Covering The Photo Beat
Tabletop Shooting Tents, Tripods, Bags, And More
By Robert E. Mayer   •   November, 2004 New OP/TECH Digital D-Series Camera Pouches
Two new sizes of easy-access neoprene cases, which fit most film and digital cameras, now accommodate SLR cameras having lenses up to 6” in length. They provide protection against impact, moisture and dust, and have non-marring snaps, which securely close the flap cover on the base of the pouch. A retaining strap attaches the case to the lens, keeping it out of the field of view when in use. They are said to be great for field situations as they are both lightweight and weather-resistant. The case closes around the camera’s neck strap so it’s still usable. The reasonable MSRPs are $30 and $36. Contact: OP/TECH USA, 304 Andrea Dr., Belgrade, MT 59714; (888) 678-3244; fax: (406) 388-2063; www.optechusa.com.

Reasonably Priced Ballistic SLR Bag
New from Ritz Camera Center stores is the Quantaray ballistic two-toned SLR bag. It’s large enough to hold a complete SLR system camera consisting of body, lens, flash, and filters and is offered in either black and gray or black and tan color schemes. Constructed of heavy-duty, water-resistant ballistic nylon fabric, the bag features a padded quick-release strap attachment and tripod straps. The front of the bag unzips to reveal a multi-section accessory storage area with an interior mesh pocket. With a lifetime warranty the bag is affordable at an MSRP of $40. Contact: Ritz Camera Centers, Inc., (877) 690-0099; www.ritzcamera.com.

Steadicam JR Now Includes Travel Case
The Tiffen Steadicam JR, with color monitor, now includes a free $99 value fitted travel soft case. Made of durable 600 denier fabric, the case will fit the Steadicam JR along with practically any mini DV or digital camcorder weighing up to 4 lbs. A contoured high-density foam insert cradles the contents while a large zippered outside compartment offers storage for needed accessories. It measures 17x8x8.5” and includes both an adjustable padded shoulder strap and cushioned carry handle. Contact: The Tiffen Company, LLC, 90 Oser Ave., Hauppauge, NY 11788; (631) 273-2500; fax: (631) 273-2557; www.tiffen.com.

Broad Line Of Tenba Travelite Carry Gear
A new line of Tenba Travelite lightweight pouches and bags accommodate a wide variety of equipment. Travelite pouches feature a simple, clean design constructed of lightweight materials that are rugged enough for everyday use. There are six different Travelite Point & Shoot pouches sized to accommodate sub-compact credit card-sized cameras to larger digicams with integrated 4x-10x optical zoom lenses. The exterior is a rugged Tenba DuraTek fabric with a gentle Tenba SofTek interior. The camera is reached via Tenba’s DryEdge Top Access System, which also protects the contents from inclement weather.A DoubleLock belt fastener makes it fit securely on your belt or strap. There are seven sizes of Tenba Travelite Shoulder Carry Gear sized to accommodate an SLR with a small lens all the way up to two camera bodies, five lenses, and a flash. There is plenty of room for additional accessories as there are many built-in EasySee mesh pockets. All Travelites are offered in three color combinations: black/gray, black/blue, and black/green. Street prices on the pouches range from $9-$17, while the prices on the Carry Gear bags are from $25-$67. Contact: Tenba, 8 Westchester Plaza, Elmsford, NY 10523; (914) 347-3300; fax: (914) 347-3309; www.TenbaGear.com.