The LowePro PhotoSport series is among the brand names best offering bags, and the brand-new, third incarnation of the knapsack seeks to build on the success of previous variations. Within the series, the bags themselves fit into rather distinct categories– from larger trekking and camping bags to smaller treking daypacks and models. It is the smaller versions that well be concentrating on in this review, evaluating out the 24L version of the PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack. There is also a 15L variation of the same bag for more casual wear.SpecificationsWeight: 3.3 lbsInternal dimensions: 26x13x48cm External measurements: 27x22x50cmCamera insert dimensions: 18x10x23cmLaptop compartment dimensions: 13″ device or 3L Hydration PouchNumber of lenses that can be saved: 2Compatibility: Standard zoom lens, mirrorless cams, 1-2 extra lenses, accessories and personal products, plus mid-size tripodWhile we rank this as one of the very best electronic camera backpacks overall, its worth bearing in mind that purchasing among these bags is rather a personal decision, as theres a substantial variety of designs out there to suit different shapes, sizes, cams and photography pursuits. We would suggest attempting a few out in a shop prior to making a purchase.If youre choosing up a bag for astrophotography camping, this might be a great alternative since its relatively light-weight. That said, if youre attempting to take all of your finest astrophotography lenses with you, then this may be frustratingly small, as it only has capability for 2 units. As we mentioned above, think carefully about what you need from a cam bag before dedicating to a purchase.Design(Image credit: LowePro)Rugged products offer a good impression of cords and qualityzippers operate efficiently and are well thought-outWe liked the drawstring function at the top of the bagFirst impressions when it concerns the style of the PhotoSport 24L is that its rather a bit smaller sized than it looks in images. Despite having 24L of useful bring area, it actually feels fairly small, and its empty weight is reassuringly little. As far as light-weight bags go, this feels impressive, and to its credit it likewise features 75% recycled products. It doesnt feel, nevertheless, that LowePro have actually skimped on the quality of materials– they appear long lasting, sturdy and hard, with great little functions such as a softer lining on the top zipper pocket to keep phone screens scratch-free. Theres one side pocket (the other side supplies access to the side compartment – more on that later), and a front pocket thats also neatly removable should you want to put bigger items in it. Two velcro loops at the front likewise supply the capability to secure accessories. A concealed velcro pouch on the front of the bag stores a protective rain cover, however in our tests we found that the bag was nicely weatherproof in its own right, which was unexpected however welcome. We felt that our finest cams, when saved in the bag, were definitely in safe hands.Theres 2 designs– we choose the rather more soft black and grey variation – but theres likewise a black and blue version that sticks out a little more.Features(Image credit: LowePro)Clever removable cam insert adds versatilityLaptop/tablet pouch to the back can also host a water pouch for hikingWith the cam insert eliminated, a Velcro flap opens the whole bag for top-loading When it comes to functionality in the real world, the PhotoSport Outdoor Backpack begins to shine. The very first aspect worth mentioning is the leading flap, which has 2 clips that neatly secure it to the rest of the bag. Theres a drawstring here that compresses anything in it, so this is a great alternative for items such as sweaters or jackets that you need to stuff away. Inside the primary compartment, theres a zippered pouch and two mesh pockets that we discovered useful for storing things like cable televisions, memory cards and lens heating units. We specifically liked the fact that the leading flap links to clips on the side of the bag, which truly helps in keeping things compact and secure.Moving down the bag, the bottom area of the bag, with its side access flap, is the bags main occasion, and the electronic camera insert consisted of here offers a good degree of versatility. Our only criticism is that the insert itself is possibly a little small– its completely sufficient for users of smaller sized setups or mirrorless bodies, but even then theres maybe only area for a couple of smaller lenses. Full frame users might wish to weigh up their choices in this regard.The cam insert at the bottom is gotten rid of by removing it from its Velcro fasteners and attaching the included strap, which can be used around the shoulder, neck or even put on to the camera itself. For smaller sized trips this works, nevertheless we discovered that the bag itself is so lightweight that we didnt actually remove the insert that often. Its excellent to have the choice. With the insert got rid of, a bottom flap which acts as the base of the primary compartment can open up to allow access to all 24L of storage space. We discovered that this made it a very usable bag for travelling and weekend journeys away.Another great function is the expandable front pocket, which can reach fit larger products such as coats