What to look for in a camera bag (hint: you may have the perfect one already!)

When it comes to camera bags, I prefer something that doesn’t scream “I have an expensive camera with me!” This way, whether I’m carrying my camera bag through the airport or during a session at the park, I’m not drawing unnecessary attention to my gear.

I started out with a small messenger-style bag that was perfect for my DSLR and one lens, but I soon outgrew that as I added lenses and a speedlight. The other options for camera bags on Amazon were pretty boring (or outrageously expensive), so instead I googled around to see what other photographers were using.

That’s when I discovered an amazing option for a camera bag – and I already had a few around my house: a diaper bag!

This may sound unconventional, but diaper bags really are perfect for protecting your gear. As a bonus, they come with tons of storage, too. You can find them in a range of styles, prints and colors, so it’s pretty easy to find something you’ll love.

I started out with my Petunia Pickle Bottom boxy backpack that I wasn’t currently using for my girls. The protective compartment from my original camera bag fit perfectly inside, and I had plenty of room for additional lenses and gear. The pockets fit extra storage cards, batteries, a lens cleaning kit and other items that I bring to every maternity, Fresh 48 or newborn session.

Even more importantly – the entire bag is waterproof on the outside, so I don’t have to worry about setting my bag on the ground or if it starts to rain.

The PPB was a great conversation piece for tons of sessions! Most mamas didn’t even recognize that it was a diaper bag!

However, it was kind of heavy and clunky, even without anything in it. This past Black Friday, I decided it was time for a new bag – and I came across the O’Beanie, which I am totally in love with!

The blue and white stripes with brown accents sold me immediately – I love the vintage look of the O’Beanie. It goes with pretty much everything. Best of all, when I carry this bag, I don’t feel like it’s a diaper bag, and it certainly doesn’t look like it, either.

I’m still using the same protective padded compartment that came with my first bag. This is such an important thing to have for any nice camera, so invest in one for yourself. Mine has foam dividers with velcro along the sides so I can adjust each section within the entire compartment.

None of the camera bags I looked at had as many pockets as diaper bags do, although both options are almost always padded, which adds an extra layer of protection. Not only does all of my gear fit nicely inside of the O’Beanie, but I also have room for business cards, pens, notebooks, reflectors, wardrobe clips for maternity sessions and other necessary items – with room to spare! My wallet, keys and phone also have a dedicated pocket inside, so I don’t have to carry a purse. Just like my PPB, it’s waterproof on the outside, so I won’t panic if it starts to rain during an outdoor session, or if I have to set my bag on the ground.

Even with the O’Beanie fully loaded with everything I need, it’s very comfortable to carry and the weight is evenly distributed. It’s sleek and slender and takes up very little room.

I love that I can carry it on my arm or like a backpack. The timeless, sophisticated look of the O’Beanie is also awesome – in addition to the price! Since it was Black Friday, I snagged the bag for only $25 (with free shipping since we have a Prime account). It looks MUCH more expensive, the reviews were awesome and it seems to be very well made. Diaper bags are made for heavy duty use, which gives me extra piece of mind about having an expensive camera and nice lenses inside.

So, if you’ve got a diaper bag laying around that you don’t need anymore (or if you recently got an extra one at a baby shower), see if it will work for your camera! I think you’ll love how your diaper bag can be used for more than just baby things!

If you’re looking for a maternity, Fresh 48 or newborn photographer, you’re in the right place! I’m based in The Woodlands, TX and also serve clients in surrounding areas, including Bryan/College Station. Let’s get together and plan a magical session to celebrate the beauty of motherhood. Click the button below to contact me now!