Think Tank Retrospective 10

A couple of months back, I have tried out the Think Tank Retrospective 20, you can check out the post here. Personally, I find the Think Tank Retrospective 20 a little too big for my taste. While I prefer a more low profile shoulder bag, in some occasion I do want to carry the 70-200mm f/2.8 VRII around. Fortunately, the Think Tank Retrospective series do come in a smaller version - the Think Tank Retrospective 10. The main differences being a couple of inches shorter  and you cannot fit the 70-200mm f/2.8 attached in the Retrospective 10.

Think Tank Retrospective 10	Think Tank Retrospective 20
Gear Profile: 1 pro size DSLR with standard zoom lens attached and 1 - 3 additional lenses 1 pro size DLSR (body only) in front pocket and 2 - 4 lenses in main compartment Technical Specifications: ID:  12” W x 9.5” H x 6” D (30.5 x 24 x 15.2 cm)* OD:  13” W x 10.5” H x 7” D (33 x 26.7 x 17.8 cm) Weight:  3 lbs (1.4 kg)	Gear Profile: 1 pro size DSLR with up to a 70-200 f2.8 lens attached and 1 - 3 additional lenses 1 pro size DLSR (body only) in front pocket and 2 - 4 lenses in main compartment, including a 70-200 f2.8 Technical Specifications: ID:  12” W x 11.75” H x 6” D (30.5 x 29.8 x 15.2 cm)*  OD:  13” W x 12.5” H x 7” D (33 x 31.7 x 17.8 cm) Weight:  3.2 lbs (1.5 kg)

Unlike the Retrospective 20, the Retrospective 10 didn’t specify it can hold a 70-200mm f/2.8 in the main compartment, but I can confirm that the Retrospective 10 can still fit an unattached 70-200mm f/2.8.

I have been using the Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200 AW for a while now. It is the only shoulder bag that I think is low profile enough. I have tried the Crumpler 7 million dollar home previously, but it is still too big for my liking.

Despite the pick of the Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200 AW, it doesn’t fit the 70-200mm f/2.8, not to mention it doesn’t fit with the 24-70mm f/2.8 attached very well too. However, It is the only shoulder bag that I find comfortable to walk around with i.e. low profile enough.

Here is a side by side comparison with the Retrospective 10 and Stealth Reporter D200 AW. As shown, the Retrospective 10 is slightly taller so it can accommodate the 70-200mm f/2.8.

Here is a re-cap of some of the nice features in the Retrospective 10 which I have already mentioned in the Think Tank Retrospective 20 post.

The padding from Think Tank is usually less compare to those from Lowepro. By that, the Retrospective camera bags are seen to be more collapsible and flexible. The style is similar to the Crumpler’s Millions dollars bags, utilising Velcro under the main flap. One of the notable feature on the main flap is the “sound silencers” which allows you to suppress the loud tearing sound Velcro makes.

One feature I like the most is the collapsible nylon pockets on both sides of the main compartment. These pockets are designed to store  flash units which makes them nice and tidy. You will notice that most of the hook and loop straps (Velcro)  can be tucked away for quicker access.

Another important feature of this bag is the very large organizer pocket inside the main compartment. It has plenty room for those spare batteries, CFs, cables, etc.

There is also an expandable front pocket (one for the Retrospective 10 and 20, two for the Retrospective 30, ) which is big enough for a spare pro size DSLR. For the Retrospective 10 or 20, you can actually fit an iPad or netbook there.

On both sides of the Retrospective, there are webbing loops which can be used to attach modular pouches. The pouches fit very securely to the webbing loops, I didn’t feel any swaying movement from the pouches when they were attached to the sides.

Here I have attached the lightning fast (left) and the lens changer 35 (right) to give me that extra holding capacity.

In my previous Think Tank Retrospective 20 post, I have commented that the Think Tank Retrospective 20 is more comfortable than the Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200AW mainly due to how the strap is attached to the bag. This is also true for the Retrospective 10.

