I started using ThinkTank Photo bags in 2011. Their bags stand up to the test of time and have great zippers that never snag. Currently I’m using two of their bags, the Urban Approach 5 and the Spectral 8. Both are compact and hold a surprising amount of gear for their size.

The Spectral 8 is a Swiss Army Knife of a camera bag. It will hold a standard dSLR with one small lens mounted and 1-2 small extra lenses. If you’re a mirrorless shooter, this bag holds a mirrorless camera with 3-4 extra lenses. There’s also room for an 8” tablet, a smart phone, extra batteries, and other sundry items you carry on a photo shoot.

The bag has a unique magnetic latch that enables you to open the bag with one hand and locks automatically when you close the bag. It also has a zippered flap that you can close when security is an issue. When not needed you can stow the flap in a pocket to keep it out of the way. Also included are straps that you can attach to the bottom of the bag when you need to carry a tripod with you. When you travel, there’s a pass through flap at the back, which makes it easy to carry the Spectral 8 on a roller bag. If you’re shooting during inclement weather, a waterproof rain cover is  included. The bottom of the bag is also waterproof

The bag is attractive, spacious, and extremely functional. It looks more like a handbag or a man bag, so you remain inconspicuous while shooting. I give the bag high marks. It holds everything I need for a photo shoot and them some. The bag sells for $99.75, which is a bargain as far as I’m concerned. If you need to carry more gear, consider the Spectral 10, which sells for $119.75, or the Spectral 15, which has room for a 15 inch laptop and sells for $139.75. Watch the following video for a look at all of the features.

For more information:

Spectral 8

Spectral 10

Spectral 15