Originally posted by pentaxluv
Hi. I am new to this forum and I don't know much about camera bags. I am in search of a camera bag for my husband, but I don't know which ones are the best. (snip) What is the difference between Lowepro and Tamrac? (snip) I am specifically interested in backpacks. (snip)
Lets be honest here. When it comes to the more expensive, brand-name, bags, there are very few differences in quality, suitability of materials, construction, workmanship, and so on. In the end, it really comes down to the preference of the user, with nearly everyone having their own unique opinion as to the "perfect" bag.
If your husband is like most, he will go through several bags before finally settling on the one he prefers best. Most photographers (who've been at it for any length of time) have several unused bags stored away in closets, each claiming those bags will be used at some point in the future. Many also resort to different bags for different occasions (an everyday bag, a travel bag, etc). My everyday "go" bag is a
Tamrac Expedition 5 backpack, but I also use a number of other bags, hard cases, and plastic storage boxes for other items (tools, location lighting equipment, props, etc).
So where does all this leave you? In the end, you may want to simply acknowledge the difficulty in choosing a bag and let your husband decide for himself. At least that would be my recommendation. If that's simply not an option, take a good look at the Tamrac backpack mentioned in the previous paragraph, chosen because it was the smallest backpack that would hold the K10D (with grip attached), while still allowing for some accessories. It can also be easily expanded in the future with accessory pouches. I also especially like the small (optional) pouches on the shoulder straps for a cellphone and MP3 player. Good luck.
stewart