopa, happy to see that Fstop finally added pockets and a laptop slave to the camera compartment door. always wished mine had that
Hey Nick, I love your channel. I always appreciate your honest reviews, I trust your opinion. This is a great looking bag that will work for a lot of people. I hope that it is a success because competition is a good thing for consumers.
However, I am a Shimoda girl. I learned of Shimoda bags because of you, bought an Action X30 version and could not be happier, I LOVE this bag! For me Shimoda offers the perfect combination of weight, design and serious comfort. They even offer an alternative shoulder strap for women who may find the design difference more comfortable. I have shoulder injuries and the Shimoda design is the only one that I can comfortably take on and off and walk around with for hours. Thanks again Nick for all your gorgeous photography, processing tips and all that you do, you have an awesome channel.
I have been using the Tenba Shootout 24L since 2014 and its starting to show. Love your gear reviews!
I like your straight forward equipment reviews. Straight and to the point no flowering. I am using a 1st generation F-Stop Ajna bag and it's old, with the straps with no padding so they dig in. I do alot of hiking. Have had to sew up a few spots on the bag a couple times. A new bag would make life easier for sure.
Hi Nick, I have the Anja 40 and mid slope. I have been carrying more gear and was looking to get Tilopa with bigger icu. I add two water bottle holders on each ring on each shoulder strap with phone in one side and water in other or use bladder sometimes. I use the small zip storage accessory for tissues and lens cloths. Then use lens barrels depending on trip function to make changing lenses quick. I like Fstop durability but do wish they had pockets on belt and shoulder straps like hiking packs. All in all good review and a nicely upgraded Tilopa with nice looking hardware. Glad to see you putting out quality videos like this. Enjoy the new pup.
Great review, Nick! Keeping it honest as always! I'm rocking Shimoda bags now, too. You can definitely see the designs that Ian Millar was working on when he led f-stop's designs carry their way over into Shimoda where he improved on almost everything. Never worn a bag as comfortable as my Shimoda bag.
NO WAY would I watch one of your reviews except for the fact they are awesome and they come from a guy who does the miles with his bags. Trying not to be a fanboy, you rock Nick.
Really enjoy the content and honest, real world discussion. I'm currently in Old Town, ME but bouncing around the state with school and internships. This summer I'll be on the Schoodic Peninsula side of Acadia National Park. I'm currently using a Kelty Redwing 44 with a F-Stop small ICU for day trips, and a Peak Design Everyday 6L sling for times when I just want to bring a camera and few extra bits. Cheers Nick.
Hi Nick! I'm Abe from Denver, Colorado. I currently use Osprey Manta 34. It's not made for cameras but i put a square insert in it for my gear. Its not perfect but it works. Only issue is the square insert doesn't leave enough room for a water bladder. Anyways, thanks for continuing to make great content! Cheers!
Hello, From Duluth, MN. I use to OG Tilopa. Would love the new one, my bucles are wearing out! ( Happy to see you again)
Live in Atlanta, GA and was using a Manfrotto bag that was fine before I went to a full frame camera and started carrying around more lenses. The wife, bless her heart, found a great deal on my Nikon D750 when I decided to upgrade to full frame a couple of years ago and that came with a FREE BAG! This Deco Gear camera bag hasn't been too bad, but the more gear I've added and the more miles I put on it, things have started to finally fail. Like the handle strap on the top and as of yesterday, the zipper on the main pocket. I have several trips coming up to Colorado, the UK, South America and possibly your neck of the woods (Oregon is one of the 4 states I haven't been to), and I need a new bag. Seeing the positives and negatives of more professional bags has been hugely helpful. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the F-Stop bag. And thank you for your honesty about all that you do. I have a ProMaster bag that doesn't fit my equipment. I have a Sony camera and lenses, and just got a 100-400 mm lens. And that bag is the type of bags I have been looking at. I appreciate all that I have seen you do. As a newbee, I enjoy your commentary, it helps me learn. Thanks so much.
