Good backpack for 4x5 field work? [Archive] - Large Format Photography Forum

Ralph Upchurch

10-Dec-2006, 10:37

I am looking to get a backpack to carry my 4x5 field camera and gear, and am interested in peoples experience and opinions. I plan to use it both around town and for travel.

In the past, I used a full-size internal frame backpack, not designed for photography. It was not padded, had a large, open top compartment, and a smaller lower compartment where I kept my film holders and film. I have kept the camera and lenses wrapped in Domke wraps, with an extra layer of bubble wrap, which has worked quite well. I carry three lenses, meter, focusing cloth, changing bag, and assorted accessories. My old bag was large enough to carry the tripod inside.

I would consider a pack designed for photography rather than camping if that would be more functional. Suggestions are welcome!

Thanks, Ralph

Ron Marshall

10-Dec-2006, 10:47

One that has been recommended by many on this site is Photobackpacker:

http://www.photobackpacker.com/home.asp

I have a $100 Kelty Coyote; lots of room, fully adjustable, well made, very sturdy and comfortable. It suits my set-up, and I would buy it again, but the Photobackpacker looks to be a good system also.

Bruce M. Herman

10-Dec-2006, 12:27

Ralph,

Looks not very few folks answered. Here's my two cents worth.

Try before you buy. I have a Dana pack (their largest) and the largest Lowe Pro super trekker.

The Dana is a top loading pack in which I placed two plastic containers. They held my camera and lenses and included internal padding. This was a homemade system that provided a lot of protection for the gear, a very comfortable carrying system because pack fit me well, and lots of extra room for coats, etc when I used it in the winter. The primary and not insignificant drawback to the system was that it was slow. I had to remove the pack from my back, take out the containers and then set up. Moving from one spot to another meant putting the containers back in the pack, even if I left the camera and original lens on the tripod.

So I moved to a Lowe Pro Super Trekker. It holds all of my camera gear and allows a much more rapid setup. All you have to do is take it off and unzip the pack. The drawbacks are that it is not nearly as comfortable and it doesn't have a lot of room for bulky clothing. In the winter I carry a down parka that I carry while hiking and then wear while photographing. It's a tight fit.

As I'm sure you're well aware, the pack that fits my mishappen body properly may not fit yours. That's why I suggest trying it on before you buy.

Best of luck!

David Karp

10-Dec-2006, 13:25

I use a Kelty Redwing 3100 (I think thats the size). It has a good hip suspension and shoulder strap system. It is an internal frame pack with a front loading zipper.

It can carry a 4x5 Walker Titan SF, lots of lenses (75, 90, 125, 150, 210, 300, 450 - 2 each in plastic index card boxes padded with foam - except for the 75), meter, filters, dark cloth, ten 2-sided film holders, loupe, emergency kit with a wrench, screwdriver, etc., and all my misc. paraphenelia. The lenses fit in their boxes in the bottom of the bag, the camera and other items rest on top. The pack has two side pockets with X-country ski holders. I stick one of the tripod legs through the holder on one side, and put a water bottle in the side pocket on the other side - so it allows me to hike hands-free. There is another outside pocket on the back that holds pens, notepads, a mini-maglight, an extra crummy loupe, a dental mirror, and that sort of junk.

This pack has also carried around a Calumet 45NX, a Crown Graphic, and a Cambo 45SF in the field and worked well.

Another option might be an external frame pack. I have heard that some photographers have used an ALICE military pack with success.

Every time I check out a dedicated photo backpack, the Redwing comes out on top for me.

Louie Powell

10-Dec-2006, 13:30

I use a Lowe Pro Nature Trekker. My equipment includes a Zone VI Lightweight, two lenses, half a dozen holders, a CD case for Cokin filters, an Adorama digital spotmeter (same as the old Soligor), and a Tiltall tripod. Whole kit weighs in at about 27 pounds - not light, but schlepping it around for a few hours is overly tiring.

Colin Graham

10-Dec-2006, 13:49

What David said. With tripod, my Redwing tops out at forty-two pounds, but it feels like half that.

Capocheny

10-Dec-2006, 13:54

Ralph,

I carry a Dorff 8x10 with 4 lenses, meter, loupe, and holders in a LowePro Super Trekker AWII backpack. The pack is very well padded and will hold a fair amount of gear if packed properly. I also carry a Gnass lens case inside the pack.

However, suffice to say that the pack is NOT light... I've found that if you want a lot of padding in the bag, there's no way of getting around the extra weight.

That said, I'm now in the market looking for another bag for my 5x7 kit. The finalists list included either a LowePro Pro Trekker AW II or a Lightgear system from Photobackpacker.

