Recognizing a Quality Camera Case

The number of different sizes and styles of camera cases is amazing, and choosing the one that’s right for you can be difficult. While a lot of your choice should depend on the style and size that will work for you, it’s also important to consider the materials used in the construction of your camera case. They aren’t all made from top quality materials that will give your camera the best possible protection. Closed cell foam is the best form of cushioning inside a camera case. While almost any camera case, particularly in the larger models, will have some foam to absorb shocks and cushion the camera and lenses, some use open cell foam. Over time, this foam can fall apart, flake and become damaged. Open cell foam is also highly absorbent, which you don’t want. Closed cell foam is lightweight, won’t fall apart and can’t absorb water. You may never have to worry about water, but if you do drop your camera case in water, the last thing you want is foam padding that quickly soaks up water and drags your camera case down like a rock. Genuine Velcro fasteners make it easy to open and close your camera case without having to fumble with snaps or fasteners. You can open your bag with one hand and close it just as easily. The only exception would be on the belt or shoulder strap of a camera case. These should be snap-tight fasteners to ensure a snug, reliable fit that won’t come undone when you’re moving around. Check out the lining of any camera case you’re considering. A soft, pill-resistant lining is a must so that there are no exposed seams that could fray and scratch your camera lens. Not all camera cases are fully lined, which is unfortunate. Everyone backs their case a bit differently, and while the manufacturer may think the lined pocket is for lenses and the unlined one is fine for keys, you may want to switch things up, in which case if the bag isn’t fully lined, you’ll risk damaging your camera lens. A top quality camera case will be made of water-resistant nylon or neoprene. You can find some truly luxurious looking leather camera cases, but these are more attractive than they are practical. Neoprene holds up under any weather condition, is water resistant, lightweight and easy to clean. Leather is ruined by water exposure and quickly absorbs dirt, grime and sweat. All you need to clean a neoprene or nylon camera case is a damp cloth or sponge. If you’re using your camera and gear outside frequently, you’ll be glad you went for an easy clean camera case. Finally, look for thoughtful features such as mesh pockets. These make it easy to see what you’re looking for. They’re great for storing extra memory or batteries and take up only as much space as needed for whatever they’re holding. Mesh pockets give you flexibility that fully closed pockets don’t. The most important component of a well-made camera case is the warranty. In today’s market, you can find camera bags with warranties that last anywhere from a year to ten years, or you can find a lifetime warranty against defects. Don’t settle for anything less than a lifetime warranty. If your camera bag was constructed properly with the materials we’ve discussed above, it should easily last you a lifetime.