When it comes to camera bags the choices can be overwhelming. Everyone has different needs regarding capacity, organization, weight, carrying comfort, and protection. In my opinion, shoulder bags are a good option for most people because they are easy to use, come in every shape and size, and make for quicker camera access than backpacks. That being said, I’ve found that different shooting situations call for different types of camera bags, which is why I own more than one. For this particular review I’ll focus on my primary bag, the Kata R102 backpack.

Because the majority of my photography takes place off the beaten path, I often prefer a backpack over a shoulder bag because it’s easier for me to carry while hiking. Previously I only carried my Lowepro Pro Mag II AW shoulder bag, which is an awesome bag, but it became too awkward to hike with as I started acquiring and carrying more gear. It wasn’t necessarily too heavy, but carrying all my gear over one shoulder was uncomfortable and kept me off balance while hiking with a camera and tripod. I tried a photo vest but that didn’t provide enough space or protection by itself. So, I started researching and shopping for a backpack.

I am fortunate to live near a very well stocked camera shop, Norman Camera. When I started searching for a backpack I took my gear to the store and tried out several different models. This was very helpful since an online picture can’t tell you how a pack will feel when fully loaded with gear. To make a long story short, I tried various models by Lowepro, Tamrac, Tenba and Kata. I think the most important thing about a backpack is the way it carries, which is why I chose the Kata. Nothing else even compared in my opinion.

Kata is an Israeli company that happens to make technical gear and body armor for the Israeli Armed Forces, so it should come as no surprise that their photo gear is top notch. Think simple, durable, lightweight, comfortable and very functional. The R102 is no exception. It has one main compartment that can be accessed via a main perimeter zipper or a convenient smaller front zipper. Inside the lid there is one large zippered compartment, and a small clear pocket. Externally there are two small pockets and removable tripod mount. The shoulder harness is extremely comfortable, very adjustable, and also includes a small removable waistbelt (which I never use). I honestly forget about this pack when I’m wearing it, and that’s saying a lot considering all I carry in it. One of the most unique aspects of this pack is its profile - it fits close to the body and isn’t excessively deep. It also comes with a waterproof raincover, which hasn’t failed me yet.

As you can see from the following pictures, the R102 will hold an ample amount of gear. This is my regular carrying setup: 300 f4 + TC-17, D200, 18-200 VR, 105 Macro, 80-200 f2.8, SB-800, raincover, RAINSLEEVE. Also inside is a filter wallet, Digital Survival Kit, a SingRay graduated ND, 3 memory cards, Giottos Rocket Blower, Light Disc, Flash X-tender, lens cloth, adaptor rings, and probably a few other things I can’t remember. In the two small external pockets I carry 3 spare batteries (D200), small collapsable tripod (for wireless flash), remote cable, and Petzl Zipka headlamp. Obviously, the amount of gear you plan to carry will dictate the size range of your bag or backpack. Hopefully this review will give you a sense of what the Kata will hold. My setup can easily change to include an additional body or smaller lens if I need be. Thanks to Kata’s removable dividers, all you have to do is move things around until everything fits to your liking. Take a look.

I always keep a heavy duty carabiner attached to the backpack so I can hang it from my tripod. This gives me extra stability and helps to reduce vibrations, which is very helpful in low-light & telephoto shooting.

In summary, if you’re looking for a capable, comfortable camera backpack, check out the Kata R-102. And for anyone interested in adding a laptop to your gear list, Kata makes the R-103, which is essentially the R-102 with a built in laptop sleeve. You can learn more by visiting the Kata website.