Thanks for the review Nick! Camera bags are always interesting to me because comfort is important and its a really cool time to see companies really stepping up the camera bag game. I currently own a Shimoda Action X30, due in large part from your review and my thorough enjoyment of the F4 Road Trip and seeing the Shimoda bags in action. I currently reside in Ohio and just wanted to let you know I always look forward to your videos and your work has been a huge inspiration in my own landscape photography journey. Your tutorials and passion have played a major role in really growing my skill set. Thanks!
Glad to see you posting new videos! I am in Scottsdale, AZ and I use an old-as-dirt Tamrac Cyberpack 6 with a busted zipper, LOL.
This bag might be for me. West Monroe Louisiana photographer. I currently use a osprey bag with a small photo insert. Thank you for Everything you do for our community.
Thank you Nick! Watching from Tennessee here. For regular shooting, I use a Lowepro Protactic bag. For shooting while backpacking, I use an Osprey backpack with a Mindshift insert.
You are correct, whenever someones asks for suggestions on bagd I suggest that they take their gear and try them on for fit. I’m in Gaithersburg MD and I currectly use a Lowenpro Flipside AW !!. One rthing I like about teh Fstop Tilopa DuraDiamond is that it looks more like a backpack than a camera bag.
Thanks for the review. I am a teacher near Seattle and I currently use an old F-stop anja bag. I do agree about the belt removal. That should be standard. Sometimes I want it and sometimes, for quick and short or car based shooting, or walking in airports, I'd prefer to not have it on.
Hey Nick, I'm from Idaho, I would love to have a new bag. I've been using inserts in my Osprey pack
Looks like an amazing bag. I'm Ahmet,big fan from Turkey. I am currently using a camera pouch which I toss into my regular backpack. The pouch takes only one body and a lens. So I put other equipments in the backpack where they freely move(I hope they enjoy it :).
Sincerely I would be happy if this bag comes to me because I really need a camera bag but, it is a huge bag considering my minimal(not by choice) gears. I hope it goes to someone who needs it the most. Cheers mate.
I currently carry the Shimoda Action X50. Following your travels on TH-cam turned me on to them. You need an affiliate link with Shimoda IMO. I am in Spokane, WA. Great to see you back posting on TH-cam…I value your opinion and expertise.
Hi Nick. Great honest review. I am a wildlife and landscape photographer in upstate New York. I currently have the Think Tank Streetwalker camera bag. Keep the videos coming!
Hey Nick, What can I say, I love ya mate! Thank you for all the work you do,and bring to our screens, it has certainly not only helped me take a better photo, but become a better human being. You have the most wonderful and empowering energy my friend. Take care.
much Love and Light. Jeff, Brisbane-Australia.
Hi Nick. Thanks for the honest review. Didn't pull any punches and we appreciate that.
I do a bit of hiking in dense woods. Not very often do I hike groomed trails because here in Nova Scotia there aren't a whole lot of them, just dense thick bush which is hard on any camera Back-Pack. I currently have a V-2 20-litre backpack from Peak Design which barely holds all my gear which consists of 1 Fuji X-E2 and three lenses, some filters, a few batteries and three cards as well as some lens cleaning supplies like a Goittos Rocket blower some cloths and a bottle of lens cleaning fluid. A Manfrotto 190 XProB tripod. So all that crammed into a small camera bag makes for a tight squeeze, not much room left for a light snack, water and a water-proof jacket so this Fstop Tilopa bag, despite the weight concern seems to be something that would let my gear breathe a little.
Hi Nick. Glad to have you back making videos. I am from northern New York State and have a small Lowepro bag (“Tahoe” model maybe?). Thanks for the review.
Greetings from Iowa!
I use an older Tilopa bag and love it.
This new one looks even better!
I am from Ottawa in Canada and I currently use a Vanguard backpack. Fair and honest review.
I'm from Northern Kentucky and I use a Clik bag, which the company has gone out of business. It's a much smaller bag than the Fstop you are giving away. Thanks for the video, it was nice seeing how versatile the Fstop Tilopa bag is. I particularly like all the pockets.
