Bag/Case Suggestions for 2010?

[Wil_Bloodworth]

So I have a backpack that is very nice (Video bags camera bags Kata - Manufacturer of camera bags).

And then I have two Pelican cases (a 1500 and a 1620). The 1500 is way too small and the 1620 is too large.

I typically don't "walk around" for photography so I'm not looking for a walk-around case. In fact, I have another sling-type bag that I hate and never really used but I can't even remember where it is stored. I should sell that!

I am very interested in the newer, small, suitcase-like bags that have wheels and such but I have never really seen or used any of them in person.

When I'm not taking the studio gear along, I will pretty much take most of my lenses just because I don't want to hurt any of their feelings by leaving them behind. That said, I'll take two pro-sized bodies, a 70-200mm f/2.8, a 50mm f/1.4, an 85mm f/1.4, a 24-70m f/2.8, a 105mm macro, and a 14-24mm f/2.8 (NEW), and a TC or two. Then add a couple of polarizing filters, 32 AA batteries, several CF cards, Sekonic light meter, two SB-900 flashes (in their cases), four pocket wizards, various cords, mini screwdrivers, a video light (NEW), business cards, lens cleaning cloths, yadda yadda. Oh, and a tripod and a monopod... on the outside of the bag. And I'll be adding a Tilt/Shift lens very soon as well. I never carry the 120-300mm f/2.8 or any big lenses so that's not important in this consideration.

All of that doesn't fit neatly into the Kata. Nothing fits in the 1500 and the 1620 engulfs all of it and is hard to deal with. I bought the 1620 really just to carry around all of the studio gear.

So what are your suggestions? The option of carrying two cases is open but they need to be two small (by small I mean small enough to qualify as a carry-on) cases.

Thank you!

- Wil

[Matt_G]

Thinktank Airport bags fit your description...and they would hold your 120-300 when needed. Expensive but think tank stuff is well designed and designed to last.

Check out sme of the videos on the site that show pros packing them..really gives you an idea of the possibility.
YouTube - John Harrington - WHAT WE USE - Nikon D3 Kit:

For me I use the Think Tank Speed Racer for everyhting other than my 400.

Inside I keep...
1D Mark III
70-200 2.8
580 Flash
15mm fish
24-70 2.8
1.4 tele
camera battery
2 cases of AA batteries
plus various bits and bobs
If needed I attach the Chimp Cage as part of the modular system and can hold a second camera or two small lens or other junk

[Wil_Bloodworth]

Matt,

Yes, I think that is the one I am looking for. I would like to look at one before ordering but Arlington Camera never responded to my PM if they had one in stock.

Thank you for the info! Joe Lorenzini has one of these and likes it as well.

- Wil

[Matt_G]

Camera Stop in Plano carries at least one of the Airport versions. That is a lot closer.

Seen them in action a few times this year...the bag is worth the $$ if you have the equip to fill it.

[Wil_Bloodworth]

I'll have to stop in there and take a look. I have a very deep dislike for the owner so I wouldn't buy a Q-Tip from him... but I'll swing by and take a look at the bag. Thanks for letting me know they have them.

- Wil