View Full Version : DSLR waterproof camera bag?
dserum06
02-07-2012, 12:38
I want to take my Canon EOS very much but I am unsure about how to carry it in my bag. Plan on putting it in my bag, on top, ziploc, unless there is someway to wear it on my waist. Very concerned with lightweight and waterproof. Anyone have suggestions for me?
Otherwise, are there any suggestions to a different camera? I am a photographer so would like to have something good quality, but only taking the EOS because I don't want to take my best camera since it'll be outdoors for 5 months :)
Thanks!
Lots of options. I like the ultrasil Sea-to Summit dry bags (http://www.seatosummit.com/products/display/7). If you have an REI near you, stop in and head over to the kayak section. They usually have a good variety.
NRS (http://kayak.nrsweb.com/boating/Waterproof%20Camera%20Bags) is another option.
You could order the Ziplock Big Bag Double Zipper bags (http://www.amazon.com/Ziploc-Double-Zipper-Large-5-Count/dp/B003U6A3C6/ref=pd_sbs_indust_2) or the Hefty One Zip 2.5 gallon bags (http://www.walmart.com/ip/Hefty-Onezip-Jumbo-2.5-Gallon-14-3-8-In-X-16-In-Multi-Purpose-Bags-12-ct/11027203) as a back-up.
If you always carry it in your backpack you'll miss most good shots and won't use it enough to bother carrying. There are several shaped camera bags that you can attach to your hipbelt or rig it off your shoulder straps that weigh 8ounces or less. As an example: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/753762-REG/Canon_5169B003_EOS_Rebel_T3i_Digital.html It weighs 8ounces. But if you attach it to your hipbelt with the belt strap and cut off the padded handle and remove the carrying strap, it will lower the weight some. Or you could jury rig it to attach to to your shoulder straps like a chest pack. I'd still carry a gallon ziplock for heavy rain to insure it stays dry though. I'm sure there are other alternatives out there. Visit all the major online camera store websites and look at the specs for their camera bags until you find one you want. Or do a search for chest packs (packs that mount to your shoulder straps and are carried on the front) though they won't be padded so you'll have to figure out a way to pad it yourself if you think its necessary.
Go through BHPhoto
bigcranky
02-07-2012, 13:11
One of these holster bags (http://www.thinktankphoto.com/categories/digital-holsters/digital-holsters.aspx) will work for this purpose. It comes with a rain cover, and you can rig it to your shoulder harness or wear it on your hip belt. Lots of carrying options.
Agree with Miner that if you keep it in your pack, you won't shoot any photos -- that's been my experience anyway.
dserum06
02-07-2012, 14:34
thanks everyone for the quick responses, absolutely right. wouldn't want to keep it in my pack, was hoping there was a better way to do this and to keep my camera safe :)
For many years I carried a SLR. Now I carry my D40 or D5100 - nice, small, light (as SLRs go). I use a small Lowe wedge pack, attached to the D-rings on my ULA P2 pack. This keeps the camera very handy, does not bounce annoyingly, and protects it from dirt and light moisture. I do need to use my hand to move it to the side very occasionally when I need to exactly watch my footing - normally not a problem at all.
In real rain, the camera and wedge pack go into a small garbage bag, then into my pack, inside the liner and a pack cover goes on. Granted photo taking are all but eliminated until break or camp, but I'd rather not risk the camera. Been using this method since the 1980's and have never had a camera suffer any damage. Knock on wood.
I tried a series of small, P&S cameras, the only one I was somewhat satisfied with was my Canon A590 IS. Still needed to tuck it away when really wet out. A real SLR just gives much better results. For real cold, winter conditions, the fully manual Nikon FM2n is still champs. Never quits.
dserum06
02-08-2012, 11:54
where can I find one of these wedge packs?
MissMagnolia
02-08-2012, 12:53
http://www.amazon.com/Clik-Elite-Telephoto-Chest-Pack/dp/B004C546X6
I like some of those previous links and prefer the harnesses to this chestpack. However, this is the one I have. I meant to wear it under my backpack but the straps are rubbing on my neck so that's not going to work. Also, this is a big bag/wedge that is maybe bigger than I needed.
Anyway, I'm working with a friend trying to see about adapting just the wedge to fit onto my backpack straps. The wedge itself is well padded and water resistant, but I'd line the inside and put my camera in a ziploc and put the wedge inside my pack during heavy rain.
Those links were helpful to get ideas, but I'm considering multiple velcro attachments instead of all the clips and rings and things since my camera isn't that heavy.
Opps! Yesterday, I meant to link this 8ounce bag Lowepro Toploader Zoom 45 AW Bag (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/672945-REG/Lowepro_LP36184_0EU_Toploader_Zoom_45_AW.html), which will work with a rebel with a 18-55mm lens. Sorry for linking to the camera instead.
where can I find one of these wedge packs?
