Can one ever have too many camera bags? If you are new to photography and you’re not sure, the answer is no. If you’ve been shooting for awhile, then you already knew the answer to that question. Today we are going to take a look at one of Lowepro’s newest bags, the Urban Photo Sling 150.
Similar to Lowepro’s wildly popular SlingShot series, the Urban Photo Sling is designed for those who want quick access to their gear but in a non-traditional form factor. The only similarities the SlingShot and the Urban Photo Sling share is the fact that they are sling bags. The SlingShot series offers side access and extra storage above the camera compartment while the Urban Photo Sling uses a top-loader setup and has minmal additional storage. While the SlingShot series can hold more, they are also much bigger than the Urban Photo Sling.
Specifications
- Modern and compact design offers fast and easy access to gear
- 3 wearing options: front, back and side for versatility, comfort and added security
- Dedicated, padded compartment provides protective space for a tablet
- 2 loading options: top and full panel for maximum organization of camera gear and a tablet
- Adjustable and removable padded divider system offers an easy way to customize gear
- Tuckaway waistbelt provides additional stability, comfort and security
- Zippered front accessory pocket offers easy access to small items; hook/loop fasteners provide extra security when attached
- Contoured, mesh-covered top flap offers long-wearing comfort and provides a moisture barrier
- Side pockets provide grab-and-go access for accessories and personal items
- Interior keeper strap provides extra security for additional lenses and/or accessories
- Built-in memory card pocket keeps spare memory protected and within easy reach
Capacity
- DSLR with attached 55-200mm lens
- 2 extra lenses OR a flash and 1 lens
- Tablet
- Accessories and personal items
- OR
- CSC with attached kit lens
- 3 extra lenses OR a flash and 2 lenses
- Tablet
- Accessories and personal items
Size(Interior): 7.68W X 4.53D X 11.02H in./ 19.5 X 11.5 X 28 cm |
Size(Exterior): 10.63W X 7.2D X 11.61H in./ 27 X 18.3 X 29.5 cm |
Front Compartment Inner Dimensions: in./ 18 X 2 X 18 cm |
Weight: 1.3lbs/0.6kg |
Video Review
Gear Seen in Video:
- Apple iPad
- Canon 5D
- Canon 50mm f1.8
- Canon 70-200mm f4L IS
- Canon 17-40mm f4L
- ThinkTank Pee Wee Pixel Pocket Rocket
Size & Looks
One thing that always concerns me about small bags is they look funny when I use them. I’m a pretty tall guy and many small bags start to enter the “Murse” (Man-Purse) zone. I prefer bags that minimize the harassment I receive from my wife when possible. This bag is on the small side, but because it is a sling bag, I think it steers clear of Murse territory. I’ve included some lovely pictures of yours truly wearing the Lowepro Urban Photo Sling 150. Keep in mind that I’m 6’4″ and 165lbs. Yes, tall and lanky.
Overall, I like the look of the bag. It looks like most of Lowepro’s current bags which I think is a good thing. It’s compact, discrete, and can be worn by people of all sizes comfortably. Women may want to try this on before buying as I don’t think the strap is exactly contoured to fit a woman’s body if you know what I mean.
Final Thoughts
When I first pulled this bag out of the box, I immediately thought “Nope, too small”. I figured this bag would only be useful for mirrorless camera systems or those who shoot with a small body and kit lens. But then I started to put my gear into the bag and I have to admit, I was shocked. This bag can easily fit my Canon 5D with Canon 50mm f1.8 attached, Canon 17-40mm f4L, Canon 70-200mm f4L IS along with a few extra accessories. Given the size of the bag, I think that is extremely impressive. If you need room for personal items like a jacket or large headphones, the SlingShot series may be a better choice for you. The Urban Photo Sling series seems to be focused on keeping things small and compact while still being able to carry your essential gear.
I personally prefer backpacks over slings and shoulder bags but this little bag may find a permanent home in my collection of bags. I find this to be more comfortable to use over long periods of time than a shoulder bag and it is much smaller and more portable than a backpack. If backpacks are too big and you find shoulder bags to be less than ideal, I would strongly suggest you take a look at the Urban Photo Sling as you may be pleasantly surprised.
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