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​Field Test: Think Tank Photo Digital Holster 150 – Think Big

8/6/2019

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PictureDigital Holster 150, from Think Tank Photo - designed to hold an ultra-long lens attached to the camera for a quick grab. Photo courtesy Think Tank Photo.
Camera holsters are designed with one aim: to hold a DSLR with attached lens ready for a quick grab. The design concept makes sense – for a small outfit. But what about a camera with a humongous lens attached?
 
Let’s cut to the chase. The Digital Holster 150, from Think Tank Photo, is big for its ilk. This bag will carry a DSLR with 150-600mm zoom lens (or equivalent) attached. So how well does it serve that purpose? Read on...


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​Review: Think Tank Photo’s Vision 15 Shoulder Bag

4/26/2019

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PictureThink Tank Photo's Vision 15 shoulder bag. Courtesy Think Tank Photo.
​Photo backpacks aren’t for everyone or every occasion. Even hardened backpack users find themselves turning to a shoulder bag or sling bag to carry their precious camera gear. And if you’re looking for a modestly priced shoulder bag that also delivers on quality, then a good starting place is Think Tank Photo. And you might want to consider the new Vision series.


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Test Report: Think Tank Photo’s Retrospective 10 V2.0 Shoulder Bag – Same Chic Styling, Look and Feel, with Added Features

9/12/2018

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PictureCourtesy Think Tank Photo.
​There is something about Think Tank’s Retrospective shoulder bags that has to be experienced personally.
 
I’d previously tested the leather version of the original series and found it eminently suited to my trip to New York. (Read about it here.) But that was a small bag that I chose because it would fit inside my luggage.  And even before that I’d worked with the original Retrospective. Yet another small bag.
 
This time I thought I’d go for something bigger, but not quite as spacious as MindShift Gear’s Exposure 15. And I certainly wasn’t about to tote around an even bigger shoulder bag, although, if you are of that mind, there are two larger versions of this bag available.
 
I was especially curious to see what improvements were made to this series. I would not be disappointed, though I did find room for improvement.

What’s Old Is New Again
As the saying goes. And that easily applies here. The basic design of the Retrospective revolves around a soft, fabric outer shell with a stylish distressed look– specifically, cotton canvas that is water-repellant. The bag is lightweight, yet ruggedly constructed. And for those heavy downpours, it comes with a seam-sealed rain cover. The wide strap webbing encircles the bag, for a more assuring support (without having to deal with connectors), with the addition of a non-slip, shoulder pad.
 
After reading my review of that earlier Retrospective, it makes me wonder why I gave it away, but one only has room for so many bags. When a new one comes through the door, an older one goes out, which makes my friends happy campers, knowing they get a camera bag worthy of their expensive gear.
 
BTW – just heard from the recipient of that bag, who wrote, and I quote: “I liked your review and the bag as well.”
 
Since I no longer own the earlier versions, I have to go on memory and my review when comparing them. Aside from the obvious difference – size (and, to a certain extent, weight), the V2 version offers the same practical advantages, with a fully customizable interior (additional padded dividers included). And there are roomy pockets front and back, including an organizer pocket. The new version makes room for a full-size tablet as well (or a tiny MacBook).

Who Should Use the Retrospective 10 V2.0 ?
Travel photographers, street photographers, photojournalists and documentary/news photographers.
 
Capsule Comments
It’s stylish and practical, and designed to last. And reasonably priced. The new luggage handle pass-through is great when traveling with a wheeled suitcase.

How much is it?
Retrospective 10 V2.0 (tested): $169.75 
Retrospective 5 V2.0: $149.75 
Retrospective 7 V2.0: $ 164.75 
Retrospective 20 V2.0:  $179.75 
Retrospective 30 V2.0: $199.75

Where can I get more info/order this product? (Click link.)
Retrospective 10 V2.0

 
Manufacturer:
Think Tank Photo

The Handy Water Bottle Pocket
A water bottle pocket has been added. I would have preferred a stretch mesh pocket, but I can see Think Tank’s thinking behind the design they used. A nylon pocket would not be in keeping with the retro-canvas styling of the bag. Either way, it now means you don’t need to add an accessory pouch just for a water bottle. You can, however, add a lens case by way of the loop on the flip side of the bag (more on Think Tank’s new lens cases in a later review).
 
You could hold a lens in this side pocket, but I would hesitate to do so for any length of time. There’s no real way to secure the pocket, and a lens could slip out when you’re not paying attention. You know what would have been cool? A sealable lid, via Velcro, a zip, or even a snap or clasp. But, again, it could come in handy when changing lenses, if not already occupied by a water bottle. (Here’s a thought. Attach a carabiner to the opposite side and your water bottle to that, if the water bottle provides some means by which you could do that.)
 
The one thing that bugs me, and I found it to be somewhat of a nuisance on Think Tank's Signature 13 as well, is the tuck-away interior flap that has been added to the new Retrospective bag. As I’d commented previously, I would have preferred a double-zip system. But I’m not sure that would have helped. And here’s why… The pliable shell of the Retrospective, while imbuing the bag with that retro-chic feel, makes it difficult to close the flap.
 