I emailed Bruce at Photobackpacker with a listing of my kit. Inside of a day, Bruce sent back a package configuration designed for all the equipment I have. Can't beat that level of service!

Lastly, he'll also ask you for a neck to waist measurement in order to properly select the correct backpack for your body. As some of you people realize... the correct fit of pack to body will lessen the fatigue and back problems that can potentially occur with an incorrect fit.

Here is their website:

http://www.photobackpacker.com/home.asp

I'm still in the process of deciding but I'm definitely leaning towards the Photobackpacker system. :)

Cheers

Ralph Upchurch

10-Dec-2006, 13:58

Scott Rosenberg

10-Dec-2006, 14:00

ralph,

it's been my experience that while the photo backpacks are a bit faster to use, they are heavy and have terrible suspension. i have lots of packs - dana designs, arc-teryx, osprey, and a lowepro super trekker. the osprey and super trekkers are panel loaders; the arc-teryx and dana bags are all top loaders. i don't find the top loading bags to be too problematic. certainly i'd rather have a bag that carries weight well and takes a few more seconds to work out of than one that is terribly uncomfortable to hike with.

my preference fit-wise is dana designs. you can specify the size of the pack and the belt seperatly, making for a really great fit. arc teryx packs are incredibly well made - they feel like you can drag them behind you truck on a gravel road for miles without damaging it! my dana bags just seems to fit my body a little better.

when traveling by air, i check my camera, tripod, and accessories, but carry my lenses and film in a small day pack.

go to a good outfitter in your area with your camera gear and load up a few packs... you'll quickly see how they all carry and feel a little differently.

henry, i have the photobackpacker case designed for the linhof tech line and it is great. plus, bruce is simply wonderful to deal with.

Doug Dolde

10-Dec-2006, 14:05

I like my Lightware BP1420. The harness is good enough for minor hiking...but not long distance treks. It's very roomy...but like most could always be bigger.

Ralph Upchurch

10-Dec-2006, 14:07

Does anyone have experience using the Photobackpacker system in a pack other than the Kelty? Seems like I might want to find the ideal pack, and then fit it out with the cases and velcro system.

PViapiano

10-Dec-2006, 14:59

I use a Tamrac Cyberpack 6 backpack and I love it. Very comfortable, good weight distribution and not too big.

It carries my Ebony 45s non-folder, 3 lenses, Polaroid 545i, Sekonic 608 meter, 4 film holders (or more), loupe, 77mm filters and step-up rings, and darkcloth t-shirt. The area that is designed to hold a laptop works great for storing quickload-style films and Type 55 nice and flat. Plus I have a lot more room for many other accessories, but I tend to prefer lighter packs, so usually don't like to overload it. I think it tops out at 17 lbs (or 7.7 kg), without the tripod attached.

Canoga Camera's eBay store usually has them for $119 and free shipping.

David Karp

10-Dec-2006, 15:20

Do you folks feel comfortable checking a backpack containing your kit when traveling by air? I generally carry-on my smaller daypack which has my medium format gear, but prefer to check a full-sized backpack.

Ralph

No. I just don't think any backpack provides enough protection.

I cannot bring myself to check my camera. If I am going to fly, I have a soda pop cooler pack made by California Innovations. It carries a camera, darkcloth, film holders, loupe, meter, misc. accessories like cable releases, etc. I carry that on. Here is what it looks like: http://www.largeformatphotography.info/forum/showthread.php?t=17981&highlight=California+Innovations

I find another way to carry boxes of film - Usually, my wife's purse. The other stuff, including the tripod, gets packed in a big Kirkland rollon suitcase and is checked. We either carry on the mostly empty backpack, or it goes in the big Kirkland case.

Maris Rusis

10-Dec-2006, 16:30

There has to be contrarian in every crowd. I've gone the other way. After three custom-compartmented backpacks for 4x5 gear I have reverted to a shoulder bag; the Lowe-Pro Commercial AW. I bought the Lowe-Pro for a Mamiya RB 67 outfit but soon realised that my Tachihara 4x5 equipment set is lighter!

The shoulder bag is more convenient as I do not have to put in on the ground (swamps, dunes, ant nests, ..) to work out of it. In subtropical Australia a backpack means a shirt wet with sweat. A shoulder bag is cool and breezy in comparison.

