Camera Reviews

Lowepro Lens Case 1N (Black) Review

Lowepro Lens Case 1N (Black) Feature

• Inner dimension of 5-by-3-inches packs two teleconverters or a mid-range, variable aperture zoom or fixed focal length lens
• Outer fabric water-resistant 600D TXP material keeps lens safe and protected
• Stacking divider separates and protects lenses
• OverLap zipper for extra protection
• SlipLock attachment tabs fastens to belt, S&F belt or harness, or any SlipLock base product

I bought this little case to hook to my belt when using my E-P2. I really hate digging around in a camera bag, so this is a great solution: have the M.Zuiko 17mm or the Panasonic 20mm mounted on the camera, with the camera slung over my head, and have one larger lens in the belt pack.

Construction is good, as you’d expect from Lowepro. The Velcro attachment is quite sturdy and I trust it to easily handle the weight of any lens that could fit.

The only minus is that this is clearly branded as Lowepro and might be easily identifiable by potential thieves. Of course, it attaches so securely, that I imagine the belt would give before the Velcro if some ne’er-do-well tried to rip it off of me.

Here are some of the lenses I know it holds comfortably. Unless otherwise noted, I have the Sony mount version, but size should be nearly identical for other systems:

- Olympus 50mm f/2.0 Telephoto Macro (4/3) with hood reversed and Panasonic M4/3 Adapter mounted (it fits with the hood mounted in shooting position, but it bulges uncomfortably)
- Panasonic 45-200mm f/4.0-5.6 (Micro 4/3) with hood reversed
- Tamron AF 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 with hood reversed
- Tamron AF 28-75mm f/2.8 with hood reversed
- Tamron AF 11-18mm f/4.5-5.6 without hood (this hood is very wide)
- Sony SAL16105 16-105mm f/3.5-5.6 with hood reversed

Lenses that come close, but won’t quite fit:

- Sony 75-300mm f/4.5-5.6 width is good, even with hood reversed, but this lens is too long by at least a couple of cm

You can of course use this for smaller lenses too, but I wouldn’t get *much* smaller than the ones listed here. If a lens isn’t wide enough, it will have room to roll around in the case.

I bought this case specifically for the Panasonic 45-200mm, which is the largest lens I own for Micro 4/3. It fits that lens like a glove; you couldn’t really ask for a better fit.

One fun alternate configuration that I have used for my E-P2 is storing the diminutive Olympus 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 in the bag, along with the Olympus FL-14 Flash and the OLYMPUS 260057 Electronic View Finder, and keeping one of the pancake primes mounted on the camera. That makes a great little walkaround kit.

Lowepro Lens Case 1N (Black) Overview

The Lens Case 1N by Lowepro is a black pouch to protect and carry an extra lens. Extra padding and rigid bases protect and support valuable lenses. All Lowepro Lens Cases are compatible with their Street and Field modular system and SlipLock base products.

Lowepro Lens Case 1N (Black) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Aug 31, 2010 08:54:30

Lowepro Topload Zoom AW Camera Bag (Black) Review

Lowepro Topload Zoom AW Camera Bag (Black) Feature

• Perfect for a DSLR with a telephoto lens attached (i.e. 70-200mm f/2.8) and accessories.
• Includes built in All Weather cover to protect the case and its contents from the elements
• SlipLock compatible product – add on other SlipLock products such as the Bottle Bag, Lens Cases or SlipLock Pouches (all sold separately).
• Zippered front pocket with interior laminated mesh pocket for accessories
• Reverse-open lid for easy access and security when grabbing your camera

In 1995 I bought a Canon Elan SLR camera, a 70-210mm f/4 telephoto zoom lens, and a black Lowepro Topload Zoom AW at a local camera store. Now it’s 2010. The Elan has been in the back of a drawer since I switched to digital, and the zoom lens has long since been replaced by a much better one, but the Topload Zoom AW is still in daily use and shows no sign of wearing out. This is one durable camera bag.

