The
Waterfield Designs Camera Case comes in a few different sizes to fit different camera brands and models, but if you camera is not listed then the general purpose "UpShot" camera case will fit most needs for point and shoot cameras quite well.
Made from Waterfield's signature blend of Ballistic Nylon and
Neoprene, the camera case has a full layer of Neoprene on the inside to protect
digital cameras from life's knocks and bumps. Built within the space for equipment
is an adjustable panel with velcro sides so the case can be partitioned for
camera's of different sizes, or to separate a camera from the battery and cable
adaptor for example.
A small zippered pocket on the side is fashioned with a yellow
interior so it is easier to find memory modules which the flat pocket is well
suited to holding. On the opposite side is similiarly sized unzipped
pocket for storing quick access items. The tab on the corner of the camera bag makes it easy to pull from a
tight space, or clip into a carabinier and hang it from a knapsack for
example.
Compared to the slim-fitting
pleather camera case which came with th FujiFilm I used to take these shots, the
Waterfield Designs Camera Case is a lot more bulky. The difference rests with
the fact that the Camera Case is padded to protect the contents, where as the
stock camera case that shipped with FujiFilm is only intended to protect against
scratches.
Ultimately though, I like the relatively compact size of
Waterfield's Camera Case and the fact that I could drop in a few spare
batteries, the camera and some flash memory cards all in one place, and
still have easy access to each piece of hardware. The padding is also a reassuring addition
considering my past experiences with dropping the Fujifilm left me with a substantial repair bill.
The Camera Case retails for between $26-$37 depending on the size
of camera it is meant to protect.
What makes a good gear
case?
Ultimately, we only have a few
gripes about the way the Gear Pouch has its' zipper sewn into the bag; the
remaining Sleeve Case and Camera Case were just fine they way Waterfield
designed them. The design and construction are both trendy, and useful to the
lifespan of the items they carry inside.
The Sleeve Case is my
favorite, and an accessory I wouldn't be without, and judging by the scratches on
the magnesium case of my notebook, something I should have started using months
ago. The Camera Case isn't as portable as a bare camera in brief case or
shoulder bag, but it does offer a heck of a lot more protection from bumps and
drops which can be fatal to todays fragile electronics.
The designer materials,
creative look and bullet-proof ruggedness of Waterfield Designs products means
they cost a little more than comparable cases. However, the old adage about buy
the good tool, and the not the cheapest tool seems to fit. From the few years
experience I have had with another of this companies items, the Cargo Bag, I can
actually attest to just how durable these materials are. Ballistic Nylon is
tough stuff, and that put together with good manufacturing means it is very
likely that Waterfield's Bags will last many many years - and ultimately be a
good investment for you pocket and the lifespan of your hardware.
For more information, you can
check out Waterfield Designs at www.sfbags.com