The canvas strap on the Retrospective 10 is nicely designed; the non slip material on the pad is much better than the one I have on my Lowepro Stealth Reporter. The strap is thick and integrated fully to the side of the bag (sewed from top all the way down to the bottom of the bag). The strap of the Retrospective distributes/secures the weight of the bag more evenly in comparison to the Lowepro Stealth Reporter. The Retrospective actually uses the whole width of the strap to loop through the side buckle while the Lowepro Stealth Reporter uses a “D ring” type of connection to the side which doesn’t distribute the weight that well.

Think Tank Retrospective 10 – fully integrated strap

Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200 AW – strap connected via a D-ring

So…here is the question, What can you fit in the Think Tank Retrospective 10?

Pretty much same as the Retrospection 20, click the below image to see the attached notes.

• Nikon D700 + MB-D10 + Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 (attached)
• Nikon 70-200mm VRII (left hand side compartment)
• Nikon 24mm f/1.4 (right hand side compartment)
• Nikon 85mmm f/1.4 (right hand side compartment)
• Netbook (front pocket)

Here is how  the 24mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.4 are stored in the side of the main compartment. 

A common question I got asked was, “Does it fit the iPad?” The answer is Yes.

In fact you can fit the iPad in all three pockets of the Retrospective 10 (refer to below image), i.e. front pocket (top left), inner pocket (top right) and the back pocket.

The front pocket is even large enough to fit a Macbook Air (11”) (bottom left) and a Netbook (bottom right).

While the Retrospective 10 is not really water resist, mainly made out of classic cotton material, it comes with a seam-sealed rain cover for protection against wet condition. The Think Tank Retrospective 10 is a low profile shoulder bag that can fit a large amount of camera gear and accessories, specifically the 70-200mm f/2.8, as well as room for an iPad or netbook. It doesn’t particularly looks like a camera bag which conceals its appearance from the crowd. It is very comfortable to wear thanks to the integrated canvas strap with non-slip material on the pad to keep the entire strap on your shoulder. For extra holding capacity, it is possible to attach modular pouches to the webbing loops on the sides.

This is a keeper for me.

 

Where can I find the equipment seen on this site?

If you find this site useful and planning to purchase any of the equipment seen on this site, please show your support by purchasing your photo equipment at B&H Photo Video, or through any of the affiliate links seen on this site.

Think Tank Retrospective 20

Think Tank’s new Retrospective series comes in two styles: Retrospective Soft-sided Camera Shoulder Bags and Retrospective Soft-sided Lens Changer Shoulder Bags. Available in two colours: Pinestone Cotton Canvas and Black Poly Spun Canvas. Ever since the release, they have been selling like hot cakes and are all most out of stock everywhere.

Luckily I was able to get my hands on the Retrospective 20 for a try out. The Retrospective is packed with many nice features, you can see them here.

The exterior of the Retrospective is simple, there are no obvious branding logo to attract any unwanted attention. I had my Len Changer 50 attached to the side for additional carriage.

The padding of the Retrospective is less compare to Lowepro’s shoulder bag such as the Stealth Reporter series. By that, the Retrospective camera bags are also more collapsible and flexible. The style is similar to the Crumpler’s Millions dollars bags, utilising Velcro under the main flap. One of the notable feature on the main flap is the “sound silencers” which allows you to suppress the loud tearing sound Velcro makes.

One feature I like the most is the collapsible nylon pockets on both sides of the main compartment. These pockets are designed to store  flash units which makes them nice and tidy. You will notice that most of the hook and loop straps (Velcro)  can be tucked away for quicker access.

Another important feature of this bag is the very large organizer pocket inside the main compartment. It is large enough for those spare batteries, CFs, cables, etc.

There is also an expandable front pocket (one for the Retrospective 10 and 20, two for the Retrospective 30, ) which is big enough for a spare pro size DSLR. For the Retrospective 10 or 20, you can actually fit an iPad or netbook there.

