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785 Review
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Review on Tenba DNA 15 Backpack Graphite by Draven Louton

Revainrating 5 out of 5

This is the best camera backpack I have ever used!

I've had a lot of camera cases and I mean A LOT! I have used backpacks, messenger bags and slings. Let me preface my comments by acknowledging that there are many personal preferences when it comes to liking or disliking a particular bag. The perfect bag for me might be anathema to you. However, the Tenba DNA 15 backpack is the best camera backpack I have ever used. Sometimes I still use a shoulder bag, but mostly I find a backpack more useful. I love being able to carry non-camera related items like jackets and shoulder bags, which isn't great. The top compartment of the Tenba DNA 15 offers plenty of space for these items. In the lower fold-out part there is a removable camera insert, which can even be placed in the upper part if desired. It's big enough to hold a decent body and a couple of lenses. I currently carry my Sony RX10 IV (not a small camera!) on one side of the insert and on the other side I carry 2 different 360 cameras, a full set of Moment lenses, a set of ND filters for the RX10 IV and a power supply. There is unused space underneath the RX10 IV so I could pack more stuff if needed. Portability and Capacity: I find this backpack to be quite comfortable to carry. I wear it on hikes and just walk around town, no complaints. Remember this is NOT a "quick access" camera case. If you want to access your hardware, you'll need to remove it to reveal the underside. I solve this dilemma by using the Peak Design Capture Clip for my RX10 IV when I know I will be using the camera while driving. Just don't over-tighten the Capture Clip and don't keep it on the shoulder strap the whole time - this will eventually break the foam of the shoulder strap. I did exactly that, but after a few weeks the foam had mostly expanded to its original thickness. The top has a unique rotating tray that allows it to be expanded to carry more items. It closes with Velcro when rolled up, but there's also an adjustable strap with a very smart magnetic clasp that keeps it securely closed. Be careful with this latch as it is quite strong. Once he bit my finger! Ouch! Weatherproof: The Tenba DNA 15 backpack is made of waterproof material. It should be able to handle light rain or fog. I've only used it once when it was wet (I live in the Southwest desert which is usually dry) and for that occasion I used the included rain cover which kept the bag and contents dry. It's nice that Tenba stocks their bags with rain covers, which I think all camera bag manufacturers should do. End up expensive photo gear + water = no good. Complaints: There is no such thing as a perfect bag, but for me this one comes close. I really only have 2 small flaws: (1) The outer fabric pocket closes with a small snap that is very difficult to snap, especially when there is something in the pocket. I think a small Velcro strip would have worked much better. (2) I wish there were a few more small pockets in the bag. I'm a bit spoiled by the Tenba DNA messenger bag, which has lots of little pockets.

Pros
  • Very impressive
Cons
  • boring packaging