Guide to camera holders

Camera holdall
The most popular choice for photographers with an incredible choice of brands and styles. You can go for funky colourful numbers or more sedate greys and blacks. Basic ones have just an inner section while more advanced models have outer pockets and extra compartments in and around the bag. Features to consider include tripod straps, net pockets for easier viewing, cradle inner dividers, material used, carry handle. Buy one that's big enough for all the kit you have now with a bit of spare space for future items, but be aware that you could carry items around that you never use, So plan the content carefully.

Backpack
The choice of landscape and travel photographers. Used like a conventional backpack only this one will be full of all your valuable camera goodies. Secure compartments are essential so the inners don't collapse when it's in use. Also check for quality padded back and adjustable straps for comfort. Tripod straps may be included also hoops to attach accessory pouches. One with two compartments is better for long distance treks as you can store food and clothing in one and camera gear in the other. Weatherproof material is essential.

Ever Ready case
There was a time when everyone carried their cameras in these cases. The name ever ready is so called because the case fits snugly around the camera, but the top hinges over and falls below the camera so you can take a photo and then cover the camera again. Usually made of leather or high quality imitation these are very protective and compact but expensive and not practical if you also have a spare lens or flash to consider. A zoomster is a better option.

Pouch case
Sold in a wide variety of shapes these compact cases hold one camera and maybe a compact flash or few films. Most have padding and a belt loop to attach around your waist using your trousers belt. They are available for SLR cameras, lenses and compact cameras and can also be used for mobile phones larger flashguns and other similar items.

Aluminium case
These type of cases are usually silver or coated in black (sometimes coloured version can be found). Beware of cheap ones which are often made of compressed card with a fine coating to make them look more durable and metal. The real aluminium cases can be stood on to gain height in a crowd and offer excellent protection. The interior is usually either diced foam or has grooved adjustable partitions. They are often heavier than holdalls and not as comfortable to carry over a shoulder. They also look more expensive so can be tempting for thieves.

Zoomster
A very popular option in various depths to take different length lenses. Some have a long snout with a partition halfway down where an extra lens can be held. Some have adjustable partitions and a front pocket for filters and film. Look for one with a belt loop, carry handle and shoulder strap for maximum versatility. Avoid ones with the zip access across the top as this is not very protective against rain

Photographers vest
Made popular by photojournalists, sports and fashion photographers this waistcoat style piece of clothing has a multitude of pockets of varying size and depth. The idea is you can stash film, lenses, camera bodies, exposure meters, filters and flash guns around your body to give an even distribution of weight and make it easy to carry. They also allow quick access when you're in a hurry, providing you remember which pocket holds what! It's the gadget carrier's dream. I bet James Bond has one!

Waterproof case
Specialist camera cases made by just a few companies have O-ring waterproof seals so the case can be submerged in water. The inners have padded adjustable partitions or foam and they come in various dimensions to suit small or large outfits. Expensive, but essential for the rugged travel, industrial or location photographer.

Cycle bag
New style of bag with the fashionable cross over chest style strap that makes it better to use while cycling. These bags hug to the body so you can whizz around without it swinging all over the place.

Tripod case
A tripod is a cumbersome item so it makes sense to bag it. Many cases are available for varying lengths of tripod. Most have a shoulder strap and carrying handle.

Lens case
Compact pouches to hold lenses. Take your lens into the shop when buying one to make sure it fits snugly and is big enough to cover the lens and close properly. Ones with belt loops can be carried easily others add protection for the plastic bag approach to equipment carrying!

Raincover
Not a case as such but worthy of a mention. These hoods wrap around the camera while it's on a tripod and offer protection against the rain. They enclose the lens and camera body and have an opening that you look through to see the viewfinder.

Belt bag
A camera holdall that's shaped to your waist and has a built in wide belt for comfortable waist carriage. Better designed ones have the lid opening away from you so it's easier to access the gear inside.