Question about camera bags from a DSLR newbie

[Ronisdragon]

Hi. I'm looking for suggestions. I am getting my very first SLR camera and one lens so of course I need a camera bag. I want to carry my camera with me and have the bag serve as a purse. I'd love something purse like and kind of feminine. The catch is that I'd like to be as close to $50 as possible. Does something like what I'm describing even exist in that price range? There are so many adorable bags out there for $100+ but I just can't afford that. Have any of you gotten the Bags from crumpler that are meant to fit inside any bag? What do you think of those. Will a camera and one or two smaller lenses be too heavy to carry in a bag without a super padded strap? I might have to settle for one of the messanger style bags at my local camera store. It certainly isn't feminine but it doesn't scream camera either. Thanks so much for your help! Have a great day, Roni

 

[Cristina]

I am getting my very first SLR camera and one lens so of course I need a camera bag

I beg to differ... For just the camera with a tiny lens like the 50mm, there is no need to get a camera bag. You can fit it in a medium sized purse. Unless you need something padded for travel.. I did buy a camera bag (just a traditional one) that I use when I'm bringing my zoom lens and other lenses, but I only use that when I'm going out of town.

Here's the size of handbag I normally carry (sorry, the picture is small, and the bag looks bigger than it really is):


I will not enable you with the fancy purses/camera bags out there... I'm sure someone else will do that later. I don't have one even though I agree they are beautiful. But for every day, I prefer a smaller bag.

 

[Ronisdragon]

I got a beautiful used bag from someone one here at TLP. It is beautiful and the within my budget. I'm so excited. I can't wait to get it! Thanks for your feedback Christina!