The search for the perfect camera bag

I've been carrying a camera around with me regularly since 1980 or so. From heavy metal twin reflex monsters to palm-sized HD video recorders, and yes, everything in between, I've "bagged 'em" all. I've stuck pricy cameras into flimsy canvas bags, and dragged 20+ pounds of gear with me across oceans in elaborate, wheeled enclosures. What have I learned?

1. If you have a good variety of kit (multiple cameras, lenses and accessories) You need more than one camera bag. Some times you'll just want to toss your SLR into a sling bag along with a spare set of batteries and extra memory cards, and at other times you'll need to include spare lenses, camera bodies, and more. One size does NOT fit all circumstances. A sensible set might include a sling bag, an over the shoulder intermediate bag, and a wheeled (the ability to convert to back pack style is very useful) bag with lots of padding.

2. Resist bringing every piece of kit that you own when you are traveling, even if you have a car to stash it in. You rarely need it all, so be selective and make wise decisions based on your location, shooting needs and the safety of the environment. Your shoulders and back will thank you, especially when you are no longer a "junior photographer".

3. Don't scrimp and try to save money by buying a cheap but snazzy-looking bag. You've invested a fair amount of cash in your gear, and hopefully your insurance, so don't play roulette by gambling on the reliability of an inferior bag.

4. DO NOT overstuff your bag. Zippers on camera bags are generally heavy duty, but if the bag is bulging, and you need someone to help you zip it, it's not going to hold. I know a photographer who lost his gear in this manner-the camera was a goner when the zipper simply gave way, and the contents spilled out with velocity.

5. Never abandon your bag! I have a friend who lost his bag when it was stolen right from beneath his feet at a lunch counter. Even if it's right next to you, hook a strap under your chair leg, or around your own leg. This is another reason to be economical when you pack your bag--endlessly carrying around kit that you will not be using can be very fatiguing, and downright annoying.

6. Toss some weird, useful stuff in a small pocket of your bag; a flashlight, small tool kit, memo pad and pens, a bean bag (emergency mini tripod), paper clips, safety pins, tape, gloves, etc.   I also carry a copy of the "photographer's bill of rights" and a set of model releases with me at all times.