On both sides of the Retrospective, there is  a webbing loop which can be used in conjunction with the modular pouch. The pouch fits very securely to the webbing loops, I didn’t feel any swaying movement from the pouch when it was attached to the side.

The canvas strap is also nicely designed; the non slip material on the pad is much better than the one I have on my Lowepro Stealth Reporter. The strap is thick and integrated fully to the side of the bag (sewed from top to bottom). The strap of the Retrospective distributes/secures the weight of the bag more evenly  in comparison to the Lowepro Stealth Reporter. The Retrospective actually uses the whole width of the strap to loop through the side buckle, while the Lowepro Stealth Reporter uses a “D ring” type of connection on the side.

There is also a side pocket on each side which is suppose for water bottle, but the pocket is way too small for any standard size water bottle, so it is probably more suited for loose change, wallet, phones, etc.

The “D-ring” type of strap connection on the side of the Lowepro Stealth Report doesn’t distribute/secure the weight of the bag too well.

Finally what can you actually fit in a Retrospective 20 ? A lot…………….. Click image to check out the attached notes

• Nikon D3 + Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 (attached)
• Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 (attached on the side with Len Changer 50)
• Nikon 70-200mm VRII (Left hand side compartment)
• Nikon 24mm f/1.4 (Right hand side compartment)
• Nikon 85mmm f/1.4 (Right hand side compartment)
• More rooms for iPad, flashes, spare pro size DSLR

Having tried the Retrospective 20, I will be getting the smaller Retrospective 10, which is about two inches shorter but still big enough to store the 70-200mm f/2.8. It will be a nice addition to my Think Tank Street Walker Pro and Modular Belt that I am currently using.

 

Where can I find the equipment seen on this site?

If you find this site useful and planning to purchase any of the equipment seen on this site, please show your support by purchasing your photo equipment at B&H Photo Video (International), or through any of the affiliate links seen on this site.

Benro Chameleon 101

I had introduced Benro before on their Travel Angel tripod. Benro started producing professional tripod under its own brand back in 2002. In the past 8 years, it has established a solid market with a wide range of tripods and heads. Only until recently in 2009, Benro steps into the camera bag market ranging from backpacks, shoulder bags, slingbags and rolling cases. First, you will notice that a lot of their designs are counterpart to  Lowepro, Kata, Crumpler.

I had a chance to check out the Benro Chameleon 101. The Chameleon series comes in three different sizes C100, C101 and C102. The largest can fit a DSLR with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached. A tripod can also be attached on the front.

Size comparison to Think Tank Street Walker Pro

In term of size, the Benro Chameleon 101 is less bulky which is much more suitable for travel or casual walkabout. It doesn’t feel like you are carrying a box on your back. However, the material used is much softer yet still adequate and the straps are a bit too thin as well. The Think Tank street walker pro is certainly more solidly build of the two.

The Benro Chameleon is a unique three carrying options in one while changing from backpack to right sling then to left sling by using its quick release buckles. So it is a backpack and sling bag in one. It also features side access similar to the Lowepro fastpack and slingshot.

What can you fit in the Benro Chameleon 101 ?

The bag is divided in to two compartments, the top and bottom. The top compartment is large enough fit quite a few things, filters, batteries, a 70-200mm f/2.8 or two even.

The main compartment can easily fit a 24-70mm f/2.8 attached, SB-900 flash, 14-24mm f/2.8. 50mm f/1.4. It also comes with a raincoat.

I would say Benro Chameleon is more suitable for those who are looking for a small-ish backpack that doesn’t look oversize but still want to carry quite a bit of gear. While it is nicely designed and well made, it is certainly not as strong as the Think Tank street walker pro.