As for induced spinal curvature I just swap shoulders every so often.

riooso

10-Dec-2006, 16:56

I have a Lowepro Mini-Trekker AW. It is the largest bag that is airline legal. It fits under the seat in front of you without the tripod. Assuming you are in the US, you will be searched because of the stuff in the pack, get over it, I wish my wife would. I would not ever check my baby in. I have hiked short distances with it (5 miles or less). I am only 5' 8" tall and the pack sits on the top of my butt, which is good. I carry a 4X5 Toyo AX with two lenses, meter, glasses, 10 film holders, dark cloth, filters, loupe, compass, timer, lens tool, micro screwdriver set, journal, pencil, and cable releases and strap a Berlebach 2042 to it with water. Without the tri-pod it weighs 18.2 pounds. I am going to get a bigger pack for long distance hiking but this bag is a good compromise. Hope this helps. I like the looks of the Kelty setup offered by photobackpacker.com but I wanted something that could go on the airplanel and was not sure of the sizes. I went to a local store and put my hands on one and bought it there.

Later,
Rio Oso

Jeffrey Sipress

10-Dec-2006, 16:59

These kind of threads appear on forums regularly. They turn into popularity contests. But really, like the 'best' tripod threads, they will get you nowhere. These decisions are very particular to the individual. Ther are SO many variables in your needs, equipment, style, hiking abilities, pouch, material, and zipper preferrences, that what one person recommends will likely never work for you. Like most of us here (I assume), you will need to go to a store and handle many bags, envisioning your contents within. Then you will change your mind. A few weeks after the purchase you will acquire another lens and the whole bag layout will be no good. Eventually you will have owned 15 bags and maybe feel close to finding the 'ideal bag' (or tripod). I've been doing this for 15 years. Just bought a new bag yesterday. I'm not sure it will work for me yet.

Graeme Hird

10-Dec-2006, 19:08

I made my own padding so that I can use a comfortable pack designed for hauling gear - rather than impressing others .... :)

Here's the link to how I did it: http://www.scenebyhird.com/BackPack/index.html

Cheers,
Graeme

David_Senesac

10-Dec-2006, 19:38

I'm one that thinks dedicated photography backpacks tend to waste too much extra weight in needless padding while not having enough extra space for non-photo items. And when then provide extra space they are invariably overly heavy. However for short dayhikes from road areas, modest sized dedicated photo backpacks certainly work. My equipment page:

http://www.davidsenesac.com/Backpacking/david_backpacking.html

Gordon Moat

10-Dec-2006, 20:08

Do you folks feel comfortable checking a backpack containing your kit when traveling by air? I generally carry-on my smaller daypack which has my medium format gear, but prefer to check a full-sized backpack.

Ralph

I got a LowePro CompuTrekker AW earlier this year mostly for airline usage. When I got it, there was that trouble in the UK, and some thoughts that the size allowed as carry-on might be reduced. So in a way this backpack is undersized, though it should be future proof to smaller (potentially) future regulation changes.

The reason I chose the CompuTrekker over similar sized LowePro backpacks is that I can use the computer slot for Quickload/Readyload films, with room for a little more. Since I got this backpack, I have added a Trekker DayPack, and a Slip-Lock 60AW to the pack. Both those additions bring the pack to near airline maximum dimensions for carry-on. The modular approach suites my need for variable items I might want to carry.

Obviously, everyone has slightly different gear, different film holder systems, and different needs. LowePro even make a very square airline pack, and similar items are available from Port-a-brace, Kata, ThinkTank, Petrol, and several other camera and video gear bag companies. The downside I found with nearly every square case I tried was that they were just not very comfortable on my back; which is another factor to decide.

When travelling by airlines, you should read the disclaimer about liability. With Continental, and most other US based carriers I checked into, they exempt themselves from any claims against photographic equipment (amongst other things). Read very carefully about the dollar limit of claims, and about anything the airline might consider exempt from claims, before you travel by airline.

Ciao!

Gordon Moat
A G Studio (http://www.allgstudio.com)

Photobackpacker

10-Dec-2006, 21:05

Does anyone have experience using the Photobackpacker system in a pack other than the Kelty? Seems like I might want to find the ideal pack, and then fit it out with the cases and velcro system.

I hope it is okay to respond directly. I have LightGear systems in use with nearly every brand of pack. I make backerboards so you can use the cases with top loading and panel loaders. If I don't have a good fit for your pack, I will make one that does.

I have just become a dealer for Granite Gear backpacks. They manufacture a high-end backpack which retails for $250. Their suspension sytem is among the best on the market. So far the response to this pack with the Lightgear system has been excellent.

Happy Holidays to all.

Good Light!!!

Bruce

http://www.photobackpacker.com

Frank Petronio

11-Dec-2006, 04:41

I found a Pelican 1510 hardcase with rollers that is sized for US Airlines Carry-on regulations. Of course it is a bitch in the backcountry (wheels are too small, they get gobbed up with mud) but you can put all your fragile stuff in there -- with wraps and pads -- and repack into a backpack on location. The advantage is that should the airline decide that your "legal" carry-on is still too large (especially on smaller planes) at least the Pelican can be securely checked at the gate (where they tend not to man-handle it as bad as general luggage) and your gear will survive.