and coats, keeping them far from the main compartment spaces. Performance(Image credit: LowePro)Comfortable to wear for long periodsGood adjustability on all strapsWaist pocket could do with being a bit biggerIn regards to performance, we discovered it simple to make full use of all the functions of the bag and it served us well on the walkings and journeys we took it on. The straps look at first look like they should be a bit wider, we found them comfy and both the waist and upper body securing straps can be adjusted to fit. We would have liked to have actually seen a somewhat larger waist strap, in order to accommodate a bigger pocket, but for the size of the bag its more than adequate.The lack of weight in the bag is to its credit here – its really comfortable to wear when walking and after a while its simple to forget how much the bag itself is accommodating. When the rain comes, the waterproof cover is easy to get out and connect. With the electronic camera insert out, we also liked the fact that this component can connect to the waist and shoulder straps, keeping it protected to the bag but sat so that equipment is within simple reach. Its worth pointing out however that we did discover this aspect a little fiddly to get right.When taking the bag for longer journeys we liked the back laptop/tablet pouch, and found it didnt affect the wearing of the bag too much. What we actually liked nevertheless was that in-lieu of a laptop, this area also works as a 3L hydration pouch (not consisted of) so you can keep routinely topped up with water on longer hikes.Should you buy it?We really delighted in testing the PhotoSport knapsack and believe its a creative and flexible bag for lots of people. We do think, however, that it gravitates towards a lifestyle rucksack more than an out and out video camera bag, and users of larger professional setups might wish to look elsewhere. For the majority of people who are casual or lover professional photographers though, this really does fit the expense, and we d definitely suggest it for weekend use or day walkings which is basically what its designed for. With a somewhat bigger video camera and lens compartment, the bag would remain in contention for a five-star rating.We liked the cam insert, its most useful feature is probably the space it produces within the main body of the bag itself when eliminated. The fabrics feel good quality, and the fasteners and zips work well with no snagging, even when the bag is full. Another minor drawback is that it isnt the cheapest bag on offer, at around the $200 mark, however if youre interested in something that has flexibility in spades and provides a comfy wear when out and about, this comes extremely recommended.If this item isnt for youPro users in need of more area may prefer something like the LowePro Pro Trekker BP 550. Its more expensive, but you can fit approximately 3 cameras in the bag along with 4-6 lenses.For anyone who requires something thats much better matched to metropolitan photography, we d recommend the Peak Design Everyday knapsack. Its a trendy design that would not keep an eye out of place on the commute and its regularly featured in round-ups of the very best electronic camera bags. And if youre operating in harder, dustier environments you may wish to opt for the hardy Vanguard Alta Sky 51D. Created for heavy-duty wear, it has a structured interior that can take up to two DSLR electronic cameras, 3-4 lenses and a handful of other accessories.
There is also a 15L version of the same bag for more casual wear.SpecificationsWeight: 3.3 lbsInternal dimensions: 26x13x48cm External dimensions: 27x22x50cmCamera insert measurements: 18x10x23cmLaptop compartment dimensions: 13″ device or 3L Hydration PouchNumber of lenses that can be kept: 2Compatibility: Standard zoom lens, mirrorless video cameras, 1-2 additional lenses, devices and individual products, plus mid-size tripodWhile we rank this as one of the best electronic camera backpacks in general, its worth remembering that purchasing one of these bags is quite an individual choice, as theres a huge variety of designs out there to match various shapes, sizes, cams and photography pursuits. We especially liked the fact that the top flap connects to clips on the side of the bag, which actually helps in keeping things compact and secure.Moving down the bag, the bottom area of the bag, with its side gain access to flap, is the bags main event, and the camera insert included here offers a great degree of adaptability. We would have liked to have actually seen a somewhat broader waist strap, in order to accommodate a larger pocket, but for the size of the bag its more than adequate.The lack of weight in the bag is to its credit here – its extremely comfortable to use when strolling and after a while its easy to forget how much the bag itself is accommodating. Its worth pointing out however that we did find this element a little fiddly to get right.When taking the bag for longer trips we liked the back laptop/tablet pouch, and found it didnt affect the wearing of the bag too much. With a slightly larger camera and lens compartment, the bag would be in contention for a five-star rating.We liked the video camera insert, its most helpful feature is probably the area it produces within the primary body of the bag itself when removed.