Great review. I have the Shimoda action x50 and x30. I just finished 30 days in the Middle East with the x50. With the compete kit, the weight was 38lbs. I carried this bag every day all day, up and down the foot paths at Petra, through the Negev in Israel and all over Egypt. I used to carry a Lowe Pro 450, that wold kill me after a day carrying around this kit, but the Shimoda is a dream. It’s as comfortable as my Osprey 80 ltr trekking pack. I think you hit the nail on the head, if the pack is not comfortable then it doesn’t matter how tough it is, or how much gear you can stuff in it
God looking bag indeed. I'm currently using a Shimoda explorer 40, after seeing it on your channel. A great bag but the ICU is a bit small.
One tip for you is to always use the waist belt. All bags are designed with the waist belt in mind. It makes a big difference.
Greetings from cold Norway.
Rob Wasilewski, living in New Jersey. Current bag is a deteriorating LowePro Trekker (the foam backpad is turning into dust). Love your channel, it's unfortunate that bag didn't work out but seriously the waist belt is crucial and having backpacked 1000's of miles in my lifetime I cannot imagine not putting the weight on my hips, especially if I had a bad back. If you do any distance seriously look into perhaps having s custom waistbelt fabricated, I used to live in Boulder and had quite a few custom items made by some mountaineering shops, you back will thank you.
Thank you for giving me a chance to win a camera bag, I’m from Essex England and I have a 20 plus year old Tamrac and still in use. Keep up the great work and take care.
Long time subscriber from Issaquah around the corner from you. I'm currently using a cheap Amazon special as my camera bag, which means it usually stays home and I carry my limited gear around my neck. Glad to see another video, seems like a while.
Hi Nick, northern Colorado here. As always, I appreciate your honest review. I am currently using an older F stop Ajna and Tilopa. I am really enjoying my Shimoda action X 50 as well. I am a 5’4” woman, so the comfort is ok for me. Thanks for all of your honesty…period. 😊
Thanks for being honest when reviewing gear. Right now I am using the lowepro 450 I believe, great bag, but not comfortable hiking. Having a hiking bag built rugged would be awesome in the North West Montana weather. Thanks again
Thank you for what you do. The color on that bag is amazing. I currently use the small camera bag that came with my camera when i purchased it. I have boxes that i use for all my other stuff. I currently live in Arizona on the Navajo Nation where there are unlimited areas to take landscape images...
Thanks for the review Nick! Huge fan of yours here from New Zealand. I am not a fan of F Stop bags after I found their warranty comes with a lot of clauses.
Their customer service is very questionable.
Bought an F STOP Ajna and found out the hard way that they don't cover warranty for Zipper and a lot of other stuff on the bag. When my Zipper broke after
3 months of purchase and impacted the back flap from being closed properly, F STOP "reviewed" and decided that it was not covered by their warranty and said it was wear and tear LOL. (they only cover certain things as part of their warranty)
To put this into context, I am a hobbyist and I baby my kit, That bag must have seen only 5 adventures and for F STOP to turn their back on their warranty was shocking.
I will never buy another F STOP product again!
From Saginaw, MI. I currently use a smaller Manfrotto bag that I purchased at Best Buy a long time ago. It suits my needs for the most part but I would love to have a larger bag. Thank you for the continually great content.
From Canada Quebec here. I’m looking for my 1st hiking camera bag. I love photographie and I was to go more in to nature photography. Thank you for the video.
Toronto, CA (late to this party, ha) and I currently use a Lowepro Flipside 400 AW II and Love it as it is great for what I have presently.
That being said when I do upgrade in the future I will need a bigger bag as I'll have either a 400mm f4 or 300mm f2.8 so I'll need more room at that point in time.
Right now it works great for my 400mm f5.6 with enough room for everything else I keep in the baggy.
Hey Nick, im a living in the north of germany and i own only a very Old F Stop Shinn for my Hicks when i am for some days out in the nature. I wish you all the beste for the future and thanks a lot for the video.🐙
Thanks Nick it is really nice of you to to these giveaways! What I like with these type of bags is that they do not scream photobag when you look at them. Today I use whatever regular backpack I own couple with a knock of Chinese "ICU" but with also a front small bag to carry an extra lens and I found that really handy. Best from France
Thanks Nick, I really appreciate all that you have shared with us. I am in Australia and currently use a Vanguard back pack.
