Best photography shoulder bags: 6 top options tested and rated

Looking for the right mix of style and substance when you pack your camera for a shoot? We test six shoulder bags for photography that’ll carry plenty of kit but also look great.

Best photography shoulder bags: 01 Billingham 307

Price: £300/$500 – www.billingham.co.uk

The classy 307 is beautifully made from weatherproof canvas, with leather accents and handles. The main compartment’s aluminium and fibreglass rim holds the bag open for access. There’s space for a large SLR and attached lens, plus two to three more lenses. Two generous front pockets can swallow a couple of flashguns and smaller accessories.

VERDICT

We say: Lives up to Billingham’s reputation.

Score: 5/5

SEE MORE: Best photo backpack – 6 top options tested and rated

Best photography shoulder bags: 02 Domke Chronicle

Price: From £270/$300 – www.tiffen.com

This is a clever design. Expandable side pockets help keep the bag compact, yet there’s space inside for a large SLR body and up to four lenses, with fast access via a zip slot. Velcro silencing for the main flap keeps you inconspicuous. The bag comes in weatherproof black, khaki or military green; prices vary considerably according to fabric.

VERDICT

We say: Stylish and versatile.

Score: 5/5

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Best photography shoulder bags: 03 Jill-e Jack Camera Messenger

Price: £200/$200 – www.jill-e.com

The Jack can certainly handle a lot of kit. It can hold a couple of SLR bodies and three or four lenses inside its spacious main compartment, and a separate pocket can hold a 15-inch laptop. Front and side pockets give plenty of accessory storage. The downside is that this is the bulkiest bag of the bunch; it can get awkward on crowded streets.

VERDICT

We say: If only it was more comfortable…

Score: 4/5

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Best photography shoulder bags: 04 Manfrotto Pro Shoulder Bag 20

Price: £125/$150 – www.manfrotto.co.uk

Its basic style may look drab next to more retro-chic options, but this bag packs plenty of practicality. Its slim size is ideal for the city, yet there’s space for a large SLR with lens, plus three or four extra lenses, accessories and a tablet, all well-protected. Like the Domke, this has a top slot for fast access, plus a rain cover. The wide strap is kind on your shoulder.

VERDICT

We say: This bag nails the basics brilliantly.

Score: 5/5

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Best photography shoulder bags: 05 Oberwerth München

Price: £442/$700 – www.oberwerth.com

The hand-made München exudes quality in every stitch. The hard-wearing materials give decent weather and scuff protection, while a removable cushioned insert protects your kit. Space is at a premium, though: it’s a squeeze to store a full-frame SLR and two lenses. At least there’s a pair of front pockets to provide a home for accessories.

VERDICT

We say: Fine if style is a priority.

Score: 4/5

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Best photography shoulder bags: 06 Think Tank Retrospective 40

Price: £170/$220 – www.thinktankphoto.com

Want a more casual-looking design? This bag’s washed canvas exterior should be ideal. But the soft feel makes the bag squashy, while gaps at either end of the flap leave your kit open to the elements. There’s room for your SLR with attached lens, plus three largish lenses. If the side pockets aren’t enough, optional pouches can be attached.

VERDICT

We say: Not the safest option.

Score: 3/5

SEE MORE: A layman’s guide to photo backpacks

3 things to consider when looking for the perfect shoulder bag

1 Size matters

Fill a big bag and it’ll be a pain in the neck after a day’s shooting; but buy one that’s too small, and you won’t have room for the essentials.

2 Instant access

Missing a crucial shot when you can’t get at your SLR fast enough just won’t do. Make sure that your choice of bag can be opened in a hurry.

3 Rain check

Most bags offer weather protection, but some are sealed better than others, and may also come with an extra rain cover.

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