This is a pretty roomy bag. A lens of up to about 7.75″ (for example, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens) mounted on a DSLR fits comfortably inside the main compartment without making the zipper difficult to close. Alternatively, you can put a smaller lens on the camera and have room to store another small lens at the bottom of the bag, with one of the supplied velcro-edged pads in between. The outer compartment is suitable for storing a couple of filters, a spare battery, and other small accessories (memory cards, USB cables, etc.).

The bag makes rapid access while standing very convenient. When the zipper is opened, the lid gets out of the way automatically; due to the Topload’s design, the lid naturally wants to stand up, and has to be held down by the zipper. This is much better than the conventional bag design in which the lid wants to flop down and get in your way.

I had no idea when I bought this bag that I’d still be using it 15 years later. Every so often I browse the camera bags available here on Amazon to see if there’s anything I think I’d rather be using, but I haven’t found anything yet.

Lowepro Topload Zoom AW Camera Bag (Black) Overview

The Topload Zoom AW by Lowepro is a great traveler! Our original Topload Zoom (TLZ) has attachment loops for optional SlipLock add-ons (such as the Bottle Bag, Lens Cases, or SlipLock Pouches – all sold separately). The TLZ AW is made of a tough, water-resistant 600 TXP and 600D TXP ripstop materials, and has an All Weather Cover to protect from the elements. The reverse-open lid and hand grip allows for easy access to your camera so you never miss a shot. There is also a large zippered front pocket to hold your accessories. The TLZ AW comes with a padded, contoured shoulder strap that is removable and adjustable.

Lowepro Topload Zoom AW Camera Bag (Black) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Aug 11, 2010 20:54:08

Lowepro Nova 200 AW Camera Bag (Chestnut Brown) Review

Lowepro Nova 200 AW Camera Bag (Chestnut Brown) Feature

• 360° All Weather Cover protects entire bag while allowing access to camera
• Rolling luggage sleeve easily slips over rolling luggage handle
• Re-designed, one-piece overlapping lid allows improved access to main compartment; offers additional weather protection
• Adjustable removable shoulder strap with non slip pad comfortable to wear; easily removed when not needed
• Front access accessory pocket provides storage for batteries, accessories, money, keys

This bag primary storage is excellent. I can fit 1 camera, 6 medium size lenses (1 mounted), 1 extender, 2 extension tubes, and my light meter all comfortably in the primary storage area. That area is divided by padded dividers. I have my bag divided to 5 sections with some items stacked with divider sandwiched in between. It makes pulling lower items a little harder but that is where I have my less used items such as extender and extension tubes stored usually.

I would say the size and storage capacity of this bag leaves nothing more to be desired. In fact, I would go as far as saying you don’t want anything bigger for a shoulder bag because otherwise the bag will be too bulky, heavy, and the design too deep to be practical. Plus fitting something bigger to the top will weight down the bag to the point of making it hard on the shoulder.

The one area where this bag leaves something to be desired is the accessory storage area such as pockets and pouches. In fact this bag does not include covered pouches, just mainly pockets sewed into the main body of the bag. That is the problem since those smaller storage areas were not designed to act as separate compartments (just sewed on) they can’t carry much. I had a hard time fitting my accessories including three filters, charger, extra battery, cables, caps, and few other misc items. In fact I had to remove all my B+W 77mm filters from their clear plastic shells to fit them in the bag. That’s really disappointing especially considering that my factory supplied, but smaller, canon bag had better accessories pockets that could accommodate all accessories much easier.

Overall the bag primary storage area is roomy and well padded. The construction material is typical Lowepro high quality. The strap is well padded and comfortable to wear. The only downside is the accessories pockets; they simply are not up to the level of the rest of the bag.

Lowepro Nova 200 AW Camera Bag (Chestnut Brown) Overview

The Nova AW Series is the right choice for enthusiast to professional photographers seeking superior weather protection in a comfortable and functional shoulder bag. The re-designed All Weather Cover provides 360° of protection from the elements while allowing you to work out of the bag in all weather conditions. Padded shoulder strap and grab handle ensure comfortable use; Memory Card pockets keep cards securely stored and zippered pockets hold a variety of accessories. Available in five sizes to fit enthusiast to professional kits, the Nova is perfect protection for a variety of shooting situations.