Great review on this camera bag Nick! I am from your neck of the woods, Richland Washington. And the camera bag I currently own is USA Gear camera backpack that was given to me a few Christmases ago... Been a good bag , not the most expensive but it has served me well so far.
Morning Nick. I'm in Toronto, Canada. I'm currently using the old F-Stop Ajna. I like the improvements to the strap padding and the durable buckles on the new design. Cheers and thanks for reviewing.
Hiya from Western Australia. I love your work and these gear reviews. I have not had a photography backpack but thinking it's going to become critical for comfortably trekking into those places worth shooting. All the best 😊.
From Chicago, currently using Shimoda. Thanks for the review Nick, you always give honest ones.
I applaud the honest review. I'm located in NE Georgia with a worn-out Tamrac backpack.
Great to see your video again! Cupertino, CA, Lowepro!
Nick, I got my Shimoda Explorer 40 bag after you first talked about them when they were doing the kickstarter and have been using it since then. Remember when we did that Out of Moab workshop at Deadhorse State Park and almost all of us in the group had a Shimoda bag.
Great review of the bag. I’m in Michigan and use an old Lowepro Mini Trekker that I have had for years and have been looking to get a new bag that’s why I tuned in. Having said that, the price for this bag is a lot more than I am looking to spend, but I appreciate the honest review.
Lowepro trekker 550 AW II, hailing from Exeter, NH. I’m liking the ICU options to tailor the load, balancing it with travel gear space. Thanks for,the review.
Nick,
I appreciate the honesty with all your reviews! I live in Portland, Oregon. At the moment I’m using the original Shimoda Explore 40. It’s a great bag, although I’ve noticed a lack of space when traveling. I’d totally be into trying out the F-Stop bags; they’ve always seemed like a great alternative, especially this new Tilopa!
Hi Nick, have missed you lately as we always enjoy your videos. I am in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and I currently us an Atlas bag. Cheers....
Shimoda sizes are more carry on friendly yet expandable after landing in case that is a consideration.
I always enjoy your camera bag reviews-Very informative without being boring! I currently use the Atlas Athlete bag as my main hiking camera bag. I live in El Paso, Tx.
I‘m very happy with the Atlas Athlete and Adventure. Depending on what to carry. F-Stop didn‘t felt comfortable and the ICU isn’t that stable like the Shimodas. Also tried the Action X, but the roll top wasn‘t mine… So Atlas 😎 Even with the import fees.
Stay save, take care - thank you for the great videos Nick!
Atlas all the way!
Currently using the PM Nomatic bag in Arkansas. Great for traveling but carrying 30-40 pounds of gear on a hike with it is no bueno for sure. Thanks for a great, honest review on the Tilopa!
Hi Nick, Jimmy here from the Pilbara in the North of Western Australia I have a Lowepro Flipside 400 aw 11 ,owned this a few years now and does the job pretty well....stay safe and god bless...😊
Hey Nick, gald to see you back and stay well.
I'm from Orlando, FL and use a Shimoda Action X50 bag.
Like you videos Nick. I’m living in Denmark. Currently I’m using my 20 year old Lowepro CompuTrekker AW. Still going, but not going strong. So that red f-stopper beast is more than welcome here in rainy Denmark.
Hey Nick, camera bags are definitely a personal choice. I like you judge by fit and weight. I have used Tamarac bags in the past and now use LowePro bags. I have two LowePro 350 tac bags for my full size DLSR’s and two smaller 150 size bags for my small mirrorless cameras. Depending on the length of my hike, will determine which bag I use. I’m 63 and have had back surgery when I was about 45, so weight on my back makes a difference. Love your work, keep it up.
From Az. currently using a Lowepro Protactic 450- great bag BUT it has room to carry my kit but zero room for anything else. Not going carry your lunch or a rain jacket or hydration bag etc- Carrie’s your kit and that’s it.
Thank you Nick, I am currently using a regular back pack with padded lens pouches,I generally only carry 1 extra lens and a few filters and lens cloths
Your gear reviews haven't steered me wrong so far. Currently using a Shimoda Action x30 but have had my eyes on some Fstop bags, and this one's a beaut. I'm nextdoor in Oregon...