I recommend either not zipping the inner lid all the way once you arrive at your destination, or not using it entirely. If you take the latter route, it means using the noisy and somewhat resistant Velcro system to keep the bag closed. There are noise-silencers built in, but using them (and not closing the inner flap) means you leave the bag entirely open – not a smart move in a crowded bus or subway, or while dashing around town, or putting your bag down on an uneven surface where it may topple over. So you’ll have to use one or the other once you start shooting. But let me make myself clear: Until  you arrive at your destination, unless you expect to stop along the way to shoot, use both means to keep the contents secured. You’ll keep dust and dirt out, as well as prying hands.
 
It may be picayune to quibble over this, and I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it, one way or the other. But, hey, I like to quibble over the small stuff. If the world smelled entirely of roses, we wouldn’t have carnations. Okay, not sure what that means, but maybe you do. Anyway, none of that matters in the long run. The bag does the job it’s designed to do.
​
Conclusions
Oddly enough, I find myself lately taking a shoulder/sling bag out, even on my nature walks, preferring it over my backpacks for immediate accessibility to my gear, provided I’m not toting a heavy load or very long lenses, and don’t need to carry a trail kit or light jacket.
 
Would I use this new Retrospective V2.0? In a heartbeat. Regrettably, I miscalculated. I thought I’d be able to fit my D500 with attached Tamron 100-400, but it didn’t prove to be a comfy fit. A deeper bag would have done the trick. So I’ll stick with my Exposure 15 for that rig. It wouldn’t be a problem if I carried body and lens separately, but I prefer having my gear at the ready – hence my rationale for using a shoulder bag in the first place.
 
All in all, as with its progenitors in the Retrospective lineup, the Retrospective V2.0 looks classy, feels classy, and, in short, is a class act. You’ll look good with this bag hanging off your shoulder or sling-style and you’ll feel good knowing your gear is well protected and within your grasp when the moment counts.
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Test Report: MindShift Gear Impresses Us with Two New Outdoor Bags - BackLight 18L Photo Backpack and Exposure 15 Shoulder/Sling Bag

5/6/2018

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When it comes to outdoor photography, we’re used to seeing photo backpacks from MindShift Gear, but we usually turn to sister company Think Tank Photo for our shoulder bags. Think Tank does have some nice shoulder bags, but they’re really not optimized for the great outdoors, which is also true of their backpacks – great utility and construction, but aimed more at the streetshooter, than the nature photographer, which also applies to their shoulder bags.
 
Well, not surprisingly MindShift decided to divert a little bit of their attention to the shoulder bag, while not sitting idle where backpacks were concerned, and introduced a one-two punch in the new Exposure bag, practically alongside the smaller BackLight.
 ​

Where can I get more info, tech specs & order this product? (click on a bag)
BackLight 18L 
Exposure 15 
 
Manufacturer:
MindShift Gear
 
How much is it?
BackLight 18L: $199.99
Exposure 15: $169.99

A Quick Look at the New MindShift BackLight 18L
I’ve previously written extensively about the BackLight series, which, until now, consisted of two larger bags, first the 26L, followed by the 36L – the model number reflecting capacity, in liters. That makes this bag half the size of the largest version, at least in carrying capacity.
 
I still use the 26L, having gifted the 36L to a friend who routinely carries a load of gear, and when the 18L arrived, I thought it would be too small for my Tamron 150-600mm G2. I first tried the 18L out with my Nikon D500 attached to the new Tamron 100-400 (look for a review of this lens shortly). It was a perfect fit. Next came what I thought would be the impossible task.
 
On its own, the 150-600 settled in comfortably. But could I say the same when attached to the camera? Well, I did have to move a couple of the padded divers out of the way, but I managed a good fit. Of course, that shift in the partitions negated the use of the other half of the bag for a second camera with attached lens. Well, I could always carry a second body and lens separately – plenty of room for that.
 
In the backpack's factory configuration, when situating the camera with 100-400 attached (at the top of the bag, lens downward), there was plenty of room for that second body with attached lens (cradled from the bottom of the bag, lens upward). Long and short, I’ll still use my 26L for that monster glass and relegate the 18L for the D500/100-400 combo riding side-saddle with, say, a D610/90mm macro attached – and still have room for a Nissin flash.
 
You can read my earlier reviews by clicking these links:
 
BackLight 26L review 
 
BackLight 36L review 
 
I should point out that I was so happy with the BackLight 18L that I gave my trusty TrailScape 18L to a friend in favor of the new bag. I prefer the interior layout of the BackLight 18L, considering it will hold two cameras with attached lenses right from the get-go.

MindShift’s Exposure 15 Shoulder Bag
When it comes to shoulder bags, my preference runs to smaller bags. I find it more fatiguing when wearing even a small shoulder bag or sling bag than when carrying a fully loaded backpack. Still, a shoulder bag does come in handy on occasion. You won't carry a backpack to a formal occasion, or even when visiting friends. Not to mention, it's so much easier to stow a shoulder bag on the floor underneath  or alongside your seat when dining.
 
I already own and use the perfect shoulder bag, Think Tank’s Signature 13 – elegant styling, functional, and small enough to carry just what I need for streetshooting. So I wasn’t about to make that bag redundant with the Exposure 13. Besides, the larger Exposure bag sported more spacious pockets – and I love pockets.
 