Matus Kalisky

12-Dec-2006, 02:42

naturephoto1

12-Dec-2006, 06:53

Hi Matus,

Kinesis Gear makes some very good equipment. However, I have not had the opportunity to use their Backpacks.

I had a custom made pack for backpacking and carrying my camera equipment by McHale Packs. This is a Panel Loading Pack. They are custom made for size, materials, color, your proportions, etc. Unfortunately MacHale only makes about 200 packs a year, requires sizing, takes a bit of time, they will not ship outside of the US and Canada, and they are very costly.

My McHale Pack is made of a combination of 420 High Tenacity Nylon and Full Spectra fabric. The Pack has a 5000 Cubic Inch Main Compartment and I had an extra Pocket added on the side for carrying a 42 oz Nalgene Water Cantene. The Tripod in a case straps to the side of the pack and into one of the water holders. The pack weight is about 5.5 pounds and has the McHale Critical Mass Harness suspension system and the Bypass Shoulder Harness. These are some of the most comfortable suspension systems and harnesses available. They allow carrying weights of 60+ pounds comfortably.

Here is the link to the pack:

http://www.mchalepacks.com/packs/detail/CMSARC.htm

The pack is similar to mine, but mine has the extra pocket, and is all in gray with Full Spectra fabric shoulder harness and Pack bottom (which runs about 8 inches up the side), with black trim and webbing as well as the waist harness.

Rich

Ralph Upchurch

12-Dec-2006, 06:58

I think carrying the tripod off the back side of the pack is about the worst way to carry one. One of the basic concepts of a good backpack is keeping the weight as close to your body as possible. The tripod is the heaviest piece of equiptment I carry, and the last thing I want is to have it 12 inches off my back. I have generally carried it vertically, inside the main compartment of my pack. the next best thing is strapped to the outside, top being the best as long as it does not interfere with getting into the pack. I have also carried it strapped to the side, but this is somewhat unbalanced.

Ralph

naturephoto1

12-Dec-2006, 07:05

Hi Ralph,

The tripod is carried vertically and the weight on my McHale pack (about 5 + pounds for tripod, head and case) is largely offset by carrying the 42 oz of water on the other side of the pack as well as the 32 oz water bottle at the bottom of the pack in water bottle holder to keep the weight balanced. I could strap the tripod behind, but this will interfere with the rear pocket and the possiblility of anything strapped to the rear of the pack.

Rich

Ron Marshall

12-Dec-2006, 07:11

Wel, I am also on my way looking for a bckapck that would hold rather light 4x5 gear (Tachihara, 2 - 3 lenses, 10 filmholder, small stuff, Tripod with size of Gitzo G1227). Led me add a couple of questions:

1) I got interested in the backapck from the www.kgear.com called Journeyman P450. Are there any users of this backpack around?

2) How convenient do you find (on ANY backpack) when the tripod is attached not on the side of the backapck, but in the middle ob the rear part of the backpack.

3) COncerning the Kelty backpacks - how do you attach the tripod? (not too many pics on the website)

4) If you have to check-in your gear- whatever way you pack it - do you have it insured separately (how, where)? I do not have experience on this, but the travel company will be probably not willing to pay a coupe of thousands for it once it gets lost.

Matus

I have the Kelty Coyote, which is a bit bigger than some of the other models, 4750 cubic inches. There is a daisy chain up the center to which a couple of bungie cords could be easily attached to hold the tripod, but I have a Gitzo 2770 with a 1 lb head, so I just carry it in my hand.

I have attached a tripod to the center and the sides. If on the side the load must be balanced. If in the center it must be cinched down tight so it doesn't rock from side to side as you walk.

Make sure you try on several packs loaded with your equipment to assure that you get a good fit.

Matus Kalisky

12-Dec-2006, 08:08

- naturephoto1 -

thanks for the link. McHale backpacks look interesting, but are definitely out of my price range.

- drralph -

I ageree with you concerning the back-mounted tripod. But I can hardly imagine to put my tripod (75cm with ballhead) horizontally. To put it inside the backpack - it's too long for it. I am looking for middle sized backpack. To Carry the tripod on the side causes easily bad ballance - especially as the bottel with water is getting empty during the trip.

