Urban Photo Sling 150
Carrying around a cumbersome bag during a photo shoot can really drag you down, that is why I have multiple bags that work in different ways. The Urban Photo Sling 150 is great camera bag to take with you when photographing. The comfortable, versatile design allows you to wear the bag three different ways, my favorite is across my back leaving my hands and arms completely free. I am able to carry my 5D Mark III, Canon 100mm Macro lens and my favorite lens-my Canon 24-105mm. The interior compartments are adjustable and can securely hold your gear allowing you easy access with two different zipper openings. It even has a padded compartment for my iPad. Front accessory pocket for my keys and phone.
I was asked by B&H to review the
Oben CC-2320L 3-Section Carbon Fiber Lateral Tripod and I have to say that it has been a great addition to my gear bag. I am finding it works especially well for getting into difficult positions and shooting angles. I usually don't like a center column and don't use one ever for avian photography since I am almost always getting down very low
but for HDR and flower photography it comes in very handy to have the swiveling center column that tilts 180°; I am enjoying a full range of motion with this tripod. So let's discuss how this swiveling feature can help you in the field. When I photograph at a public garden or conservatory I am limited by where I can walk and where I can place my tripod; being able to adjust my tripod so that my tripod head cantilevers over the center position of the legs becomes an invaluable feature. The center column rotates around allowing multiple positioning so that you can take steady shots from virtually any angle. I never tried this type of tripod with a lateral arm but I am finding it to be a great asset in the field. I also like the light weight 6x carbon fiber legs that extend to a height of 68.3". The flip-locks and rubber tips with retractable spikes are both features I like having with this tripod. With a load capacity of 26.4 pounds I feel confident that my camera and lens are secure. The tripod comes with a padded carrying bag, bubble level, shoulder strap and two Allen keys that can attach to one of the tripod legs. The company offers a 5 Year Limited Warranty. This tripod is moderately priced at $329.95 and is available at
B&H Photo.
Passport Sling II
In a recent e-mail, Lowepro asked if I could take a look at their new Passport Sling II which had recently been updated and improved. As the product was still in development I was unable to share my thoughts about the bag with you until today. After using the bag on two photo shoots I got a good feel for what it has to offer. I own lots of different camera bags. Having the right bag with you on a photo shoot can enhance the experience while having a bag that is too small, over-sized, or cumbersome can hinder your flexibility and efficiency in the field. And that will always be reflected in your images. During my Eastern State Penitentiary workshop in Pennsylvania last month I experienced first-hand how miserable it can be to have a an over-sized bag flopping around on your back.
I like the sling design of the upgraded bag and that it doesn't look like a traditional bulky camera bag. I love the expandable zipper on the side that allows you to create more interior space when needed. This lightweight bag is very comfortable and is water repellent. The long shoulder strap can be adjusted to any length and has a cushioned shoulder pad. The Passport Sling II has extra side pockets that are great for easy access to water bottles and some smaller accessories. The interior pockets can be used to safely store your keys and cell phone. The black and red version at the top of this page shows the removable liner that can be used to protect either a camera or lens or both. This re-designed bag is great for travel, especially so because it is not a conspicuous camera bag that asks to be stolen. And best of all, the sling design allows for hours of comfort while in the field. I will be taking this bag with me on my next photo excursion .
Size difference between the Passport Sling II and the original Passport:
Sling II
Interior Camera Compartment:
13.8W x 4.7D x 9.6H in.
35 x 12 x 24.5 cm
Exterior:
15.3W x 7.4D x 11.7H in.
38.8 x 18.8 x 29.8 cm
Original Sling
Interior Camera Compartment:
4.1W x 7.5D x 7.5H in.
10.5 x 19 x 19 cm
Exterior:
5.7W x 17.3D x 16H in.
14.5 x 44 x 41 cm
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