Still, the Signature bag lacks one thing that, to my mind, would have made it perfect: a waist belt to take the weight off my shoulder. It would have been very easy for Think Tank to have fitted the bag with a removable waist belt, but that probably would have run counter to the fashion statement that bag makes.
 
Fast forward to the Exposure series. These bags don’t feature a waist belt, but they come with the next best thing: a security tether, or what MindShift calls a "cross-body stabilizer strap." This keeps the bag from slipping off your shoulder – or swinging around and in your way when you bend down to shoot something low to the ground. It also prevents someone from pulling the bag off your shoulder. You can also wear the bag sling-style, which is how I’d been using it, and how it was primarily designed to be worn. The neoprene shoulder pad is sewn in and runs much of the length of the strap, rendering the strap well suited to either mode of portage.
 
This bag also features new materials that make it practically impervious to the elements, and the lid has flaps at either end to keep out dust, flying debris, and rain/snow. It does not have a zipped inner lid, a trademark of the Signature bags. However, the Exposure uses only a single plastic buckle for fast access. Some Velcro-type closure system wouldn’t have hurt, so you wouldn’t have needed to constantly snap the buckle shut. It’s a noisy prospect when you’re trying to remain quiet while focusing on birds or other wildlife.
 
As for the interior of the bag, it too lacks the finesse of the Signature bag, but, having said that, it does provide the needed protection. I was able to fit my D500 with attached 100-400, standing the rig lens downward inside the bag. With a shorter lens, the camera could have been supported by the dividers along both sides. Still, even with this long lens, the flap closed without any unruly bulge. BTW – carrying this combo was another reason, perhaps the main one, I’d opted for the larger Exposure 15. The Exposure 13 would have been too small.
 
I should also note that the Exposure 15 will carry a 15” laptop, along with a tablet. There are numerous other pockets, along with a luggage-handle pass-through so you can piggyback the bag on your roller luggage. A tripod is carried at the bottom – straps included. Also included is a rain cover, not that you’ll need it in a light rain, since the bag is sufficiently weatherproofed on its own. Oh, and if that’s not enough, there’s also a water-bottle pocket that will comfortably hold your average-size water bottle.

​Conclusions
One advantage a shoulder or sling bag has over a backpack is that it allows immediate access to your camera gear. That precisely is what drives me to use a bag such as the Exposure 15 on occasion. With a backpack, you normally have to find a place to lay the bag down when it comes time to access or stow gear.
 
Well, not so with the BackLight series. You can still wear the bag, open the rear (main) flap, and access your gear. On paper, at least. As I found out with the earlier iterations of this design, this doesn’t really fit my shooting routine – and a reader concurred vis-à-vis her style of shooting. I find it faster and easier to lay the bag down. And if the ground is wet or muddy, then I’ll simply stow the lenses and flash I may later need in accessory pouches or in the pockets of a photo vest. MindShift may not have a photo vest (why not, guys?), but they do have a full line of pouches for pretty much anything you need to access on the trails.

I found myself using both bags in a variety of situations, not least of which was for bird photography. Both bags are thoughtfully designed, practical and durable, to say the least. And each should easily fit in the overhead bin, if not under the seat, on most commercial aircraft.

Who Should Use the BackLight 18L and Exposure 15?
Travel, nature, and wildlife photographers.
 
Capsule Comments
When traversing rough terrain or for long, strenuous hikes, the BackLight 18L is the clear choice, with its extra-comfy backpack harness system. On public conveyances, crowded streets, and travel involving a lot of walking on sidewalks or dirt paths in city, town, or village, the Exposure 15 shoulder bag would be my choice, for fast access, along with added security thanks to the tethered strap.

A rain cover is included with each bag, and both bags will carry a tripod, as well as a laptop (13" in BackLight 18; 15" in Exposure 15), plus tablet. And for those hot days, don't worry - each bag holds a water bottle.

​And, they are very reasonably priced for the top quality you're getting.
​
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Test Report: Think Tank Photo's Spectral 8 Shoulder Bag - Stylish and Practical

9/11/2017

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PictureSpectral 8. Courtesy Think Tank Photo.
​While the Spectral series from Think Tank Photo may not share the same elegance as this company’s Signature series, the new shoulder bags do weigh in with a couple of nice features I would have liked in the Signatures. On the other hand, a few of the trademark elements found in the Signature would have been welcome additions to this bag. (Click this link for my review of the Signature Series.)
 
Still, all in all, the new bags have much going for them. I chose to review the smallest of these, the Spectral 8, since it’s primarily aimed at the mirrorless camera (as well as compact DSLR) user and I wanted to address a market segment I tend to overlook. The two larger bags, Spectral 10 and Spectral 15, address more robust DSLRs, but without grips.

​The Exterior
The Spectral 8 has a fairly slim profile. There’s only one outside pocket on this bag beyond the cover flap – elastic mesh for a small water bottle. The larger bags in the series have a full width/full depth outer sleeve as well. Not sure why this was omitted on the smallest bag. You can never have too many outside pockets.
 
There’s also a small padded handle on top, but the main mode of carry is obviously the shoulder strap. Sadly, the Spectral series returns to the more conventional sliding pad, in contrast to the narrow, elongated sewn-in-place pad on the Signature. The pad is wide and stiff, but you can still wear the bag cross-body (sling-style). However, the non-slip strip could have been extended for a larger gripping surface.
 