Lowepro Nova 200 AW Camera Bag (Chestnut Brown) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Jul 15, 2010 04:48:39

Lowepro Apex 60 AW (Black) Review

Lowepro Apex 60 AW (Black) Feature

• Single pocket design provides easy and secure access to camera and accessories
• Memory card pocket so you can quickly find your extra memory cards in the same place every time.
• Soft Tricot linging and Microfiber lined divider to protect the camera & LCD from scratches
• SlipLock¿ attachment tab so you can securely attach to other Lowepro products.
• Lowepro’s patented All Weather cover to protect bag and contents from extreme weather, sand, dirt, etc.

I searched high and low for a good bag for my G-10. The Lowepro 60 fits the camera nicely with enough room for an extra battery and SD cards. It is possible to fit the camera with its neckstrap, but I found the neckstrap pretty cumbersome to begin with so I took mine off.

I haven’t had to use the all weather pouch, but its nice to know this bag has one that slips out from a little pocket on the back.

The bag’s strap is a little thin, but its a small bag for a small camera, so I don’t know why you’d want anything bigger.

All around the best case I found for the G-10, and a well-made product.

Lowepro Apex 60 AW (Black) Overview

Designed for the elements, the Lowepro Apex 60 AW (Black) satisfies even the most discerning adventure photographer. Designed for compact point and shoot digital cameras or ultra-compact camcorders, the Apex 60 AW is lightweight and rugged, providing a single pocket design keeping its contents protected in one convenient compartment. Main camera compartment has an organizer for extra memory card and an extra battery. The Apex 60 AW also includes a built-in All Weather Cover(TM) to offer maximum protection against rain, dust and sand.

Lowepro Apex 60 AW (Black) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Jun 15, 2010 11:36:09

Lowepro Fastpack 350 (Red) Review

Lowepro Fastpack 350 (Red) Feature

• Side Entry Compartment provides easy access to D-SLR equipment and accessories, even when pack is being worn
• Triple Compartment Design ensures superior camera protection, notebook protection (fits up to a 17″ Widescreen)
• 180-Degree access panel with adjustable dividers provides excellent protection in a customized fit that’s easy to load.
• Outer accessory pockets provide external storage for other accessories with fast access
• Tough, water-resistant outer fabric protects against moisture and abrasion

This bag is huge. It easily holds a camera, 5 or more lenses, rolled film, filters, flash attachments, cable releases, lens cleaning kit, a quart bottle of water in a side pouch, lunch. I took it recently to NYC for a day trip and had all the devices for a digital and a film camera. Be careful not to overload yourself. If you have a lot of stuff, this is the bag for you. It is comfortable and distributes the weight by adjustable shoulder straps, a waist stap, and chest strap. You will want to add a back-pack rain pouch which is not included. All zippers are covered with pack fabric so I’m sure it will not leak in a light rain. The bag is black and will absorb light, so making that rain pouch a light and reflective fabric may help keep your film and other equipment cooler. And, an additional benefit, I eliminated two old camera bags by consolidating everything into this single back pack. If you want to get a lot of stuff into one place, this is the bag for you. I haven’t used the slot for my computer, but, it has an 17″ screen and fits perfectly. You could fit your tripod under the back flap such that it would stick out left and right like a bed roll. It seems to work OK, but I haven’t used it for that, yet, but it does fit. Finally, the pack is made with high-quality material. I’m sure it will give me years and years of service.