..If I would have time for it (as I do not have - I am supposed to finish my PhD in half a year) I would consider to make one myself out of older backpacks hanging around... :(

- Ron Marshall -

I am in rather unlucky position - I am located in Germany and none of the packs I am aware of (dedicated photo backpacks or normal ones) does fullfill my idea about a photo backpack. But buying blindly overrr the webpage is dangerous, I know.

thanks

M..

Gordon Moat

12-Dec-2006, 11:20

Hello Matus,

On my LowePro there is a fold out tripod holder, and two different position cords to secure the tripod. I didn't know how to properly use it at first, so I hd the tripod with the 3047 head pointed upwards. That caused it to rock and move around as I walked. Then I tried it upside down, with the 3047 head in the holder on the bag, and suddenly it was stable. This positions it in the middle back of the bag.

I agree with you on the side mount, since there is often room for other things you want to place there. With the LowePro system, there are many Slip Lock bags and carriers that fit onto most of their backpacks. I have a few of those currently.

The other thing I do in an urban environment, or when going to a more local paid shoot, is carry the tripod on a strap made for it. I can then carry it like a bag, or sling it across my should, or even across the front of my body. While this is not as easy as attaching it to the bag, carrying the tripod separately makes moving around in crowded situations much easier.

If you want to go into the wilderness, and carry many non-photographic items, then get a pack that has some sort of external frame. You can always get a photo backpack too, and put that into a larger wilderness backpack, though it might be a bit more weight than necessary.

With airlines, you can get a separate insurance policy, though it is something that usually only professionals will get. The problem is that premiums are annual, so I don't know of any you can get on a per-trip basis; this is not like travel insurance. My advise is not to check gear that is expensive or could be broken. I pack my tripod into my checked luggage, though I partially disassemble it by removing the handles from the head, and pulling the centre column out of the legs.

If you find you have more gear you want to carry than you can have in carry-on luggage, then consider using a separate shipping company. You might find that FedEx, DHL, or some other carrier would be a better solution than checking expensive items. This is also one way you can insure gear on a per-flight basis.

Ciao!

Gordon Moat
A G Studio (http://www.allgstudio.com)

Jack Brauer

12-Dec-2006, 11:54

Well I confess to not reading all the above posts, but here's my 2¢ if you're interested in camping-style backpacking.

I have all my camera gear (except tripod) nicely organized in a LowePro OmniPro soft case. It's one of those rectangular cases with all the little dividers inside. I carry that inside of a real backpacking pack. This one in particular is my dream pack: http://www.mchalepacks.com/packs/detail/CMSARC.htm

Photo Dave

12-Dec-2006, 12:46

I'm with Jack... I haven't read All the other posts but... I use a Kelty RedWing backpack. I chose this model after visiting Many stores with tripod in hand and this was the easiest to cary a tripod. I slip one leg under the side pocket and it rests in the mesh pocket below. Two straps wrap around the tripod to hold it Very securely. The camera gear just dumps in the main compartment of the pack in it's camera bag... It's quick and easy... I'm out the door in 3 minutes! The pack just happens to have other feature I like, a great removable hip belt and a drink system slot. I avoided the "photo backpacks" because there wasn't room for hiking necessities like... food, water and extra clothing.
Dave

naturephoto1

12-Dec-2006, 13:28

Hi Jack,

If you read my post above, #23, I have a modified version of the McHale Pack you list. It is made of 420 High Tenacity Nylon and Full Spectra fabric. See my post.

Rich

roteague

12-Dec-2006, 14:00

I found a Pelican 1510 hardcase with rollers that is sized for US Airlines Carry-on regulations.

Keep in mind that current EU regulations only allow for much smaller carry on luggage than the US allows. I woudn't be surprised, if one day our allowances are change to match that of the EU. Australia is already taking about implementing some of the EU standards for international flights, and John Howard (PM) has talked about doing it for domestic flights as well. It is coming..... air travel is going to get much more difficult for photographers.

naturephoto1

12-Dec-2006, 14:13

If you are looking for soft sided carry on camera backpacks consider the Think Tank Camera Bag backpacks and roller. They are a relatively new company. Their President, founder and chief designer designed many (some) of the Lowe Pro bags. I had a chance to see some of their bags at Photo Plus and I own their Bazooka Tripod Bag (presently the only telescoping tripod bag from 15-30"). This is some very well designed, heavily padded, and well made equipment.

Below is the link to their Product page:

http://www.thinktankphoto.com/ttp_products.html

Rich

jackies

12-Dec-2006, 16:22

I fly out of town in small regional jets. I refuse to check my camera gear and have found the MP-1 WRP camera pack to fit into the smallest of overhead compartments. It has done me well over several years. It has taken my 4x5 with 3 lenses; a pro digital plus 3-4 lenses and I can still carry it on my back. I think it is a great option.

http://www.moosepeterson.com/gear/index.html

If I find that I will be doing alot of hiking at my destination then I pack a better backpack ( more padding etc) in the checked luggage and fill it with clothes etc.

