Rick Posted February 6, 2011 Share #21 Posted February 6, 2011 Advertisement (gone after registration) Maybe,this site will be of interest to you guys that kind of get off on bags: http://www.thebagforum.com/ Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Advertisement Posted February 6, 2011 Posted February 6, 2011 Hi Rick, Take a look here Hi - and bag inserts. I'm sure you'll find what you were looking for!
keithdunlop Posted February 6, 2011 Share #22 Posted February 6, 2011 In order to be discrete, a camera bag has to be properly "seasoned". My favorite bag for any Leica M system remains the Domke F-3x, but I like them a little beat up. This is what I did to give my bag an "unattractive to thieves" look: I took the bag and soaked it in a bucket of water with fabric softener. Then, I ran it in the dryer (without heat) for a couple of hours with 6 tennis balls and a couple pairs of Vans shoes in order to give it a good beating. I think it helped to loosen-up the canvas a bit, and further general use and exposure to the elements should take care of the rest. I should also say, this particular F-3x has been to Central American a couple of times, and through the wash about a dozen times -- all in addition to the recent tennis ball beating I gave it. The thing is starting to get a nice "I'm not a camera bag" look to it, but it doesn't show the slightest hint of seam wear or other indication of coming apart. This quite a statement of craftsmanship and durability! On a side note - I think Leica users would love to see a F-3x specific insert that would hold two bodies on end with lenses attached, as well as a couple extra lenses. A rectangular insert with two small square pockets on one end, and a diagonal divider separating the remaining space for the two bodies would work really well. The little velcroed divider piece that comes with the bag is a little too wimpy to keep things really organized. Just my take as a heavy Domke bag user. Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here… Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! Link to post Share on other sites Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! ' data-webShareUrl='https://www.l-camera-forum.com/topic/143114-hi-and-bag-inserts/?do=findComment&comment=1580007'>More sharing options...
gwelland Posted February 6, 2011 Share #23 Posted February 6, 2011 I use the Artisan & Artist red insert in a Domke F-803 canvas bag but it would readily fit in any messenger bag and provide lightly padded and easily visible protection for an M & lens and two extra lenses. I like the fact that they are not too padded and also the bright colour makes it easy to actually find stuff. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ulev Posted February 7, 2011 Share #24 Posted February 7, 2011 Recently, I bought a second hand Billingham for Leica bag. Colleagues did not "recognise" it as being a camera bag hah, more something like a "men's handbag". There goes the "expensive camera inside !!!" theory ! :-) I love the bag itselve. Acces is easy, no zippers that can scratch your gear, a protective flap and last but not least a great belt with un incredible comfortable shoulder strap. Which remains in place when you slide the bag in front of you or back aside. Great quality materials. I guess that maybe people are (too) careful to "wear" a Billingham bag because of the price tag. They put a messenger bag in the washing machine in order to age it, but they tread their Billingham as if it's a fashion article. ( Not saying you should put a Billingham in teh washing machine coz you should NOT do that !!!!) I guess my Billingham will just get better while aging and meanwhile am assured that my gear is well protected. Oh, and don't forget to put a businesscard in your bag. In case someone finds it, they're able to contact you !!!! Rgds Ulev Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
!Nomad64 Posted February 7, 2011 Share #25 Posted February 7, 2011 I also wanted a bag that didn't look like a camera bag, so I ended with two: a Billingham Hadley original in black 'n tan for those times when I wear a bit more formal clothes and a brown Tenba messenger for my everyday. I also use this latter as a real work commuting bag, therefore I'm very used to it and I do not think too much about the contents when I take it out for shooting. And it has plenty of room for other stuff. I think that further to a discrete appearance, also one's attitude does matter. Being relaxed and apparently not caring about the bag will make me look as one amongst thousands of commuters. Being stiff with an arm constantly protecting the bag might attract unwanted attentions on this latter. Cheers, Bruno Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rick Posted February 8, 2011 Share #26 Posted February 8, 2011 I Being relaxed and apparently not caring about the bag will make me look as one amongst thousands of commuters. Being stiff with an arm constantly protecting the bag might attract unwanted attentions on this latter.Cheers, Bruno May I suggest trying a pair of matching pumps and walking with a self assured gate, sort of a model-on-the-runway sort of stride - sure to distract attention from one's hand bag. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
IkarusJohn Posted February 8, 2011 Share #27 Posted February 8, 2011 Advertisement (gone after registration) I guess my Billingham will just get better while aging and meanwhile am assured that my gear is well protected. I carry my M9 with 50 lux attached, and three additional lenses (one in a chalk bag) in my black Combination bag. When we drive, it sits on the floor between the two front seats, and the dog has found it makes a great headrest. Haven't noticed a smell, but it has a slightly dusty, used look about it! Great space and protection, and not a label in sight. A colleague also assumed it was a "manbag" when I brought it into the office. He was surprised when he saw what was inside! Very discrete, though I suppose a manbag is more likely to be stolen than a camera bag ... Cheers John Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
wda Posted February 8, 2011 Share #28 Posted February 8, 2011 Hi, I'm new here, ... The only bag I have seen that looks a possibility is: Artisan&Artist* Bags As it looks like a normal messenger bag, but I'm struggling to find anything else. So I thought - why not just shove a padded insert into a normal messenger bag? ... Thanks! D & C, you are making your mark in this place! You mention Artisan & Artist bags but pass on to getting just an insert. I have an ACAM 3000 and find it excellent for what you describe. There is only one place in the UK where you can buy these, i.e. London. But I searched all threads which mentioned this range of bags, invited current views, measured my kit and compared with the published dimensions of the A & A bags; consulted the shop manager by telephone and bought my bag sight unseen. Happily it has become my No.1 bag for days out and holidays. It is soft and supple, does not cry out its purpose and hugs the body. It may not be as waterproof as some might need, but even that negative can be overcome by evading rain or using a plastic wrap. (I seldom find the need to trudge around looking for pictures in pouring rain!) Try first if you can; but don't be put off if you can't! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
!Nomad64 Posted February 9, 2011 Share #29 Posted February 9, 2011 May I suggest trying a pair of matching pumps and walking with a self assured gate, sort of a model-on-the-runway sort of stride - sure to distract attention from one's hand bag. :D Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charlie Johnson Posted February 12, 2011 Share #30 Posted February 12, 2011 Second hand nappy bag from ebay! Nothing cool about it. They are padded and no-one is going to steal it in a hurry. Seriously. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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