Those who shop around for a camera bag today will not be lacking in choices. With a variety of brands, shapes and sizes, it isn't actually that easy to make a decision. You really need to know the photography equipment you will be carrying around, and not only that, you need the equipment you plan to be using in the near future. Most great photographers update their camera and lens inventory a couple times a year, but that doesn't mean you should have to buy a new camera bag just as often. If you're the type of photographer who enjoys adventures like trekking deep into the bush to get the best wildlife shots, then you need an especially comfortable and durable bag.

For those who travel extremely light when on a photo shoot, a bag that fastens around the waist is ideal. Even though this type of bag is small, there is still enough room for your SLR camera, batteries, straps and a zoom lens. The only downside to this type of bag is it will easily give you a backache if you don't keep it centered. Another type that works well if you don't carry too much with you is a simple shoulder bag which is especially convenient to change between lenses while you're on the go. For example, if you're after photographs of animals in the wild, you won't have time to stop to change lenses when tracking an animal on the move. An additional bonus to shoulder bags is that they don't particularly look like camera bags - making it much less likely for your bag to be stolen.

For those photographers who prefer having a large variety of camera equipment with them, a backpack is the way to go. With many padded compartments, you will have plenty of space for your lenses, flashes, filters and charges as well as the peace of mind that it will all be protected. Some bags such as the LowePro Computrekker AW even come with a waterproof cover incase you find yourself caught in the rain. Other backpacks come with wheels which enable you to roll it if it's too heavy to carry continuously. The most important thing to consider when buying a backpack camera bag is whether or not the straps have good padding. Because you're likely to spend hours at a time carrying equipment, it's worth paying a bit extra for a bag that will make it easier on your back and shoulders.

For those looking for some sort of median between a jumbo backpack and a tiny waist pack, a sling camera bag is an excellent choice. The SlingShot 200 AW is one such camera bag that is spacious yet compact at the same time. Similar to a shoulder bag but a little more secure, there is enough space for your camera and up to four lenses. This is also a great option for those who need quick access to their camera gear, as it takes just a moment to glide it from your back to your front without unfastening a thing. If you're a woman, the only potential downside to this type of camera bag is the way it digs into the center of the chest. Because of this, you should most definitely try it on before purchasing, but even still, many females find the SlingShot 200 quite comfortable.

Because photography as a whole covers such a wide variety of experiences for a long spectrum of photographers, there is actually no "best" bag. You must know your equipment and circumstances for photography shoots well to make an informed decision. Ask yourself questions like the following: How much equipment do I need to carry with me? For how many hours at a time do I normally carry my gear? What kind of bag feels the most comfortable? Finding the answers to these questions will really narrow your options down to just a few types of bags. While you do have to consider your budget, remember that a camera bag is a long-time investment for your photography equipment as well as your comfort. Be careful to not choose primarily on price.