I haven’t reviewed any gear in a while but I thought that since quite a few photographers read my blog I should review a piece of equipment that I really feel can make your life a whole lot easier: the Boda V3 Weatherproof Lens Bag.
This isn’t a technical review of everything that the bag has and does; if you want that head on over to the Boda V3 Weatherproof Lens Bag website. This is an “experiential review” based on my usage of the bag yesterday at a very fast-paced, multiple location, don’t-lose-concentration-for-a-second-or-you’ll-miss-a-critical-shot 12 hour Indian wedding.
To help illustrate how I used it, here’s a ghetto photo of me wearing the Boda V3 at the wedding last night (excuse the receding hairline and pudgy belly – I blame all the free delicious Indian food at these weddings!).
Lens and camera accessories storage
Here you can see the Boda V3 with my 70-200 2.8L IS lens poking out. Note that this lens does fit completely inside the bag; I have just put the velcro divider in a bit higher to make the lens easier to grab while shooting.
You can also see the 580EX flash in the side pocket (note that I couldn’t quite get the flap to close on my 580EXII flash – it must be just a little taller). This will come in handy if I quickly need to slap a flash onto a light stand for some off-camera lighting. I use the Elinchrom Skyports because they keep a much lower profile than the bulky Pocketwizards and fire just as reliably for much less money.
On my camera is the 24-70 2.8L, which fits neatly next to the 70-200. I use the most excellent R-Strap from Black Rapid as my camera strap which works well in conjunction with the Boda V3 – I just had to wear the camera on my left hip instead of my right which is no problem. I might try having the Boda on my left hip next time.
The outer pocket has space for (I think) 16 CF memory cards. I found it quick and easy to swap cards out (make sure to keep the rubber tab things inside the pocket rather than on the outside – the cards slip in and out easier).
Other stuff in the bag: Ledlaser torch, wallet, keys, Business cards (I didn’t use the included card holder, just slipped them in one of the side pockets), Elinchrom Skyport trigger. There still was room in the side pocket and the front pockets so I’m sure I’d be able to fit some more batteries and other stuff with no problems. It’s impressive how well the bag utilises the space – it’s obviously been well designed.
Bag confidence
Indian weddings require a LOT of running. Things happen all over the place in a giant hall so you’re constantly bolting from one end to the other to capture everything. Not once did I feel like the Boda V3 would accidentally slip down my waist or that the clips would come undone. The bag clung tightly to my waist and my lenses and other bits seemed quite snug in the bag and didn’t move around much at all.
How did my hips feel at the end of the 12 hours?
I used the optional waist system (by default it comes with the shoulder system which I’ve yet to use). I’m writing this the morning after and I’m not sore anywhere – just a slight tightness in my right hip which can be fixed with a little stretching. This is a big improvement over the Lowepro Slingshot which I used to carry around on my back all day, and quite a feat considering the monstrous 70-200 lens which it housed. Wearing the Boda V3 was very comfortable; I had free range of movement with my legs, and could perform the requisite squats, lunges and dives that come with the job. Sitting was a little tricky but achievable with a little pushing and pulling of the bag. ( Side note for the guys – yes you can take a whiz without removing the bag : ) )
The most important bit: How fast can I swap lenses?
REALLY fast. Without much practice (I only received the Boda V3 last week and this is my first job with it) I found I could switch between my 70-200 and 24-70 in around 3 seconds – including clicking the lens onto the camera. I’m sure I’ll get quicker once I get the hang of it. Very impressive indeed, and essential when I’m shooting non-stop 500-guest Indian weddings.
The Bag Ultimatum
For US$195 the Boda V3 is a wise investment for any of you photographers who find themselves at a wedding thinking “crap, I need my wide angle for this shot but I can’t look away or I’m going to miss something”. I’ve no doubt this bag will find its way into other photography disciplines – I’m thinking sports shooters, portrait shooters and anyone who needs to swap lenses in a pinch without missing a moment.
I’ve tried a few different ways of lens storage and switching and this one by far is the easiest, most comfortable, quickest way to swap lenses and add/remove flashes, remote triggers, business cards and anything else you can think of in the heat of the moment. I can move around and shoot with more confidence than before. The Boda V3 lens bag is proving to be something I can’t do without.
This set looks fantastic mate.. keep it up :)