Lowepro Fastpack 350 (Red) Overview

On streets or trails, you can shoot all day when you wear the lightweight, comfortable Fastpack 350 backpack by Lowepro. It protects a digital SLR with grip and a 24-70mm f/ 2.8 or 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached, plus 17″ Widescreen notebook. Generous storage for additional lenses such as 18-200mm, 100, 400 VR, or 70-300mm f/4, flash, and other personal accessories. You won’t miss a shot, because side-entry compartments let you grab equipment and accessories, even while you’re on the move or without taking the backpack completely off! Customize the easy-to-access main compartment with adjustable dividers, use the outer organizer to keep larger accessories handy, and manage memory cards with a built-in pocket. Brethable, contoured shoulder straps distribute weight evenly.

Lowepro Fastpack 350 (Red) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Jun 01, 2010 13:19:11

Lowepro Adventura 140 Camera Case (Black) Review

Lowepro Adventura 140 Camera Case (Black) Feature

• Rainflap lid covers zippered closure and protects contents
• Quick-release buckle provides additional closure method and allows quick access to contents while bag is unzipped
• Removable/adjustable shoulder strap with non-slip patch and snaphooks provides comfortable carrying option with easy-to-connect hardware
• Zippered front pocket features memory card and orginzation pockets to store extra memory, accessories and personal items
• Padded interior fully lines in tricot in contrasting burnt organge color provides protective, soft and high-visibility surface

Very nicely built smaller size case for a camera and just a few extras. The size is actually a practical size for me to be able to carry when I’m out hiking with my family. It’s durable and the strap is very adjustable. I was looking for something that either my husband or I could use and there is a foot difference between our heights. This case fits my needs and my camera perfectly.
All the zippers and clasp are secure, and it’s well padded.
Great lightweight smaller case.

Lowepro Adventura 140 Camera Case (Black) Overview

The Adventura 140 by Lowepro is perfect for the DSLR user who’s looking for a protective, lightweight, streamlined shoulder bag that’s packed with practical features at a great value. The zippered main compartment features a quick-release buckle and rainflap lid, offering quick access to contents when bag is unzipped, and extra protection when it is fully closed. A removable/adjustable shoulder strap features a non-slip patch and sturdy snaphooks make connections secure. Insde the fully padded interior, a soft tricot lining provides protection, plus a high-visibility burnt orange color – making it easy to see gear while you work out of the bag. Additional organization features include: zippered front pocket with memory card storage, two pleated side pockets, and a slip pocket for storing manuals, maps or a notepad. A padded grab handle for additional carrying option and comfort.

Lowepro Adventura 140 Camera Case (Black) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: May 18, 2010 06:16:44

Lowepro CompuTrekker Plus AW Camera Backpack (Black) Review

Lowepro CompuTrekker Plus AW Camera Backpack (Black) Feature

• Perfect for location photographers or photojournalist, the CompuTrekker Plus AW has extra room for large professional SLR camera
• Meets airline carry-on requirements
• Hidden built-in tripod holder and plenty of laminated pockets to organize and protect all your cables, wires and accessories
• Lowepro’s patented all weather cover to protect bag and contents from extreme weather, sand, dirt, etc
• SlipLock attachment slots allow you to attach additional Lowepro accessories and pouches to the CompuTrekker Plus AW

Anybody who has traveled with a DSLR and a laptop knows the challenge: the pounds add up quickly, along the with the necessary accumulation of power cords, AC adapters, storage media, pens, notebooks, cleaning supplies, filters, USB and ethernet cables, storage media…

This bag won’t help with the poundage, but it will consolidate all of that stuff into a single bag that will fit into an overhead bin. For that alone, it hits a home run. Bonus points for overall good design and high quality construction and materials.

Here’s what I typically haul in this bag: a DSLR, two lenses, a full size laptop (15″ monitor)and its AC adapter, a GPS, a laptop security cable, an Ethernet cable, USB cables for the DSLR and GPS, extra SD media cards, a flash unit, a thumb drive or two,lens cleaner, extra batteries, a Moleskine Small Plain Notebook, reading glasses and a few blank CD-Rs.

All of that stuff not only fits in the bag, but once loaded, the bag still fits in the overhead bin (on one flight it fit in the overhead bin with all of that PLUS five pounds of clothing that a counter agent rejected from my checked bag!).