Jackie

Forrest Atkins

12-Dec-2006, 18:37

In response to the Kinesis packpack quiry...it's my current favorite. I've purchase the new Kinesis camera bag that attached inside. The camera bag holds my Tehnika, two lens, spot meter and loupe. My film holders (7 per) ride in two California Innovation lunch bags. There's a mesh pouch on the inside back of the pack that holds my Camelback water bladder. The tripod rides in a side pocket in which I've placed the tripod pouch from my Lowe Pro pack. Theres room inside the pack for my dark cloth, snacks and a light weight jacket. So far, I've taken it on several all day shoot involving some climbing/scrambling with no problems. As mentioned, the list is exhaustive so try before you buy.

riooso

12-Dec-2006, 22:18

I did not want to start another thread and this is related. What do you guys use if you want to backpack in about 15 miles over the course of about 3 or 4 days and take say a Toyo AX and gear weighing in at about 24 pounds? I am really new to the large format stuff but would really like to pack it in. I got some images in Hawaii that I could have gotten if on the beaten route. I used LowePro backpack but realize that anything more than a day hike takes a drastically different approach. I just need a direction to start heading for next spring.

Thanks,
Richard Adams

Matus Kalisky

13-Dec-2006, 02:20

Now this is getting interesting...

- Gordon Moat -

well, my ionterest in carrying the gear in the airplain is rather academical - I was flying once up to now :-) But the more strong (& supid) the regulations will come - the more grows my antipathy to travel smewhere with airlines. But thanks for you advices.

- Jack -

I was also considering OmniPro, but I am now not sure that if I add the weight of the OmniPro + the backpack that I will end up with reasonable weight. Also I do not like the idea that I have to take the OmniPro out of the backpack first before I will be able to access the gear (My trcking backpack is a toploader).

- roteague -

As I mention already - I fly nex to none and as I am not forced to - I can "afford" to be hesitant to use arilines if so strong (& ... you know ...let's do not discuss it here) rules are in use.

- jackies -

the moose products looks good but are rather expensive...

- Forrest Atkins -

Do you have in mind the V092 module? (http://www.kgear.com/p/V092.html)
This looks very interesting. Would it be possible for you to send me(or to post it here) an image with the gear you fit in? That would be a great help!
Do you also use the Kinesis backpack (P450 - Journeyman?) - I am quite interested on this item. Please post more of your comments on this if possible.

thaks to all of you. You are a great help.

M..

jackies

13-Dec-2006, 06:21

Good luck in your choice. There are different packs for different needs. You may need more than one.

If you fly and go on small regional jets the MP-1 can't be beat. It fits into the smallest overhead compartment. It is only 7" high. Nothing else can fit in there. Expensive, yes. But less than replacing broken, stolen or lost equipment.

Jackie

Ralph Upchurch

13-Dec-2006, 10:18

One of the most interesting and valuable tips I have gotten by reading this thread has been an introduction to the Kinesis products. This looks like a really great line. I plan to try the belt system to hold my Mamiya 7 outfit for street and travel photography. I had come up with a patchwork system of my own design with similar function, but their wide range of modules looks much better. I just wish there was a small backpack that worked with the suspender system to hold film, jacket, odds and ends. The holster cases don't seem to offer that versatility.

Ralph

Rakesh Malik

13-Dec-2006, 11:16

Wel, I am also on my way looking for a bckapck that would hold rather light 4x5 gear (Tachihara, 2 - 3 lenses, 10 filmholder, small stuff, Tripod with size of Gitzo G1227). Led me add a couple of questions:

1) I got interested in the backapck from the www.kgear.com called Journeyman P450. Are there any users of this backpack around?

I use one.

2) How convenient do you find (on ANY backpack) when the tripod is attached not on the side of the backapck, but in the middle ob the rear part of the backpack.

I like it that way, it balances the tripod nicely, and with the way they do it on the KGear pack, it's low enough to not get caught on low-hanging branches while hiking or something :)

4) If you have to check-in your gear- whatever way you pack it - do you have it insured separately (how, where)? I do not have experience on this, but the travel company will be probably not willing to pay a coupe of thousands for it once it gets lost.

I haven't tried doing this yet, which is one reason I started reading this thread. :)

Forrest Atkins

13-Dec-2006, 18:02

Look's like a couple of Kgear users. To Matus, yes I'm using the Journeyman p450 pack with the V092 module. Here are a few images. Haven't decided whether to keep camera bag in current position allowing easier access or lower it for better balance.