In contrast to the Signature series, the Spectral bags can carry a tripod. A pair of tripod straps are included. They attach on the bottom. Granted, this does make setting the bag down on any surface somewhat cumbersome, but it sure beats having to carry a tripod by hand or in a separate bag. You’d do best with compact tripods, especially for this small bag.
 

Where can I get more info?
Think Tank Photo Spectral Series
 
Manufacturer (use this link to order):
Think Tank Photo


​Going Undercover
The cover flap has a magnetic clasp. Nice touch. Pull a tab to release; just drop the flap back down and it should close on its own. I would have preferred this mode of closure to the metal buckles used on the Signature, although it doesn’t reflect the same level of chic. (I’m always afraid the metal buckles will come crashing down on the camera’s LCD when I use the Signature.)
 
Lift the flap and you come to a small outer sleeve that will hold a cell phone of any popular size. Behind that is a zippered pocket designed to hold an 8” tablet, or accessories, such as maps, a guide book, and such. Sleeves within the pocket will hold spare batteries and a memory card wallet. (The larger bags will carry 10” tablets, and the 15” bag will carry a laptop.)
 
Before we go inside, we encounter a secondary cover flap. As on the Signature, this one is zippered and designed to keep out prying hands, as well as the elements. Unlike the one on the Signature, it’s not pleated (which would have been nice – to accommodate lenses that protrude just a bit when standing on end).
 
Open this second flap to access your gear. You can leave it open and fastened to the cover flap via a Velcro-style hook-and-loop attachment, or tuck it into a sleeve inside the cover flap. To be practical, don’t tuck this inner lid away. Instead, use that additional pocket as a “secret” compartment for valuables (it closes with hook-and-loop fastener). By the way, I prefer this arrangement to the one used in the Signature bags.
 
If you use a sling strap that fastens to the camera’s tripod socket, you may be able to leave it attached, since there is enough room for it.
 
One convenience feature carried over from the Signature line of bags is the trolley sleeve (luggage-handle pass-through). This lets you easily piggyback the bag on your roller luggage.
 
​The Interior
The inside of the Spectral may not be as tricked out as that of the Signature series, but it certainly is functional.
 
The bag easily supports a body with attached lens, and because the camera with lens is suspended from a platform consisting of two padded dividers, it’s an easy grab on the run. There’s also room for an extra lens or two or three (depending on size), and possibly an external flash. There is certainly room to squeeze in a sub-compact flash.
 
Additional dividers let you stack small items. All the dividers are movable, making the interior fully customizable.


How much is it?
$99.75/Spectral 8
 
$119.75/Spectral 10
 
$139.75/Spectral 15


In Use
I gave the bag to a friend with an Olympus mirrorless outfit. She cradled the super-compact Pen E-PL6 with attached 14-42mm lens atop the supporting dividers and stowed the 40-150mm lengthwise bottom left. The 9mm fisheye found a secure berth as well, along with a variety of accessories, including a sling strap.
 
Her one complaint: the bag was too wide for a camera this compact. But she found a way around that, securing the camera in place with one or two pouches filled with accessories. Still, from her expression, she would have been happier with a slimmer bag.
 
Next came the Manfrotto Compact Action tripod.
 
I attached the tripod straps (included) to the bottom of the bag and my friend fastened the tripod in place. As she shouldered the bag and started walking around with it, she did note that the tripod didn’t appear to be held as securely as she would have liked. In fact, she’d resolved to carry the tripod separately, just to be safe. Perhaps, with time, we could have figured out a way to secure the tripod to the bag that would have made her more comfortable, but time was short and we had to be somewhere.
 
I should note that she otherwise found the bag a good fit, even when worn sling fashion. My initial impression was that the stiff, wide shoulder pad might lead to some discomfort, but she found it quite comfortable. The Spectral 8 suited her well.

​​Who Should Use This?
Amateur photographers; photojournalists, news photographers, documentary photographers, street photographers, and travel photographers carrying a light load; the Spectral 8 in particular is ideally suited to mirrorless and compact DSLR systems with small to modest-size lenses (larger Spectral bags for pro-size DSLRs without grip).

Capsule Comments
Affordable, well designed, and somewhat fashionable; a practical shoulder bag; weather-resistant on its own, with rain cover (included) for serious downpours; Spectral 8 is well suited to a mirrorless or compact DSLR system with a smattering of lenses, albeit a bit roomy for sub-compact mirrorless bodies.

Conclusions
Unlike the much more costly Signature series with its leather accents, the comfortably-priced Spectral series is low-key. Yet the Spectral does carry a certain degree of panache with it.
 
More important than looks is functionality. The bag wears well and is easy to work out of.