The layout of the inner storage area is highly customizable, and the included accessory bags help keep cables and small pieces consolidated.

Even with a five star rating, some caveats:
-I don’t use this for hiking or backpacking, and this review doesn’t address it’s usefulness for those activities. I use it as an alternative to separate camera and laptop bags for air travel. And whether I travel by air or car, I have a separate, smaller bag that goes in my checked luggage for carrying only the camera and lenses when I’m actually taking pictures at my destination. Even so, this is an ideal single-bag answer to the DSLR-laptop air travel packing challenge.
-When you put all that gear in one carry-on: expect additional attention when you go through security. Allow extra time and get used to manual inspections of this bag if you load it to max capacity:-)
-At the bottom front of this bag, there is a velcro-secured fold-down pocket flap of uncertain utility (at least to me!). Mostly I use it as a place to tuck the waist straps, which I seldom bother with.

If you’ve got digital baggage, this is a superb solution…

Lowepro CompuTrekker Plus AW Camera Backpack (Black) Overview

The perfect combo for photo gear and notebook computers just got better! Perfect for location photographers or photojournalist, the CompuTrekker Plus AW has extra room for large professional SLR camera and still meets airline carry-on requirements. Carefully designed to withstand all the use and abuse you can give it, this pack’s reinforced construction, shock-absorbing, closed-cell foam and water resistant materials provide the highest level of protection. The comfortable padded shoulder harness and removable waistbelt provide a comfortable fit for hours on end. The interior is fully customizable and includes removable padded dividers, removable accessory pouches and see-through laminated mesh pockets so you can quickly see what’s stored inside. A padded rear compartment with water-resistant zipper protects your notebook and provides access even while wearing the pack. Additional features include a built-in memory card pocket, our patented All Weather Cover¿, SlipLock¿ attachment loops made from Hypalon®, built-in tripod holder, and Batwing¿ compression straps for maximum stability.

Lowepro CompuTrekker Plus AW Camera Backpack (Black) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Apr 14, 2010 10:25:09

Lowepro Compact AW (Black) Review

Lowepro Compact AW (Black) Feature

• Compact AW Capacity: 2 pro SLRs, 3¿5 lenses, flash and accessories; or 645 medium format camera, 4 lenses and accessories
• Includes a removable see-through FilmPack, detachable Pro AW Side Pockets for accessories, and an ultra-durable padded shoulder strap.
• Camera compartment is fully customizable for your SLR or Camcorder system, with adjustable and removable padded dividers.
• Lowepro’s patented All Weather cover to protect bag and contents from extreme weather, sand, dirt, etc.
• SlipLock attachment slots allow you to attach additional Lowepro accessories and pouches to the Commercial AW.

I have had my Lowepro Compact AW for several years now and, unlike other bags I’ve owned, I keep finding more room in it! How is that possible? Not only is every pocket extra-deep, with generous size that swallows accessories, but the main compartment is a master of versatility.

The panels inside form a grid pattern that could hold 12 lenses, for example. Each panel is movable, removable, and foldable. Initially, I had one SLR body, 4 lenses, cases and cases of film, and piles of filters in my bag. Now, I have reconfigured it to adapt to my new style of shooting… TWO full sized SLR bodies (Nikon F100 and Nikon D200), 4 different lenses, memory cards, cables, and an external flash… and there is plenty of room to grow.

Further, the heft of the fabric and zippers means my bag shows NO SIGNS OF WEAR after literally YEARS of use.

In one word: FANTASTIC.
In seven words: THE BEST CAMERA BAG I’VE EVER OWNED.

Lowepro Compact AW (Black) Overview

The Lowepro Compact AW is a hardworking shoulder bag which includes an OverLap Zipper¿ and All Weather Cover¿, modular interior, removable see-through FilmPack, lots of inner and outer pockets, two removable Pro AW Side Pockets, padded shoulder strap, leather handle and attachment loops for optional SlipLock¿ add-ons.

