Here’s an easy one: what’s the best way to carry camera lenses so that you can swap them out without digging through a backpack everytime?
I’ve picked up a camera-specific backpack, but it’s bulky and I don’t always carry it. If I’m travelling light and have two or three lenses, what’s a convenient, safe means of doing so? I was thinking that some sort of cup-holder-like belt attachment would do the trick, so long as they were padded and zipped up well enough.
Thanks.
You can get small bags that hold a camera plus 2-3 lenses that you wear around your waist. Either that or a small shoulder bag that does the same.
When I’m traveling light, I just throw an extra lens in the bag I usually have with me, which is a monk bag like the monks in Thailand carry. No padding, but as long as the lens caps are on it’s ok.
cfimages, you’re just full of info, aren’t ya?
Thanks. 
I’ve got a just-too-large, boxy shoulder bag that’s, well, just too large.
I replaced that with a just big enough, shaped deal, that’s got no room for a second lens.
Now, I need something that’s just right?
I’m Goldishutters.
I use both – single strap backpack and belt setups – though I use the belt + cup setup a lot more than I do the backpack for work. Works great while on the job (I shoot in ultra packed nightclub / event conditions and it’s way easier to squirm my way through crowds with the belt). It’s fairly light (with one cup / lens) and very low-key compared to the backpack.
With the belt setup + 1 medium cup, I can hold:
a Canon 5D
2 lenses up to the 85 1.2L size (or 3 if the lenses are near the 50mm f/1.4 size)
one 580ex flash + 3 sets of AA batteries (@4 batteries per set)
3 sets of 5D batteries
up to 6 CF cards
A flash cord (the size of a standard telephone cord)
a wireless remote (ST-E2)
The velcro linkages are pretty heavy duty but I secure the linkages with plastic tie downs just in case. While I’m not shooting (and everything is packed in) I sling it over my shoulder exactly the way I would my single strap backpack.
Works great for me since I usually carry no more than 2 or 3 lenses (all primes) with me anyways, unless I’m off on a long trip… in most cases tho, I prefer using the belt over back pack or side bag… thats me though. It’s not for everyone so definitely try it out before you buy it.
Single strap backpack —> lowepro.com/Products/Sling_Bags/
Modular belt system —> tamrac.com/welcome.htm
While wandering around Taida, I found a place called Rockland. Great little outdoors shop. And, they’ve got Crumpler bags. Picked up the perfect lens pouch.
Then added a pair of sandals (in my size!) and backpack.
Woo-hoo.