Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)1. There are a few things that I'd like to put out there prior to getting into my overall impressions of the versapack:
a. There is no perfect photo backpack (or camera bag)
b. Since there is no perfect photo backpack, trying to find the one perfect camera bag is a futile exercise.
c. If you accept the above points, then you'll realize that one needs multiple photo bags, based on the gear you need to carry for the particular occasion.
2. With the above being said, the versapack is a very good photo backpack with the following pros / cons:
a. Pro: it's made by lowepro--> ie very good construction and it's comfortable. Furthermore, unlike the other similar products (ex: that sling type bag or... quick type backpack; sorry I forgot the official names), this pack has a waistbelt (very important in my book) and a sterum strap (also very important to have)... AND, it has a fairly decent tripod holder. I know most folks don't need the tripod holder, but it may come in handy once in a while.
b. Pro or Neutral Feature: for me, I wanted a pack that would enable me to quickly access my camera and thus this one has the ability to open the side pouch and grab the camera without having to take the entire thing off. Unlike the lowepro fastpack, the versapack can be opened from either the right or left side; ie some folks might have a preference over which should to sling the bag, with this thing, you choose. With the fastpack, you can only do it via the right shoulder.As far as getting your camera out of the slot, it works fairly decently. Anytime you're dealing with this type of system, it's going to take some getting used to. There are always going to be trade offs etc...
c. Pro: Carrying Comfort: Compared to the slingshot (which I've used) and the fastpack (which I've also used), this bag carrys a load much better, especially compared to the slingshot.
d. Pro or Con: the actual photo carrying capacity is limited, but this is to be expected. The overall bag size is perfect; not too big, not too small and it's fairly light. As a result, this bag is for those folks with a smallish DSLR (ie, not for those with a full frame camera or an APS-C DSLR with a batt grip etc...). obviously everything depends on your particular system, but I have an Olympus E620 (ie pretty small DSLR) with 12-60mm (fairly decent sized zoom). This bag will easily hold that camera / lens, + extra smallish zoom, + flash or whatever else.
e. Pro: the extra open compartment above is nice, where you can put extra photo gear if so desired or whatever else.
f. Con: the only or main negative I have with this bag is the how the zipper opens to the main open compartment. I suppose based on the overall atypical design of the bag, they had to do it this way, however because of the design (you just have to check it out in person), opening or closing that zipper is a two handed affair. I just wish that they used a more traditional design, like the rover series. Now why didn't I get the rover? The rover doesn't allow for the rapid access of the camera etc...
3. Anyway, sorry for the longwinded analysis. Bottomline, this is probably the best camera backpack IF you require rapid access of your smallish DSLR AND want the most comfort and stability. Very good job Lowepro. Next time, get the zipper deal right.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Lowepro Versapack 200 AW Camera Backpack (Gray/ Polar Blue)
Starting at the top, Versapack 200 AW by Lowepro features a lightly padded upper compartment with plenty of room for personal items and includes extra storage pockets. Use the handy outside stash pocket to stow a camera manual, guide book, maps or anything you need quick access to. The lower camera compartment and upper pack are separated by a fully removable horizontal divider that features 2 built-in memory card pockets. In the lower compartment you can top load a DSLR and 2-3 other lenses or accessories, or adjust the dividers to side load a DSLR and quickly access-from left or right-via the side-zippered pocket. Additional features include: Hideaway Tripod Mount; All Weather AW Cover; SlipLock attachment loops; removable waistbelt and adjustable sternum strap; and compression straps at bottom of pack to add a lightweight jacket or tripod.
Click here for more information about Lowepro Versapack 200 AW Camera Backpack (Gray/ Polar Blue)
0 comments:
Post a Comment