First test
Langly bags Sierra Camera Backpack £134 PRICES: £134-£264
HOLDAN.CO.UK
Established by crowdfunding ten years ago, Langly offers carrying solutions that combine timeless design with durability
Tested by Lee Renwick
“SIERRA IS SPACIOUS, HARDY AND WELL THOUGHT OUT”
Hue lovers, also consider blue, aspen-gold and dew colourways. While the Sierra lacks some advanced practical features, such as multiple entry points and a way to secure the shoulder straps across the chest, it’s spacious, hardy and well thought out. The front and side pockets are large and secure enough for all manner of items, and there’s a dedicated rear compartment that fits an 18in laptop. A rugged twill finish leaves the bag capable of withstanding showers – zip covers and all.
I’m aware that the specific Sierra Camera Backpack pictured here isn’t necessarily for everyone. For those who don’t adore the vibrant orange – unlike myself – there are options in black and ash. The design itself is undeniably appealing, with a boxy, minimalist – dare I say vintage – charm.
I made good use of three further inside pockets for cables, SD cards, shot lists and bric-a-brac that usually lives at the bottom of my messenger bag. Then there’s the all- important matter of dividers. As a user of a compact mirrorless body, several short focal length lenses and one sizeable telephoto zoom, I found more compartments than I could fill within the 24L capacity. Two full- length vertical and eight short horizontal dividers may be configured virtually any way you please via Velcro. There are even two attachable elasticated straps. As a daily carry, I’d arrange a few dividers to secure my camera and a single attached prime, then leave the remaining space free for personal effects. On dedicated photo trips, a simple reshuffle would do the trick. I’ll be unmissable on the street, so when you see me, don’t hold back your compliments.
BAGS OF SPACE This eye-catching front loader has capacity for everything you could need on a day’s shooting
Bravo Mirrorless Shoulder Bag £144
Tested by Katie Kasperson
features a zipped, roll-top closure. Initially, I fumbled with the magnetic clasps – a function I’d yet to encounter on a bag – but quickly grew to like them. Though the Bravo features two side pouches, I had trouble getting my water bottle to fit, so be sure to test yours. That said, these pockets can easily hold other items like chargers, sunglasses and, most importantly, snacks. There are three additional sections for storage, with a ‘secret’ pocket proving useful for wallets, passports and other small valuables. I like the look – a sleek, minimalist design. If you’d prefer something more earthy, it comes in slate-grey, sage and mineral-white. Without gear, it’s incredibly light and easy to carry – the only potential improvement would be a handle!
The Bravo Mirrorless Shoulder Bag encourages hands-free travel with a lighter, more manageable kit. It’s deceptively large on the inside, able to hold at least one camera body and two to three lenses, as well as a tablet or small laptop. The interior is padded with removable inserts, letting you transform it into an everyday satchel if you so choose. The bag is decently comfortable, and fit nicely over my bulky winter clothes. It is coated with waterproof nylon and “A ‘SECRET’ POCKET PROVES USEFUL FOR SMALL VALUABLES”
LOW PROFILE The Bravo fits a lot of equipment into a small-looking bag
44 Photography News | Issue 103
photographynews.co.uk
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