Lowepro Compact AW (Black) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Mar 31, 2010 07:20:28

Lowepro Cirrus TLZ 5 Soft Case For Bridge Style Digital Cameras (Ultramarine Blue) Review

Lowepro Cirrus TLZ 5 Soft Case For Bridge Style Digital Cameras (Ultramarine Blue) Feature

• Brushed-tricot lined main compartment to protect the digital camera and LCD screen against dust and scratches.
• Built-in media storage enables quick access and storage for memory cards of all varieties.
• Tough, water-resistant outer fabric protects against moisture and abrasion.
• Adjustable 360 degree swivelling shoulder strap, belt loop and padded handle offer a variety of comfortable carrying options.
• Dust-reduction reversed zippers helps keeps dust and dirt out of the camera compartment.

Really like this case. It fits my camera (Canon PowerShot S5IS) like a glove. There is room in the front pocket for extra batteries (my camera needs 4) and a little pocket inside the top for an extra memory card, although the one I bought for the camera is very large and will probably never need to use the pocket. This camera case is quite comfortable to use with the neck/shoulder strap. It also has a secure belt loop if you prefer. Have had it out on my hikes and it is convenient to access. All in all a great camera case.

Lowepro Cirrus TLZ 5 Soft Case For Bridge Style Digital Cameras (Ultramarine Blue) Overview

Designed for today’s pro-compact and compact digital cameras, the Cirrus TLZ 5 (Ultramarine Blue) by Lowepro easily protects both camera and fixed-lens from the outside elements. The interior features a memory card pocket for quick card changes and a brushed tricot lining protecting LCD screens and lenses from abrasion. The exterior of the bag is built with a tough water and abrasion resistant fabric and can be attached through either a belt-loop or with an included shoulder strap. This lightweight and compact top loading bag provides digital camera users with solid protection and fast access to capture those spontaneous moments.

Lowepro Cirrus TLZ 5 Soft Case For Bridge Style Digital Cameras (Ultramarine Blue) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Mar 27, 2010 06:05:20

Lowepro Nova 140 AW Camera Bag (Bordeaux Red) Review

Lowepro Nova 140 AW Camera Bag (Bordeaux Red) Feature

• 360° All Weather Cover protects entire bag while allowing access to camera
• Sewn belt loops allows option to wear as belt pack
• Re-designed, one-piece overlapping lid allows improved access to main compartment; offers additional weather protection
• Adjustable removable shoulder strap with non slip pad comfortable to wear; easily removed when not needed
• Front access accessory pocket provides storage for batteries, accessories, money, keys

The other reviews do a good job of describing how great this bag is, but there is one feature I want to point out that I find extremely beneficial. Unlike many other shoulder bags, which close either with a zipper or a quick-release clasp, this bag (like the other, larger, Lowepro Novas) has both a zipper and a quick release. So if I’m walking around town and know I’m going to be shooting, I leave the zipper open and rely on the clasp to keep everything secure, making it very easy for me to reach down, release the clasp, and grab my Pentax K-X with only one hand. But if I’m traveling or the weather is bad, I close the zipper as well and know that my camera and lenses are safe (even safer if I employ the built-in, handy-dandy, fold-away weather-proof shield). Make sure you get one of the larger ones if you have a big telephoto lens or carry a flash and multiple lenses at the same time. But for a small kit, this bag — with its many features, sturdy construction, and superb convenience — is perfect (and a bargain).

Lowepro Nova 140 AW Camera Bag (Bordeaux Red) Overview

Lowepro has updated its perennially successful Nova shoulder bag series to accommodate the most popular digital SLR cameras, lenses, memory cards and accessories.  This feature-rich series boasts improved attributes and innovations, including the newly-designed 360° All Weather Cover which allows you to keep the bag fully protected from the elements while in use, Memory Card pockets, cushioned grab-handle and an overlap lid that provides increased weather protection.

Lowepro Nova 140 AW Camera Bag (Bordeaux Red) Specifications

Available at Amazon Check Price Now!

*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Mar 11, 2010 02:00:13