KEY FEATURES per Think Tank Photo
  • Tablet pocket (Spectral 8: 8”, Spectral 10 & 15: 10”)
  • Phone pocket sized for today’s large phones
  • Tripod attachment points and straps
  • Highest quality materials (metal hardware, YKK RC Fuse zippers, 420D velocity nylon) and the highest quality construction
  • Luggage handle pass-through
  • Comfortably padded non-slip shoulder strap for all day comfort
  • Customizable divider layout with dividers for stacking short lenses
  • Water bottle pocket
  • Seam-sealed rain cover included
  • 15” Laptop compartment (Spectral 15 only)
 
 
MATERIALS per Think Tank Photo
Exterior: All fabric exterior treated with durable water resistant coating while fabric underside is coated with polyurethane for superior water resistance. The bag also has YKK RC Fuse (abrasion resistant) zippers, 420D velocity nylon, double PU coated P600D, heavy-duty nylon tarpaulin, UltraMesh pockets, antique plated metal hardware, Fidlock mangetic buckle, 350G 3D air mesh, 3-ply bonded nylon thread
 
Interior: PE board reinforced removable closed cell foam dividers, 200D liner, PU backed nylex liner, 2x PU coated nylon 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, 3-ply bonded nylon thread
 
 
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  per Think Tank Photo
Spectral 8
  • Internal Dimensions: 10.2” W x 7.5” H x 4.9” D (26 x 19 x 12.5 cm)
  • Exterior Dimensions: 11” W x 8.3” H x 6.1” D (28 x 21.2 x 15.5 cm)
  • Tablet Compartment: 8.3” W x 5.5” H x 0.6” D (21 x 14 x 1.5 cm)
  • Weight: 1.7 lb (0.8 kg)
 
Spectral 10
  • Internal Dimensions: 13” W x 9.1” H x 4.9” D (33 x 23 x 12.5 cm)
  • Exterior Dimensions: 13.8” W x 10” H x 6.1” D (35 x 25.5 x 15.5 cm)
  • Tablet Compartment: 10.4” W x 7.6” H x 0.6” D (26.5 x 19.2 x 1.5 cm)
  • Weight: 2.2 lb (1.1 kg)
 
Spectral 15
  • Internal Dimensions: 15.3” W x 9.8” H x 5.1” D (39 x 25 x 13 cm)
  • Exterior Dimensions: 16.1” W x 12.6” H x 6.3” D (41 x 32 x 16 cm)
  • Tablet Compartment: 12.6” W x 7.6” H x 0.8” D (32 x 19.2 x 2 cm)
  • Laptop Compartment: 14.1” W x 9.6” H x 1” D (36 x 24.5 x 2.5 cm)
  • Weight: 2.5 lb (1.2 kg)
 
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Field Report: Think Tank Photo Signature 13 Shoulder Bag – Elegance and Functionality Combined

4/11/2017

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​There are occasions when even a hard-nosed photo backpack user like myself must resort to a shoulder bag. In these times, sadly, backpacks may be seen as something other than the innocent carriers of your photo gear. There’s even one institution here in Chicago, namely Shedd Aquarium, where I’ve had the unfortunate experience of a security person literally ripping through my MindShift Gear photo pack to gain access, instead of simply using the zippers as intended – or asking me to open the bag. Happily, no harm done, except for some frayed nerves on this side of the inspection table (good thing MindShift uses high-quality hardware that resists such mistreatment). It was more intrusive than past TSA inspections I’d experienced (although maybe not as bad as some recently reported).
 
In the past, I was very happy using my Think Tank Retrospective 5 Leather bag, although over time I’d come to realize the small size was both a boon and a bane, keeping me from carrying too much but often proving too small for anything more than the minimum of gear. Even a 15-30 f/2.8 or 70-300 attached to a DSLR was too much and the 24-70 f/2.8 on the camera just barely made it. So it was time to trade up.
 
Thankfully, the Signature series entered the scene. Here I had a choice between two sizes. And this time I opted for the larger bag for one very good reason: The bag was longer and deeper than the Retrospective, but it still maintained a slim profile. That would remove the temptation to overfill the bag and also meant it would ride comfortably at my side, without bulking out.
 
What’s more, as I was soon to find out, I could shift the bag around to my back when wearing it sling-fashion. Of course, as a shoulder bag, it lends itself nicely to being worn over the shoulder. In fact, this bag is almost perfect. Almost.
Stylish Design
Think Tank seems to have reinvented camera bag fabric when it came to the Signature series. This is a softly textured polyblend with the feel of finely woven wool. Unlike the Retrospective, this bag does not use Velcro-style hook-and-loop fasteners on the outside. In fact, I’d caution you to keep Velcro away from the exterior, as it may ruin that clean look (and, no, I didn’t test it, out of fear of ruining the bag). And if you’re wondering, the bag has been treated with a water-resistant finish. That aside, there is a rain cover included, which came in handy when I found myself pelted in a downpour.
 
Enhancing this bag’s sophisticated appearance are leather accents. Soft leather graces the bottom of the bag. And there is leather on the carrying handle and shoulder strap, as well as the fastener straps. The buckle fasteners are metal, not plastic, further heightening the impression of quality.
 
Advancing the impression that this is a well-crafted bag is this: There is not one stitch out of place, not one loose thread.

The Interior
This is where the Signature bag really shines, for the most part. The entire interior is Velcro-friendly. You can reposition the padded dividers to your heart’s content. Better still, they are more heavily padded than the typical Think Tank dividers. What’s more, the two central dividers are supportive enough to hold a camera upright, with attached lens facing downward. And if you feel you need more dividers, they’re included. I originally put these in storage, since I found the original set of dividers did the job well enough.
 