This is the one I use. Couple of small caribiners and it's easy on, easy off. They make larger ones if you have a larger camera or longer lens. These are nice because the lid flips away from your body, so less likely to miss when putting the camera in or taking it out. I have on older style of these as well that has two removable lens cases, one on either side of the wedge. I find that unnecessary for backpacking. Has a front pocket and pouch in the lid for spare battery, charger, extra SD cards, Circular Polarizer , etc. Not a lot of room, but some.
Any extra lenses are carried in my backpack.
Guess I should have given the link in the last post.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/672945-REG/Lowepro_LP36184_0EU_Toploader_Zoom_45_AW.html
Megapixel
02-08-2012, 18:56
i carry mine in a dana design wet rib, and keep the body and lenses in different sized loksaks. Never had a problem in all kinds of weather.
dserum06
02-12-2012, 14:21
i carry mine in a dana design wet rib, and keep the body and lenses in different sized loksaks. Never had a problem in all kinds of weather.
Wish I could find one of these!!!!
Last year I did the first 200 miles of the AT, starting at Springer, with my full-size DSLR. After a little soul-searching, though, I'm going to leave it home this year. Instead, I've learned that Nikon now makes a highly-rated camera, the AW100, that is waterproof and shockproof-- and really small. While the image quality isn't quite as good as I'd get with my DSLR, it is still supposed to produce some great 16 megapixel images. In fact, PC Magazine gives its image quality very high marks. While there may be times I'll miss my DSLR, I think the trade off will be worth it. It will be lighter, smaller, not as awkward to carry if out of the pack, and not as prone to harm from sand, moisture, dirt, etc.(hopefully!) Everyone should hike his or her own hike, but for me, I'm looking forward the change.
weinrich
10-13-2013, 21:38
Before you make the plunge, read some reviews and take suggestions from the forum. Don't aim too low when choosing a camera. I've never heard anyone complaining that the camera they bought is too good.
Don't rule out used and refurbished cameras from dealers and manufacturers.
Camera Reviews
http://www.dpreview.com
http://www.kenrockwell.com
http://topbestwaterproofcamera.com
http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment.html
Opps! Yesterday, I meant to link this 8ounce bag Lowepro Toploader Zoom 45 AW Bag (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/672945-REG/Lowepro_LP36184_0EU_Toploader_Zoom_45_AW.html), which will work with a rebel with a 18-55mm lens. Sorry for linking to the camera instead.
That looks perfect! Thanks for posting that one. I've been wondering about taking my DSLR, just on an overnight, but never really found something that looks right. I have two other lowepro bags, and they make GREAT stuff. Now if I can convince myself the weight and bulk penatly is worth it (plus the risk of rain and nastiness on my SLR...)
Wise Old Owl
10-13-2013, 22:03
Interesting thread... I understand why some folk want a SLR on the trail - but its one pound without lenses. There are as little as two types of shot here Landscape and portrait. Not much else unless you are wildlife photog.. and for that one should consider going lighter. I would recommend a waterproof or water resistant Nikon with rechargeable battery for backpacking for lighter weight. The phones are catching up - the Iphone has a great camera and what doesn't work Photoshop repairs.
About the waterproof bags - clearly they all make the same claim - if you don't dunk test with tissues inside - shame on you... take it from someone who did loose a camera in a waterproof case. Don't let this happen to you.
>>The phones are catching up - the Iphone has a great camera and what doesn't work Photoshop repairs.
Iphone and other phone cameras are fine for good lighting but due to their small sensor size, their low lighting performance is noisy and lacking. I find that many of the photos I take on a long hike don't have such great lighting such as camp or catching things first thing in the morning or a night when the sun isn't providing much light. At least for me, one of the reasons I go with a sub-10lbs baseweight is so I can carry a good camera. This is a photo from the PCT in the High Sierra of the sky after sunset using a Micro 4/3 camera which is a little lighter then a DSLR though with a smaller sensor so its quality isn't as good. Still better then a point and shoot or phone.
24439
I carry my DSLR in one of these - http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/783559-REG/OverBoard_OB1087BLK_Waterproof_SLR_Camera_Bag.html
I wear it across my chest and when it is nice weather I leave the bag open and the camera is right there for easy access. It comes with a mini beaner that I use to clip to my pack to keep it stable and a little more out of the way while hiking. Been using it for a couple years now and no complaints at all.
Olympus OM-D 1 or 5. 12-50 lens. Ziplock bags. Done.
Wayne
The OM-D rocks. Especially with a Capture Clip from Peak Designs.
I'll be getting a new point and shoot... I dropped my old canon a620 yesterday while it was powering on. It landed on the lens and caused the dreaded "E18" lens failure error. (google it - there were lots of complaints on it at one point) Not wanting to take my DSLR - I think I'll be looking into a camera that will do RAW images, but still has a light and small form factor like a point and shoot. After spending a couple of hikes getting rained on for two days, I'm still not sure I want to subject my $750 camera to that.