Other camera bag blog entries:

Benro Chameleon 101

Think Tank Street Walker Pro

Think Tank Street Walker

Think Tank Modular Set

Crumpler Whickey and Cox

Lowepro Flipside 400 AW

Lowepro Flipside 200

Lowepro Flipside 300

Lowepro Inverse 200 AW

Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200 AW

Lowepro Fastpack 350

Lowepro Fastpack 200

Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW

Lowepro EX180

Think Tank Street Walker Pro

Think Tank Street Walker comes in three different sizes. Street Walker, Street Walker Pro and Street Walker Hard Drive. Having checked out the Think Tank Street Walker which is a good option as a travel bag. The next size up is the Think Tank Street Walker Pro, which is slightly bigger in both height and depth. But, it is deep enough to fit a  pro DSLR or DSLR with battery grip.

Apart from the size difference, the PRO version offers a pull down tripod cup and the ability to attach a modular belt to padded waist support.

Think Tank has a bit less padding and hence feel less bulky which is what I preferred. The build quality is good, but not better than Lowepro's. This is probably due to thicker material and padding used on Lowepro bags, so the Lowepro bags feel a bit more solidly made.

Size comparison with Think Tank Street Walker and Street Walker Pro

Internal compartment size comparison with Think Tank Street Walker and Street Walker Pro

Finally, what can you fit in a Thank Tank Street Walker Pro?

Nikon D700 + MB-D10

Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8

Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 (attached)

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8

Nikon 20mm f/2.8

Nikon 85mm f/1.4

Filters

Other camera bag blog entries:
Think Tank Street Walker
Think Tank Modular Set
Crumpler Whickey and Cox
Lowepro Flipside 400 AW
Lowepro Flipside 200
Lowepro Flipside 300
Lowepro Inverse 200 AW
Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200 AW
Lowepro Fastpack 350
Lowepro Fastpack 200
Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW
Lowepro EX180

Think Thank Lens Changer and Lowepro Lens Case

Using a belt system is by far the best option when you want to keep you gear accessible while you are shooting. The two most popular belt system come from Thinktank and Lowepro which offer a full range of belt system components. Check out my blog post on the Think Tank Modular set.

Which belt system is better? Think Tank or Lowepro ?

Only yourself can answer that question. But let’s do some comparisons.

Below are the Think Tank Lens Changer 35 and Lowepro LC 2S which are designed to hold a standard zoom such as 24-70mm f/2.8.  Both are about the same size and build quallity.

For telephoto lens, the LC 4 from Lowepro and  Lens Changer 75 Pop Down from Think Tank are both suitable for the 70-200mm f/2.8.

In terms of size, the LC4 is quite a bit bigger than the Len changer 75 pop down due to its thicker padding.

Some remarks:

Lowepro – Offers more padding and hence can be used as lens storage or lens carry bag. Access to the lens is by unzipping the top cover. The top cover helps to prevent dust from getting in. The lens cases are part of Lowepro’s Slip Lock system.

Think Tank – Offers less padding but compressible. This helps to fit them better in a suitcase or backpack. While the small amount of padding will give some protection, it is probably not ideal for carrying lenses around. Access to the lens by releasing the bungee cord is arguably faster but risks dust to get in.

Two major differences are in the top access and padding

Here is what the two system look like with the Think Tank pro speed belt. Note that the Lowepro lens cases are compatible with the Think Tank belt, but not vica versa. The Think Tank modules do feel abit more stable than the Lowepro lens cases, probably because of the wider flaps.

In summary:

If you want to use the Lens Cases to carry Lens around/storage then go with LOWEPRO

If you are an event shooter and want something not too bulky so you can move around, then go with THINK TANK

If you need to store you Lens Cases easily in a backpack or suitcase,then go with THINK TANK

If you shoot in a rugged place like in a warzone, then go with LOWEPRO

If you are a person who worry about your lenses getting bumped or dusted all the time, then go with LOWEPRO

If you are a traveller who carry your lenses mainly in a separate backpack, then go with THINK TANK

If you are a professional photographer, then go with THINK TANK, assuming you have enough revenue not to worry about dust and scratches on your lenses.

The main purpose of a belt system is to provide fast access to your gear when you are on the run, also the ability to take some weight off your shoulder. The lack of padding on Think Tank might not be as crucial to some, because they are not intending to use it for storage or transportation.