Two things I did not like about the interior centered on the bottom of the bag. Instead of one contiguous cushioning base, there are two, what are essentially, padded dividers lining the bottom. And the bag lacks a stabilizing bottom platform to help keep the bag’s shape and prevent a sagging bottom, while offering enhanced protection to gear. So, I pulled the three extra padded dividers from storage and lined the bottom of the bag with them. Now the bag is firmer at the base and offers even better protection for my gear.
 
Keep in mind that a soft-sided bag is intended to be pliable. A heavily padded, stiff outer shell would make the bag less convenient to carry. The back of this bag is the most heavily padded, enough so as to cushion you against bumps and practically prevent anything from bulging out intrusively. The front of the bag is more pliable, so keep the top of the camera to the front. That also places the grip on the right, for a quick grab.
 
There is enough room in the Signature 13 for me to keep a BlackRapid sling strap attached to my Nikon D610. BlackRapid straps tend to protrude more than most sling straps when attached to a camera body, which is why it’s worth noting.
 
A couple of more points worth noting. Unlike the Retrospective, the Signature bags feature an interior zippered lid. Keep this zipped when on the move, prior to reaching your destination or when in iffy spots to keep out prying hands.
 
In theory, the top flap fully covers the top of the bag. In practice, the sides bulk out just enough to leave a tiny bit of the interior exposed on each side. Which is why you may want to keep the inner lid zipped when moving about, or in situations where dirt or debris or errant water drops or snowflakes might enter the bag.
 
And speaking of this inner lid. I would have preferred two zippers to make it easier to open and close more rapidly. That aside, Think Tank thoughtfully designed it so that it could be attached to the main flap for quick opening when unzipped. And they’ve added another option: You can tuck the lid inside the bag, so it remains out of the way entirely. I prefer the first approach, since you can leave it attached to the main flap and still zip it open and closed. This inner lid, by the way, is pleated, making room for a lens that may stand taller than would ordinarily be accommodated.
In Use
At the outset, I loved that I had room to store a DSLR with attached lens on a dedicated support system (composed of two sturdy padded dividers, each with an overhang). You can position the overhanging lip facing inward or outward, depending on what you’ll be storing in the modules on either side. Keeping the camera/lens in the center also provided better balance.
 
Another aspect of the bag that I truly admired is the shoulder strap. Conventional shoulder straps use an extra-wide pad that slides all over the place and has to be constantly readjusted.
 
The padded section of the Signature shoulder strap is just wide enough to be comfortable whether worn over the shoulder or sling-fashion. Beyond that, not only is it fixed in place but it also occupies much of the strap. So, you never find yourself having to adjust the shoulder pad. It’s simply there all the time.

Where can I get more info?
Think Tank Photo Signature 13
 
Manufacturer (use this link to order):
Think Tank Photo

How much is it?
$279
Who Should Use This?
Photojournalists, news photographers, documentary photographers; street photographers; travel photographers; pro and consumer alike.
 
Capsule Comments
Thoughtfully designed and fashionable; a thoroughly practical shoulder bag that can just as easily be carried as a sling bag.

Conclusions
For the most part, the bag is easy to use. The interior is fully adjustable. Think Tank has apparently spent considerable time rethinking their divider system, and I believe they’ve hit upon the ultimate solution.
 
I might quibble with one or two design elements, but on the whole Think Tank Photo has taken shoulder bag design to the next level in the Signature series. Even the outer fabric is a masterful touch. In fact, when wearing the bag slung around the back, I found I could bend over and the bag seemed to grip my back without sliding around – a problem ordinarily encountered with other bags. And the zippered inner lid is yet another smart feature.
 
In short, I like this bag so much that I look for opportunities to use it. And, again, keep in mind, it’s the perfect solution where a photo backpack may be verboten. Think Tank will have to really go out of their way to design a bag that would make me want to replace this bag. The Signature 13 is the shoulder bag I’ve been waiting for. Gladly the wait is over.


KEY FEATURES per Think Tank Photo (with my comments in italics)
  • Modern wool-like fabric that is soft to the touch and stands-up to everyday use.
  • Full-grain leather bottom and detailing, plus antique finished metal hardware.
  • Zippered flap provides full closure and security to the main compartment, or tucks away when not in use.
  • Dedicated laptop/tablet compartment: Signature 10 fits a 10” tablet; Signature 13 fits a 13” laptop. (In the Signature 13, you can tuck the tablet in the sleeve dedicated to the inner lid and leave the larger laptop sleeve for a thin notebook.)
  • Secure clasps on front flap with one-handed operation. (Be extra careful with the metal fasteners as they may come in contact with the exposed LCD on back of the camera or with exposed glass when a lens is positioned front end up without a lens cap.)
  • Dedicated phone pocket fits up to an iPhone 6s+ or S7 Edge.
  • Wide handle pass-through for attaching to rolling luggage.
  • Large front pocket for an extra strobe, rain cover or small book.
  • Long, cushioned neoprene shoulder pad positions easily when worn cross-body (sling-style, that is).
  • Zippered front pocket provides security for small items and includes a built-in organizer for pens and business cards. (There’s also a zippered sleeve on the back, where I keep the rain cover for easy access.)
  • Quilted Velex dividers can be customized to fit gear.
  • Shorter dividers can be made into shelves to stack short lenses. (I try to avoid stacking stuff, for easier access.)
  • Dividers and bottom foam can be removed for a completely collapsible bag.
  • Although the bag’s outer fabric is treated with water resistant coating, a seam-sealed rain cover is included for downpour conditions.
 