Matus Kalisky

14-Dec-2006, 01:55

- Rakesh Malik -

May I ask how do you organize the gear inside the back? (cases, dividers...). How comfortable do you fing the waist belt (which one do you actually use)?

And one more question about the mesh pockets - I have experinece that it is the first thing on the backpack to be broken - do they hold up?

- Forrest Atkins -

thanks a lot. I am just wondering - the V092 is supposed to have the depth of (only) 17 cm - is the Linhof so small, or is it 6x9 and not 4x5 ? Or - do you think that Tachihara (~ 21 x 21 x 10 cm folded) would fit inside without being placed horizontally? That would spare a lot of space and I could also fit some lenses inside (the way you do it).

Is there a way to fix the V092 inside the top part of the backpack without letting it sliding down?

The same questions as above:
- about the waist belt - is it comfortable?
- are the mesh pockets strong an resistent (you keep the tripod partially in them)

Rakesh Malik

14-Dec-2006, 06:41

- Rakesh Malik -
May I ask how do you organize the gear inside the back? (cases, dividers...). How comfortable do you fing the waist belt (which one do you actually use)?

Certainly you may. :)

I'll try to remember to photograph it for you tomorrow (I have a class on composition for landscape photography tonight :)) evening, but in the meantime I'll describe it.

I use the same v92 case in mine; it affixes to the top of the bag, quite securely. My Ebony SV45U fits in there comfortably, with room to spare for my lightmeter, loupe, and lens shade clip in the side "compartment" (the v92 comes with dividers). I use one of the dividers on top of the camera to secure it in the case, and provide additional padding.

Though I plan to alter the next part a bit by getting some of the Gnass bags for carrying film and film holders, I presently keep my film holders (two Quickloads) in their shipping boxes along with my folded-up darkcloth and a box of film in the lower part of the bag, and at the bottom below all that is a Gnass 3-lens pouch.

I do use their belt, and once I figured out how it attached to the pack, it worked fine. It's very comfortable, and I also keep a few pouches on it; one for water, and one for extra stuff, like lunch and a Nikkor T*ED 720mm lens + 500mm rear element, which I plan to move inside the pack in another Gnass lens wallet when I re-organize things.

And one more question about the mesh pockets - I have experinece that it is the first thing on the backpack to be broken - do they hold up?

So far yes, though I've only been keeping a raincover and some bottles of water in mine. My tripod sits in the KGear tripod pouch attached on the back of the bag. I've been pretty satisfied with this arrangement.

thanks a lot. I am just wondering - the V092 is supposed to have the depth of (only) 17 cm - is the Linhof so small, or is it 6x9 and not 4x5 ? Or - do you think that Tachihara (~ 21 x 21 x 10 cm folded) would fit inside without being placed horizontally? That would spare a lot of space and I could also fit some lenses inside (the way you do it).

That sounds pretty close to the dimentions of my Ebony, so I'll give it a try and see how well it fits, and let you know. If it does fit, it might make my re-org a little easier, since it would let me stuff a few more things in there with the camera.

Is there a way to fix the V092 inside the top part of the backpack without letting it sliding down?

I know I mentioned this above, but just as an FYI, it's specifically designed to work that way. There's velcro along the back of the pack and the v092 to keep it from jostling around, and there's a pair of clips that you can attach the v092 to in the pack, so it stays secure.

Hopefully I'm not stepping on Forest's toes by replying to this part :)

Ralph Upchurch

17-Dec-2006, 06:03

I want to thank everyone who has contributed to this thread for all the great ideas and tips!

I have decided to get the Kinesis system, mainly for it's versitility. I can configure the modules to carry my medium format gear, which is my main travel camera, and still use it for large format. I think it will actually carry both at the same time, as an airplane carry-on. I plan to get a digital system next sping, when Canon comes out with their new line of top end gear, and the same system will work for that as well.

Ralph

Matus Kalisky

18-Dec-2006, 03:20

- Rakesh Malik -

thanks a lot for your detailled reply. Once you will check it out about the V092 - let me know - I am really interested.

- Raph -

Once you have it all at home - please - let me know your opinion about it.

- Forrest Atkins -

Would you let me know what tripod is shown attached to backpack in the first photo - it would help me to get an idea about the size.

Matus

Rakesh Malik

18-Dec-2006, 13:59

- Rakesh Malik -

thanks a lot for your detailled reply. Once you will check it out about the V092 - let me know - I am really interested.

No problem.

I tried it yesterday, my Ebony won't fit sideways, so I have to lay it flat in the v092. Hence it takes up most of the case, but it does leave room for the loupe and lightmeter in a secondary "compartment" and I can probably leave the darkcloth on top of it.

