When I’m on the road, I often use the “bag within a bag” approach to carrying a camera so I can keep a low profile in urban settings. This is particularly important when exploring parts of a city that I’m not familiar with.
In this situation, I’ll work with a smaller camera, such as an Olympus E-PL2 and a handful of lenses. In addition to being easier to pack, the micro four/thirds body attracts less attention because it doesn’t look like an “expensive pro camera.” Acting like a tourist adds further to the effect.
Lowepro Exchange Messenger (left) and ILC Classic 50 with Olympus E-PL2 camera and 17mm pancake lens.
A typical kit might be an ILC Classic 50 holding the E-PL2 that is tucked inside an Exchange Messenger. I position the ILC 50 standing upright inside the Exchange Messenger, like a lens case. I keep the ILC unbuckled, but do keep the lid closed using the hook-and-loop fastener. If I need the camera quickly, I just pull back the flap on the Exchange Messenger, then grab the camera out of the ILC Classic.
As I’m walking around, I look like a guy with a small messenger bag. Yet, there’s enough room inside for a light jacket or lunch next to the camera bag.
You can use many different combinations for a similar set up. The idea is not attract attention to yourself, yet still have the protection you need for your gear.
Derrick Story is the Photography Evangelist for Lowepro.
I just bought the exchange messenger and a Canon S95. The bag is a bit disappointing, very little padding, and to carry anything larger such as a keyboard or iPad means the velcro dividers must be removed, this leaves one open space in the bag for stuff to roll around in.
However, the size is nice.
Great idea! I actually do something similar with my camera by keeping in in a separate but secure pouch inside my Ogio Hip Hop messenger bag.
I keep it in the middle zippered compartment – zippers toward me, not to the opposite end – along with my netbook and other gear. It definitely keeps me incognito when out and about.
Question: how would you do a similar set up and include a tripod?