GEAR CAPACITY per Think Tank Photo (with my comments in italics)
Signature 13
  • 1 standard-size DSLR with mid-range zoom attached plus 2–3 additional lenses. (I was able to squeeze in a D610 with Tamron 70-300mm zoom attached; a flash easily fits in the main section in a fully upright position, with room for one more lens.)
  • 13” laptop fits inside a dedicated compartment
 
Signature  10
  • 1 standard size DSLR with 3–4 prime lenses and accessories
  • A complete Mirrorless camera system with 3–4 lenses and accessories
  • 10” tablet fits inside a dedicated compartment
 
MATERIALS per Think Tank Photo
Exterior: All fabric exterior treated with durable water resistant coating while fabric underside is coated with polyurethane for superior water resistance. The bag also has 240D wool-like 195G nylon/poly blend, full-grain leather, antique-plated metal hardware, highest quality YKK RC-Fuse zippers, 550D polyspun, nylon seatbelt webbing, neoprene, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.


Interior: 210D silver-toned nylon lining, polyurethane-backed quilted Velex liner and dividers, high-density closed-cell foam dividers, 2x polyurethane coated nylon 210T seam-sealed taffeta rain cover, nylon binding, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
 
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  per Think Tank Photo
Signature 13
  • Internal Dimensions: 13.3” W x 9.1” H x 5.1” D (34 x 23 x 13 cm)
  • Exterior Dimensions: 14.6” W x 10.4” H x 6.3” D (37 x 26.5 x 16 cm)
  • Laptop/Tablet Compartment: 13” W x 9.1” H x 1.2” D (33 x 23 x 3 cm)
  • Weight: 3.1 lbs. (1.4 kg)
 
Signature 10
  • Internal Dimensions: 11.8” W x 7.8” H x 5.1” D (30 x 20 x 13 cm)
  • Exterior Dimensions: 13” W x 9.1” H x 5.9” D (33 x 23 x 15 cm)
  • Tablet Compartment: 11.4” W x 7.8” H x 0.8” D (29 x 20 x 2 cm)
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs. (1.3 kg)
0 Comments

Field Review – Think Tank Photo’s Retrospective Leather 5 Elegantly Compact Shoulder Bag

12/11/2015

0 Comments

 
PictureThat's me wearing the Retrospective Leather 5 while shooting the full moon over the New York skyline from New Jersey. Photo ©Denis Finnin. All rights reserved.
Right off the top let me say that I’m not a shoulder-bag guy. In fact, I loathe shoulder bags. Want to know why? Look at any photographer who walks around stoop-shouldered from bearing the burden of a ton of gear on one shoulder. Even slung over the neck, it’s a wearisome weight to carry around. So why am I writing about Think Tank Photo's Retrospective Leather 5 shoulder bag, you ask?

Well, let me just add this. There is decidedly a place for a shoulder bag - for some people, on certain occasions. If I were a wedding photographer, I wouldn't want to show up at a wedding wearing the backpack I normally use. 
 
But I’m not a wedding photographer. In my role as nature/wildlife photographer and travel/street shooter, I head out these days with one of my MindShift Gear photo backpacks. When I have to travel light, as when I'm flying, I carry gear in my Think Tank Photo StreetWalker pack, because it’s compact yet holds a fair amount of gear - and it will fit under the airline seat in front of me. Provided I’m not carrying my clothes in a second, larger backpack, that is - which would be the case in this instance. Toting two backpacks just didn't make much sense. Which brings me to this compact shoulder bag.

My Camera Bag Solution 
For my recent trip to New York City, I needed a small camera bag, one that would easily fit inside the backpack. I wanted my hands free of any additional luggage and didn't want anything else hanging off my shoulder. What's more, if I'd decided to carry it separately, the bag had to be small enough to easily pass as my “personal” carry-on item when boarding the plane. 

That carry-on backpack, by the way, was originally a photo backpack from which I’d removed the padded insert. And, no, it’s not one from Think Tank Photo or MindShift Gear – I’d never relegate those packs to such lowly a task. I’d stopped using photo backpacks from other manufacturers to carry photo gear because I realized that they were not as comfortable or as practical or as protective of my gear as these packs from MindShift or Think Tank.

I knew of one bag that would fit my needs for this trip. My solution was Think Tank Photo’s Retrospective Leather 5, the smallest size in this series.
 
What I Had in Mind for This Bag
On this New York trip I was planning to carry my Nikon D610 with Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 VC lens attached. And this bag was the perfect size for that. I wasn’t planning to take extra lenses.

I often set out with just one lens to challenge myself to explore the different perspectives and viewpoints in my compositions this lens would allow. What I especially like about this 24-70mm lens is that it’s image-stabilized. And it’s a great all-purpose lens, especially under dim lighting conditions!
 
