tamrac

I own the Sony DSC-717 digital camera and have found this bag complimentary to the Sony. The only improvement I believe it needs is the addition of a chest strap. To correct this problem I went to a local outdoor supply store and built one myself for less than two dollars... All in all it's an outstanding backpack.

I was finding that many of my activities were going unphotographed because I didn't have a way to safely carry my equipment. Activities such as bike riding, cross country skiing or canoeing have not been a part of my photohistory--until I got the Tamrac Expedition 3 backpack.

The "Expedition" holds my SLR with a 300mm lens, my standard lens, my off camera flash, extra film, standard filters and cleaning supplies, with room left over for my keys and money. Everything is well padded and secure, and the pack is quite small and sits squarely on my back. A sturdy top handle allows it to be carried in hand, and its small size makes this possible without dragging it along the ground as I do so. The materials used are very sturdy; the pack can stand on its own and does not "collapse."

The only down side, and this is true of any camera backpack, is the need to take it off and zip it open to get at your gear. If this would be a concern, you may want to check out the top-loading hip packs, which I passed on since they always feel awkward to me. Years of hauling backpacks make the "Expedition" seem like second nature to me. No longer will my photohistory suggest couch potato-dom; now I can shoot my exploits on trail or river, thanks to the "Expedition!"

I returned this item because it was just not big enough for my SLR. I have two lenses, neither is huge. I tried to fit the camera with one lens on and another off, plus flash and a few other gizmos. Everything was too tight. There were several pockets inside the flap allegedly for accessories (they mentioned filters), but my filters, my notebook, my lens tissue -- none fit! They make some dubous claim about strapping on a tripod, but they don't mean a professional tripod, I guess.

I'll try the larger model and see if things are better.