Thanks for the review Nick as a non ordinary guy. I, like many others, have a collection of bags after 40 years from Billingham shoulder bags, 3 original Kiboko bags (18,26 and 30 ltr) and, when Shimoda had some trouble with their Kickstarter two years ago, I canceled my order and bought the F-stop Tilopa. Very happy with it and very comfortable to use. I’m from Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
Craig from Saint Paul, MN. I had an F-stop bag, but I switched to the Shimoda because it was better for traveling. The F-stop that I had didn't have a laptop sleeve and wasn't as expandable. However, I did think that the F-stop bag gave me better access to my gear than the Shimoda. Looks like F-stop has addressed the things that I thought were missing from my previous bag. It would be a tough decision if I were making the choice today.
Nick, I watch your videos knowing that I will get honest and knowledgeable input. One can tell you are sincere about both the good and bad. Thank you!! I am from Florida and currently use a Shimoda Action 60, however had to use an InCase backpack for a recent trip to accommodate smaller plane overhead bins. It fit in the overhead bin but was quite uncomfortable to use and very heavy. I love the look (red is my favorite :) of this Fstop Tilopa. The "upgrades"--material, metal/locking buckles and "use" of storage space on back flap--all appeal to me. Would love a chance to try this one out. Thanks for the great info. Keep up the great work.
Nice review Nick! Chehalis Washington here, and I’m using the Shimoda Action x30 right now and agree on the comfort you speak of with Shimoda bags. I always liked the look of the Fstop bags but never bought one.
I’ve got a cheap canvas bag that I bought on eBay some years back. Out here in El Paso,Tx. Thanks for all the cool videos🤙🏼
Much appreciated your honest review Nick. The F-stop really looks amazing!! I currently use a Lowepro Pro-Tactic 350 but would love to have a bigger one 😜 specially to be able to carry spare dry clothing when hiking. I follow you and your channel from the basque country in Spain. Take care you too!
I'm here in the wonderful RDU area of North Carolina. I have a Lowpro 450aw and Protactic 450, they are "okay" as I don't get to use them much. I don't need your bag, but wanted to comment on the review, it probably one of the best I've watched. Lot's of the bag reviews I've seen the bag still had tags attached. Doubt the reviewer ever took it out.
Thanks Nick for bringing this information to us. I’m from Battlefield, Missouri and currently carry my Canon gear in a Canon camera bag.
Great review, I love your channel. I am from Boise Idaho and I am currently using a [pro]master large impulse bag definitely a cheap uncomfortable bag, however it gets the job done for the most part. I'm glad you did a real review and not one that sounded sponsored. I can't wait to see more tutorials and your storm chasing.
Love the honest review, Nick. I’m here in Bend, Oregon and use an old beat up F-stop Anja. Definitely looking to upgrade soon. I love some of the features they’ve improved on this model like the fabric, the inside flap storage space, and the outside hydration bladder storage spot. As always, love your content 🤙🏼
California, here. I have the LowePro Protactic 450 AW. It's a big bag, but plenty heavy. Part of the heaviness is that part of it is a hard-shell. It is OK for comfort, and I'm really used to it. But, I also tend to haul a lot of gear with me, making the bag even heavier. I'd love to try a new bag, because it seems like I'm never quite happy with the bag I have. (Grass is greener syndrome?)
Love your videos and look forward to more of them.
Hi Nick!! Great video (as usual) , I am from South Carolina. As far as my bag.... I have a Lowepro (it fit the budget that I had after getting my camera). But I take it every where with me and she is hanging in there... Thanks again for all that you do, I have learned so much from you. PS I would love if the F4 group would do more videos together. It was truly enjoyable.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this bag. I, like you, do not have a “normal” photographer build. At 6’2” and 260lbs. I have difficulty finding a bag that can carry all that I need, and is comfortable for long hikes. My current bag is the Lowpro 450 AW II, which is okay, but can be a little uncomfortable when I have it loaded down with gear. Also, the sternum strap tends to ride up until it’s almost across my neck, which isn’t fun. Now you’ve got me considering the Shimoda Explore for my trip to Portugal later this year. We will be doing a lot of hiking and I want to be able to carry all my gear (camera, lenses, gimbal, drone, etc.) without killing my back or shoulder throughout the day. Thanks for all the great videos, keep it up! My wife and I live in Northern California, so hopefully we will run into you in the field someday, either in our area or in the PNW.