What’s more, I don’t like carrying body and lenses detached because that slows down your response time immeasurably. Yes, carrying separate components – body and lenses - would have allowed me to carry an extra lens – but then what happens when you have to put the camera away, especially in a rush? There would be no room, unless you detached the lens. So why start out at a deficit was my argument! Not to mention, you may not be in a dust-free or weather-conducive environment when it comes time to attach or change lenses, or somewhere that you’re comfy letting your guard down while messing with the camera.
 
Oddly enough, I still had room for one more key item: my flash. I was able to comfortably stuff my Nikon SB-700 into the outside front pocket without bulking the bag out much. Yes, there was room for the flash inside the bag, but I found it hindered quick access to the camera, and worse, got in the way when trying to replace the D610 inside the bag. This proved to be the best and most practical carrying solution, giving me easy access to camera and flash.

(I should also note that I wear a photo vest - a great way to carry lots of small stuff, including a pocket camera, while getting around carry-on restrictions, although it does go through the airport security scanner, along with my bags.)
 
Retrospective Leather 5 Key Features
The leather Retrospective is a more elegant version of the all-canvas version released several years back. Not that the original wasn’t stylish in its own right. Still, leather, especially when it’s of good quality, does have a nice ring to it. And it’s considerably more fashionable. The leather series comes in three sizes, whereas the original Retrospectives are available in numerous configurations.
 
Here are the key features, from a Think Tank Photo press release (with my comments/observations added).

  • Hook-and-loop “Sound Silencers” eliminate the noise of front flap hook and loop. (You can take this route and use the clasp, but I found it’s faster and easier to work with the hook-and-loop fasteners, if a bit noisier - but easily overlooked on a noisy New York City street. For quicker access maybe just silence one of the fasteners.)
  • High quality YKK zippers, metal hardware, leather accents, premium build. (The YKK zippers really do make a difference in any bag. There’s plenty of leather, so it’s more than just “accents.” From what I’ve read on the Internet, Dakota leather, which is used here and by BMW, is very durable. But don’t expect that heavy leather smell, which, frankly, I was looking forward to.)
  • Adjustable cushioned nonslip shoulder strap for all day comfort. (Works nicely! That said, I wear the bag sling-fashion, which is doable with a light load. The strap webbing goes all the way around. This level of support is especially important in the largest bag.)
  • Easily accessible front organizer with key tether. (I never use key tethers in a bag, but I can appreciate the organizer pocket. There are also side pockets that hug the bag – perfect for spare batteries, although batteries should be stored inside the bag in freezing cold weather to take advantage of the insulation.)
  • Stiffened, padded removable dividers. (Since I carry the camera with lens attached, I take some of these dividers and form an added cushioning layer at the bottom, as a buffer in case I set the bag down too hard. I do the same with all my backpacks. Essentially, I “float” these dividers so there’s a layer of air underneath, which still leaves plenty of room to position the camera with the grip up for a fast grab. And there's room to stow small items such as filters in this new "compartment.")
  • Inner zippered pocket for important documents. (I keep overlooking this option. There’s also a zippered pocket on the back, against your body. There is also a pair of inner side pockets for batteries in cold weather.)
  • Removable carrying handle for grab and go convenience. (Don’t remove it. When you board the plane, tuck the shoulder strap inside – it’s not detachable. Now carry this more compact bag by the handle and conveniently stow it under the seat in front of you.)
  • Webbing attachment points to accommodate modular pouches or a carabineer. (I attach a water bottle or pouch here on either side.)
  • Seam-sealed rain cover included. (Very, very nice touch!)
 
In the Field
For starters, the bag was a perfect fit under the seat in front of me, even on a relatively small commuter jet, Endeavor Air, to be specific.
 
Because the bag was so small and held a minimum amount of gear, carrying it was not uncomfortable in the least. In fact, I slung the shoulder strap over my neck. I hate it when a shoulder bag keeps sliding off the shoulder. ​I should add that the shoulder pad on this bag is quite nice, with strips on the underside designed for a secure purchase on the shoulder.

​Still, simply carrying the bag on your shoulder invites someone on the street to grab it. Which is also a good reason for using a sling strap on the camera. And, thankfully, there was room enough for that camera sling strap as well inside the bag.

Picture
Retrospective Leather collection. Courtesy Think Tank Photo.
​Concluding Remarks
If you’re into shoulder bags and, like me, don’t want to get weighed down with a big bag, then Think Tank Photo’s Retrospective Leather 5 is the perfect choice.

Of course, if you’re a wedding or portrait shooter, the Retrospective Leather 30, the largest in this new series, would be a logical alternative to a roller case, especially if you constantly need both hands free to shoot while moving about. And it would reflect a certain air of professionalism and sophistication while providing quick access to gear.
 
But, again, I needed a bag that was compact and lightweight and would hold just one DSLR with wide-to-tele zoom attached, and this was a good fit.

​Whether boarding a plane, or walking around the streets of New York or in the subway system, or shooting in the American Museum of Natural History, I always felt assured that I had my camera readily accessible and well protected.
Capsule Evaluation
Very practical, very well constructed - and spiffy.

Where can I get more info?
Think Tank Photo Retrospective Leather 5
 
Manufacturer:
Think Tank Photo
 
How much is it?
Direct: $199.75 (same price at B&H, Adorama).
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