After almost a decade has passed since I first picked up a camera, I think it's safe to say that I've owned or tested more camera bags than most photographers. I've used everything from backpacks to messenger bags, to those smaller sling bags that go across your chest like a fanny pack. The majority of these bags have found themselves living a life of early retirement where they'll live out the rest of their days wondering where they went wrong.

I personally like to shoot with a camera bag most of the time rather than using a strap or holster system but it took me a long time to get there. Finding the right one can, without a doubt, seem like the most frustrating challenge that you'll ever face in life. I think it's the fact that many come close, but as the saying goes, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades right? Right.

Some bags are durable and do a great job of protecting my gear but fall short in the comfort department. Others are comfortable yet lack the durability to take the beating that I put them through and don't do that great of a job keeping everything inside safe and sound. Just like with the cameras I shoot with, I simply need one that does everything I need it to do while also not getting in my way. I don't know who needs 100 pockets but if I can lose my car keys or my wallet (or both) at least once a day, chances are pretty good that more pockets mean more time digging around to find what I need.

Over the years, I've found that a messenger style bag is what simply works the best for me and the Oberwerth line of messenger bags has quickly become my go-to. Particularly, the Porto which can carry my Leica SL2 plus two lenses or two camera/lens combos. Aside from their stylish look, Oberwerth bags have proven themselves to be built to last. I have beaten them up pretty good and they only come out looking better with age. There are just enough (easy to access) pockets and the top flap is easy to open and "securely" close with the style of buttons they use. One of my favorite features that the Porto bag offers, as well as some of the others made by Oberwerth, is the padded insert that you can take out which comes in handy when packing my gear for travel.

If you're a fan of messenger-style bags, I highly suggest giving the Oberwerth line a look, especially the Porto or the Boulevard. Yes, I'm extremely picky when it comes to camera bags, but if you're going to invest in the best camera gear then you should be making sure the bag you put it in not only looks good but also keeps it safe. I've learned my lesson the hard way on how quickly you can damage your gear by using a poorly or cheaply made camera bag. Please, don't skimp on your camera bag.

As always, thank you for reading!