Think Tank Street Walker

Having tested so many Lowepro backpacks and shoulder bags, I think it is time to try out the Think tank range. I got my hands on a Think Tank Street Walker. First impression when compared to Lowepro backpacks is that the Think Tank has a bit less padding and hence feel less bulky which is what I preferred. The build quality is good, but not better than Lowepro's. This is probably due to thicker material and padding used on Lowepro bags, so the Lowepro bags feel a bit more solidly made.

Comparison of the size between a Think Tank Street Walker (Left) and Lowepro Flipside 400 AW (Right). The Flipside is wider, thicker and bulkier which is more suitable for hiking purposes. Both have tripod mount on the front, rain cover and waist belt. The Flipside 400 AW features a much thicker waist belt which will give you a better support for those long trips.

Internal space comparison between a Lowepro Mini Trekker AW (Left), Lowepro Flipside 400 AW (Middle) and Think tank Street Walker (Right) . Notice the padding on Think Thank is much thinner. The Mini Trekker AW and Flipside 400 AW can fit a bit more gear than the Think Thank Street Walker.

What can you fit in a Think Tank Street Walker ?

Nikon D700 (Unfortunately, it won’t accommodate with a battery grip MB-D10)

Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8

Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 (attached)

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8

Nikon 50mm f/1.4

Nikon 85mm f/1.4

 

Overall, I would say the Think Tank Street Walker is a better option as a travel bag because it is less bulky. It is well made, but lacks the attention to detail from Lowepro bags. For something bigger and stronger use for hiking, Lowepro Mini Trekker or Flipside 400 AW might be a better choice.

Other camera bag blog entries:

Crumpler Whickey and Cox

Lowepro Flipside 400 AW

Lowepro Flipside 200

Lowepro Flipside 300

Lowepro Inverse 200 AW

Lowepro Stealth Reporter D200 AW

Lowepro Fastpack 350

Lowepro Fastpack 200

Lowepro Slingshot 200 AW

Lowepro EX180

Think tank belt system – Modular Set and pro speed belt

Using a belt system is by far the best option when you want to keep you gear accessible while you are shooting. It is much more accessible than any backpack or slingbag such as Lowepro Slingshot. The two most popular belt system come from Thinktank and Lowepro which offer a full range of belt system components. From Thinktank, it offers a Modular Set which comes with six modules include:

Large Lens Drop In:
For quick access to lens.
Lens Changer 35:
For zoom lens with hood attached.
Lens Changer 50:
For wide angle lens with hood attached.
LC 75 Pop Down:
For telephoto lens with hood attached.
Lightning Fast:
For SLR flash unit.
Speed Changer:
Utility bag for CF cards, batteries, etc.

The three lens changers (35, 50, 75) are designed to hold wide angle, standard zoom and telephoto lens respectively. Image below shows the three lens changers will fit Nikon’s Holy Trinity perfectly (Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8, Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 and Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8).

The modular set also comes with:

Lighting Fast for speedlight,

Speed charger to fit small lenses, filter, etc. It can also fit a pro DSLR without lens attached.

Large Lens Drop In for quick access of your lens.

To hold all the components together, you can choose from Skin Belt, Steroid Speed Belt or Pro Speed Belt (as shown).

Thinktank Modular Set with Pro Speed Belt.

Thinktank Modular Set with Pro Speed Belt in action

Remarks

• Thinktank modules are less padded than Lowepro's. Therfore, the modules are smaller.

• Thinktank modeles are compressible for storage whereas Lowepro's are not compressible due to the thick padding.

• Thinktank has specific modules for speedlights and various modules for accessories such as Speed Changer, Trim Changer, Bum Bag and Chimp Cage

• Thinktank utilises bungee cord top access, so the top acess is not fully covered for dust.

• Thinktank modules come with raincovers.

• All Thinktank belts are harness compatible, whereas only the Lowepro S&F Deluxe is harness compatible.