I'm from New Hampshire and I am currently using a 12 year old Dakine Heli-Pro skiing backpack as my camera bag. It's not comfy or convenient but it does the job
Enjoyed the review, many thanks.
I'm in Wiltshire, UK and currently using the Shimoda X70 for most of my time on the hills and a Lowepro Flipside 500 when I don't need as much gear.
I really like your reviews as they are always honest. I currently have a Shimoda Explore.
Hi Nick, I appreciate the honest review. I am from Ireland and I have a Lowepro flipside 300 for quite a few years now, but I would love to upgrade ☺️
Hi! I'm from Belgium and I currently use a Case Logic bag. Would be nice having a new larger bag though! I also would like to say that I love your channel so much. Very cool places you visit and I learn a lot from watching this channel.
Hi Nick, I discovered your channel a few weeks ago and I greatly appreciate the reviews, tips and approach to photography. I’m from Montreal, Canada. Back in the mid 1980s I bought a Lowepro Magnum35 shoulder bag and a Lowepro Orion fanny pack to carry my gear ( Contax 159MM, Carl Zeiss lenses and a Yashica MAT 124G). I’ve recently retired and I’ll finally have some time to do some landscape photography. I put my DSLR gear in the Magnum35 and carry it in my 30 years old expedition backpack. It’s not the prettiest and obliviously not the most efficient solution but it gets the job done (if you get to location with enough time to set up for the light)😉. Carry on with your great work and take care.
Hello Nick!! Because of YOU...I have the Shimoda X50, X7 0 and the EXP 35....I'm form Los Angeles!!!!
Thanks for the great review on the new Tilopa bag. I am from New Jersey. I currently use the Fstop Guru and an older Tilopa. Was looking into the Shimoda Explorer V2 bag for future purchase. I agree comfort is essential when hauling gear. I appreciate your honest review.
I use a hiking bag with an insert. Fun times! Great review, nice to see solid critique/pros and cons.
I'm in SLC, UT and I have a Shimoda because of your (and a few others') love of them.
First off I am glad you have recovered from Covid. I am in New Mexico so especially enjoy your desert travels as well as your world sojourns.
Your review was appreciated for its honesty and you covered all aspects very well. Currently, I only have an Amazon $50.00 bag which actually works well for organizing and storing my gear - but is not useful for much serious hiking - no water bottle or pockets for jackets, etc.
Hi Nick, I always appreciate your honest reviews which is a thing hard to find these days! Right now I'm using "Lowpro Flipside Treck BP 450 Aw" as my camera bag!
Hey I’m from Greenville,SC and currently using a homemade camera bag ,I took a day pack that would open up flat to access my gear and made my own padded dividers have now outgrown it with gear upgrades and in bad need of a better one,love the information and your videos thanks and have a good day
Dianne Johnson
Thanks for the great review! My current backpack is USA Gear. Not an expensive bag but it does the trick. The hip straps are very important for me, takes the pressure of my shoulders. Just started watching your videos and have been learning a lot. Thanks, from central Minnesota
Thanks for the honest review. I’m living in Southern California. I use a 14L Tenba roll top bag for short excursions. When I’m going to be out all day or longer, I use a normal backpack with a Peak Design gear packing cube.
Hey Nick. That is a good looking bag. I think Mark Denny just reviewed this bag. I'm using a Caden camera back pack. It's simple and works quite well for tooling around the Grand Valley, PA area.
Dear Mr Page,
Thank you for posting your most comprehensive review of this F-Stop rucksack. I reside in the south of the United Kingdom and a bag such as this would certainly allow me to carry a great deal more than my current Tenba BYOB 9 and Osprey combination. Kind Regards, SImon F
Hi, From Algeria, and actualy I own a simple little bag from Quechua, not really a travel/photography bag, I really dig this red color, Thank you for you content, wish you the best, Keep going and good luck.