Sorry I didn't get to post some photos, it was a busier than expected weekend :) I'll still put some up if you want, though.

Forrest Atkins

18-Dec-2006, 17:57

Matus, the tripod is a Gitzo CF 3 series. Not sure how long the bag will hold up carrying tripod in this position but works for now. For all interested, suggest you review the Kgear website carefully. The bag is not meant to compete (in terms of load carrying ability/capacity), with larger Low Pro Supper Trekker.

Matus Kalisky

19-Dec-2006, 03:06

- Forest -

thanks. I do realise that one should not compare heavy Lowepro dedicated photobackapcks to Kgear one. I do not. I am looking for a backpack for one day trips that is comfortable to use and will carry the gear I need comfortably with reasobanle access and doest not weight a ton. I like the idea that one can fix the position of a smaller bag or case inside the backpack what makes the things more organized. I already have a camera case from the photobackpacker which could be a good match.

- Rakesh -

thank you. Do not worry about the photos so much if you are busy.

Actualluy I would have a different question. To make it more clear for me how much space is in the backpack - could you let me know how much space is left if you attach the V092 to upper part of the backpack - what is the size of the rectagular space left bellow it (the depth of it is clearly the depth of the backpack itself)? thanks

MAtus

Rakesh Malik

19-Dec-2006, 07:37

- Forest -
- Rakesh -
thank you. Do not worry about the photos so much if you are busy.

I was going to apologize for not putting one up last night, too :)

I'm going to have to stop doing my Christmas shopping at Borders ;)

Actualluy I would have a different question. To make it more clear for me how much space is in the backpack - could you let me know how much space is left if you attach the V092 to upper part of the backpack - what is the size of the rectagular
space left bellow it (the depth of it is clearly the depth of the backpack itself)? thanks

MAtus

I'd estimate that the v092 is about 1/3 of the pack's volume. Below the v092, I have a stack consisting of a Gnasss 3-lens wallet (which fits the width of the pack almost exactly), 2 Quickload holders in their original boxes (bulky, but it will suffice until I get a couple of the Gnass film/holder pouches), a box of film, and my folded-up darkcloth. I keep some extra stuff in pouches attached to the belt, and the tripod travels in KGear's tripod pouch, ball head down, on the back of the pack. I've found this to be a very comfortable way to carry the 'pod, especially since the ball head is usually the heaviest part of the whole thing. It also leaves the mesh pouches free for things like extra bottles of water and my rain cover. :)

walter23

19-Dec-2006, 09:01

I use a Lowepro phototrekker AW (II maybe?). Great bag, comes with a rain cover / ground sheet that comes in handy for keeping the bag clean.

It's funny; I bought it for $300 canadian (it's much cheaper in the US) for my 35mm / digital SLR stuff, and absolutely hated it. It was too big and kludgey for the style of shooting I did with the digital SLR - took too much time to set it down, unzip it, remove things, etc. Too heavy for the small amount of gear I needed to carry. I tried to sell it on several different forums / classifieds sites, with no luck.

Then I recently got started with large format and realized it was absolutely perfect for that use and I was so glad that I had it. It's really a great backpack for this. Right now I carry a shen hao 4x5, two film holders and a polaroid holder (I anticipate being able to carry 7 film holders once my other ones arrive in the mail), a 90mm grandagon and 210 sironar in lens wraps, a 35mm SLR + lens for metering, my doubled-T-shirt dark cloth, focusing loupe, and room to spare. I use the accessory backpack that comes with it, latched to the back, for carrying the dark cloth and film (e.g. polaroids, or sheet film for a trip). Could throw food / water in the accessory pack, too. It's got a tripod holder strapped to it, though I find it hard to balance with a heavy tripod and prefer to carry my tripod separate.

It's got a padded waist strap that carries most of the load (like a frame-style backpack).

Ralph Upchurch

7-Jan-2007, 09:17

My new Kinesis system just arrived, and have had a chance to play with it a bit, and thought I would report back.

The build quality is excellent, and I really like the feel of the materials. The belt system is just what I hoped it would be, and will provide a compact and highly functional way to carry my Mamiya 7 body and four lenses, and have all within reach while walking around.

The lens cases are larger than they need to be for my purposes, even though I bought the "small" size. I plan to write Kinesis to suggest an even smaller lens case.

The Journeyman pack is just the right size, and very comfortable as well. I may get a second belt, as swapping the belt between my Mamiya setup and the Journeyman, which I plan to use for my LF gear, will be a bit of a pain.

I am still in the fitting out stage, and haven't yet taken it out into the field. That will be my fun for next week!

Ralph