Bevis Gear Top Shelf camera bag

You're a fan Do you have independent (non-video) descriptions?

I saw this on Petapixel. Does not look like something I am looking for, I would like a better harness. I am interested in the new Shimoda Explore v2 that is also on Kickstarter atm.

Oh, start-up companies without a track record who warn against fakes... Not a good look imho.

Addy,
All I've seen is the video reviews and product descriptions on line. I was prepared to jump in and order on that basis, and take advantage of the US$100 pre-order discount.
I really like the concept, and being optimistic by nature am prepared to take a punt that the mechanical design, finishes and build quality are all as promoted. Having paid via PayPal I am protected by their unconditional money back guarantee should the product fail to meet the description.
I guess I'll be able to report in detail when I've taken delivery.

Neil,
For many years I too have been a very happy user of the LowePro Slingshot 202AW as my favourite walkabout bag when out with my DSLT and several lenses.
Like you, this similarly sized bag strikes me as a logical extension with several significant and innovative improvements.
I would normally wait for it to arrive in retail stores so as to literally get a feel for it, but who knows how long it may take to arrive in Oz? So I've taken the plunge.

Happy to report in after I get it.


Edited by Jozioau - 17 July 2021 at 13:50

Found this recently posted first impressions unpacking and review by a young US based photographer that's a useful indication of how the bag works First impression and review YouTube (14 minutes).
Main limitation for me is that it won't hold camera with vertical grip attached, but it's not that hard to stow separately and attach as needed.

nandbytes wrote: A very interesting bag indeed. I did like what I saw but back zipper opening is not my thing. To be honest I don't even have that much gear, my smaller bags are adequate.

And I was thinking that bag looks bit small for my taste...

nandbytes wrote: Sometimes all the gear I carry fits in my jacket pockets

...although there is of course situations when I want to have a light kit and likewise sometimes I skip taking a bag.

nandbytes wrote: Hezu wrote: And I was thinking that bag looks bit small for my taste... ...although there is of course situations when I want to have a light kit and likewise sometimes I skip taking a bag. ok its not actually all that big and my current bag is about the the same size. but I carry more than just cameras in my f-stop Kenti. it fits my gear in its side pockets plus filters etc. I have room on top for jackets, food, bits and bobs etc. p.s. I also have a separate bag for 200-600mm....but I don't carry that lens everywhere I go. So its not really part of my "standard" gear.

I love my Kenti. Too bad nothing similar but improved is available. That bag has a great harness without being huge.... I hope the smallest of the new Shimoda can fit that space - for a price.

Bingo!
Mine was delivered in Melbourne Australia yesterday 31/12/21, and I've just unpacked it and am working out what to place in it and how I want it.
My only regret is that it's too shallow to take my a-mount cameras with vertical control grips attached, as I prefer them. But I knew that in advance.
Looking forward to taking it out for a road test.

P.S - a 'first draft' layout. Will refine based on practical use. It's unlikely I'd be taking all of this out and about at any one time, but this shows just how much this compact bag can hold.
From top left:
Sony SAL70200G2, Carl Zeiss 16-35mm f2.8 Vario-Sonnar
Samyang 24mm f3.5 Tilt/Shift, Sony a99ii with Carl Zeiss 24-70mm f2.8 Vario-Sonnar
Sigma 15mm f2.8 fisheye, Bevis rain cover.

Bevis Gear Top Shelf camera bag by Joe Lewit, on Flickr


Edited by Jozioau - 01 January 2022 at 03:45

Haven't been out with it yet (summer heatwave here with temperatures peaking at 38 C).
In an initial test at home, the bag full loaded as photographed, is weighty but sits comfortably on the back and shoulder, slings easily to the side for action, is super quick to open, and everything is readily to hand for taking photos, including changing lenses. Then quick to snap lock shut and sling around to the back again.
In practice I'd never have it as heavily packed on any given shoot. I'd think camera, fitted lens and 2 others tops on most occasions.
Happy to report again after an outing.