For photographers, the camera bag is an essential companion. It needs to be both functional and stylish, offering protection for your gear while complementing your personal aesthetic. Finding a bag that ticks all the boxes can be a challenge, but for over a year now, I’ve been using a Taz + Tez camera backpack, and it’s become a reliable and versatile part of my travel kit.
This review has been a long time coming, and in a way, that’s a good thing. It’s allowed me to truly put the bag through its paces, clocking up over 60,000 kilometres of travel. From the bustling streets of Melbourne to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily, the bag has been on countless adventures. It’s been tossed around on baggage carts, endured airport security checks, and even spent a day bouncing on a boat off the coast of Sicily. Remarkably, the bag continues to look great, even surpassing a genuine leather bag I own that’s seen significantly less use.
Currently, I use the Winnie, an earlier design from Taz + Tez. They’ve also released the Archy, both of which showcase the brand’s commitment to stylish camera bags. These backpacks offer ample storage space, with a focus on quality. The vegan leather feels great and has held up well to my travels. Another impressive feature is the removable padded insert. This keeps your camera gear organised and protected, ensuring your precious equipment arrives safely wherever your travels take you.
While the aesthetics and quality are undeniable, it’s important to acknowledge that functionality is just as crucial in a camera bag. In this regard, the Taz + Tez backpack delivers. There’s plenty of space for not just your camera body and lenses, but also additional essentials. The bag comfortably fits a laptop or tablet in a dedicated compartment, along with everyday essentials like a water bottle and phone charger. Easy access pockets on the front and sides allow you to grab those frequently used items on the go, making it perfect for capturing those spontaneous moments.
My experience with the Taz + Tez bag extends beyond its physical attributes. The story behind the brand certainly resonates. Founded by two sisters, Tara and Tessa, Taz + Tez was born out of a desire for stylish and functional camera bag. Their story highlights the frustration many photographers face – the choice between a bulky, utilitarian bag or a stylish one that lacks proper protection.
After countless trips and adventures, I can confidently say that the collection strikes a perfect balance between style and functionality. It’s a well-made, stylish bag that’s become a dependable companion on my photographic journeys.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist who values both aesthetics and protection, a Taz + Tez bag is definitely worth considering.