29.09.2017

For the Urban Explorer

written by:
Zach Asato

29.09.2017

For the Urban Explorer

Manhattan is the ultimate urban jungle, a triumph of architectural ingenuity and creative innovation. There are boundless cityscapes and endless scenes to capture in New York City, anything from a band performing in the crowded platform of a subway station, or the silhouette skyline of Manhattan from Brooklyn Bridge Park.

New York City is forever changing yet always photogenic. When I learned that Manfrotto was launching a new series of photography bags
under the title, the Manfrotto Manhattan Collection, I was intrigued. With the help of Manfrotto, I tested out the messenger Speedy-10 camera bag, one of the three bags that are part of the line.

I have grown accustomed to carrying my cameras and lenses in a backpack, so a messenger bag was quite the change. However, I must say that the bag provided an elevated ease of use and convenience that I believe is perfect for going on shoots around the city. Although the bag is advertised as being able to hold a DSLR and 3 lenses, through some reconfiguration of the padding, I was able to accommodate two cameras both with lenses mounted, as well as another lens, with extra room for an iPad.

Additionally, my Manfrotto Befree travel tripod was able to attach to the exterior of the bag, which was very helpful in terms of quick access. Something that was surprisingly useful was the top zipper, which allowed me to access the contents of the bag without undoing the buckles or velcro, a design feat that I felt was safer and made my camera more readily available.

Aside from the functionality, the bag offered a more stylish look as compared to my standard backpack setup. The messenger style appeals as a more suitable alternative in terms of adapting to the urban fashion landscape.

A problem that I had previously with my backpack that was alleviated when using the messenger bag was that the backpack would constantly rub against my back, sometimes creating weird textures and damaging the fabric of my jackets. Of course that might not be a pervasive issue for others, but the messenger bag was, in my opinion, more desirable in this respect.

After using the bag around Manhattan, I would definitely see myself roaming around urban environments with a messenger bag instead of my backpack, especially for more formal photography venues. If you’re looking for practicality and functionality with a fashionable aesthetic, I would recommend the messenger bag as a viable and innovative option.

Zach Asato

Explorer and visual storyteller ?Phoenix, AZ ?

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