An Addendum - A Photographer's Kit (Camera Bags)

"A very subtle difference can make the picture or not."

- Annie Leibovitz

Sometimes I feel like my voice is lost in the wind. I've only 'officially' got 17 followers to my little blog that could. Though I adore and really appreciate my followers I admit that my 'modest' follower count can get a diva-blogger down, a little. Recently, however, I've learned that I have a few dozen 'unoffical' followers (come on ya'll, sign up!). Well, a few weeks ago, one of my unofficial followers - Vonnie -convo'd me:

"Hi there!

I just stumbled onto your blog & love it (definitely adding it to my feeds!). I also have the Ginger bag [but] I really miss having a smaller, thinner bag for running around with..."

Ginger in the foreground, Lyric in the background

Vonnie put into words my own experience(s) with my beloved Epiphanie camera bags - I have a 'Ginger' and a 'Lyric.' They're gorgeous, well made (crazy durable), and have an amazing re-arrangable cushioned interior, that perfectly protects your camera and lens(es) and, best of all, there's plenty of room left over for your Diva-essentials. Yes, they are expensive, but worth every cent! However they are also too large and bulky for everyday use. Yes, they're perfect for when I'm on the job, but sometimes a girl just wants to throw her camera in a small bag and go - especially for photographers (like me) who take their 'big girl' camera practically everywhere.  

Working a Paris shoot with 'Ginger' and Coco ;-}

While I had been casually looking for a solution to my quandry - a protective, simple, and practical way to carry my camera (+a telephoto lens) with me (daily) in a 'slim' lightweight bag, Vonnie's comment inspired me. Happily, it didnt' take me too long to find the perfect solution:

The "DSLR Camera Cozy Tote"  $30 by TJ Camera Accessories

Interior view

  

I already have several of Tracy's camera lens bags, so I can attest to their superior craftsmanship and superior quality. So, I began my seach in her shop - turned out that the first search was the charm. After several requests, Tracy has created a 'casual' protective camera tote that neatly fits inside whatever bag or large-ish purse you choose (Amy, this would be perfect for your new French Market Tote ;-} Forewarning: these totes are not intended to replace your proper sturdy on-the-job camera bag (Epiphanie, et. al.) I've just ordered my Camera Cozy Tote and, once I've road tested it, I'll give a full review.

Okay people, get to shooting! And keep letting me know how it's going. You know that I love to hear from you!

*Several of my readers have asked me why I use this photo as the 'lead' for my 'Photography' section. In explanation, I've enlarged it as much as possible. Taken in Paris (of course ;-} , in the right topside of this photo you can see a reflection of me taking this photo - see my black camera? I think that this photo best represents all photographers in action. Work!

Vivre! Rire! Aimer!

Temple