Wise Old Owl
10-15-2013, 19:43
Olympus OM-D 1 or 5. 12-50 lens. Ziplock bags. Done.
Wayne
Never ever trust a $1000+ camera to a ziplock bag, Humidity, dust, sand, rain, etc - NO WAY. I wouldn't pass out that kind of advice.
88BlueGT
10-16-2013, 10:56
I have always had this same issue (Canon EOS user here!). I've always wanted to take my DSLR with me but never had the means of protecting/storing it.... UNTIL I found this.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/97103764/capture-camera-clip-v2
I was up in the Adirondacks doing some high peaks over the weekend and took this with me. I must say, I am absolutely amazed at the quality of this product. It clips easily, stores safely, doesn't shift or move around, etc. I also have the 'pro pad' which is absolutely necessary if you are putting it on your pack (the pro-pad has padding on the backside so you don't have the actual clip digging into your shoulder). Luckily, my rain gear is pretty baggy in my chest area (The Packa) so I wore my rain gear with the camera still mounted (rained all day one of the days) and had zero issues. It's a tad expensive but comes highly recommended.
Never ever trust a $1000+ camera to a ziplock bag, Humidity, dust, sand, rain, etc - NO WAY. I wouldn't pass out that kind of advice.
Been there. Done that. Still have the cameras, lenses AND photos to prove it. There are more secure containers available which I also own, but haven't used them backpacking. YMMV.
Wayne
Something like this will protect a camera quite well.
http://www.divers-supply.com/-P19150.aspx?afid=1&utm_source=adwordsfroogle&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=adwordsfroogle&utm_content=19150&gclid=CJOap8bSm7oCFcvm7AoddE0AyA
There are many ways to keep things dry.
Wayne
88BlueGT
10-16-2013, 14:44
^^ Something like that would work but would need to be much larger in order to house a DLSR camera. IMO, if your storing it in your pack.... you're not using it enough to warrant bringing it. For the 3+lbs I would rather bring bricks of cheese w/ me, maybe my house pillow and a blow up pad!
kidchill
10-18-2013, 09:03
Yah, I have a Nikon D300 and a D80...I never carry either of those anymore. They're just too bulky to be backpacking with. I did pick up a Sony Nex-7 and I've been using that lately. I haven't yet put the pics on the computer for editing, but with a sensor size that nears that of DSLR's (APS-C), I think the quality will be great.
88BlueGT
10-18-2013, 13:11
Yah, I have a Nikon D300 and a D80...I never carry either of those anymore. They're just too bulky to be backpacking with. I did pick up a Sony Nex-7 and I've been using that lately. I haven't yet put the pics on the computer for editing, but with a sensor size that nears that of DSLR's (APS-C), I think the quality will be great.
+1 Pretty sure there are companies out there who make full frame point and shoot camera now. Makes me feel a bit silly w/ my 4lb EOS T1i strapped to my chest when I could have something 1/5 of the weight in my pocket.
imscotty
10-18-2013, 13:53
Never ever trust a $1000+ camera to a ziplock bag, Humidity, dust, sand, rain, etc - NO WAY. I wouldn't pass out that kind of advice.
WOO, the OM-D and some of their lenses are 'Weather Sealed' and protected from the elements. Not that you would want to test it in extreme conditions but a quality Zip-Lock as an extra layer of protection seems reasonable on the trail to me.
I have been looking at the four thirds system as a nice comprimize between weight and quality but I have not pulled the trigger yet. I would love to hear more from people who have used these in the field.
Scott
+1 Pretty sure there are companies out there who make full frame point and shoot camera now. Makes me feel a bit silly w/ my 4lb EOS T1i strapped to my chest when I could have something 1/5 of the weight in my pocket.
No full frame P&S yet, but SONY just announced the mirrorless A7. 24 Mp. Smallish body a la NEX 7. I didn't look at the weight after seeing the price: ~$1,700. Or the A7R, 36 Mp & $2,300. Plus lenses. Yikes!
http://www.dpreview.com/news/2013/10/16/first-impressions-review-of-the-full-frame-sony-a7-and-a7r
For those prices, I can carry any one of my antiques (Hasselblad, Pentax 6x7 or Leica M5) and a lot of film.
Wayne
WOO, the OM-D and some of their lenses are 'Weather Sealed' and protected from the elements. Not that you would want to test it in extreme conditions but a quality Zip-Lock as an extra layer of protection seems reasonable on the trail to me.
I have been looking at the four thirds system as a nice comprimize between weight and quality but I have not pulled the trigger yet. I would love to hear more from people who have used these in the field.
Scott
A friend of mine is doing fantastic work with his OM-D.
http://gallery.leica-users.org/v/wclavey
Wayne