Best Camera Hard Cases for Photographers – Complete Guide
When it comes to traveling with photography equipment, the best camera hard cases for photographers are essential. There are a variety of hard cases on the market. They are designed to accommodate everything from large Cine cameras, drones, DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, and smaller point-and-shoot models, and lenses.
Many hard cases come with a variety of compartments and pockets. Making it easy to organize and transport all of your photography equipment. When choosing a camera hard case, it is important to select a model that is specifically designed for your gear. This will ensure a snug fit and the best possible protection for your equipment. In this guide, we will walk through some of the things to note when looking for the ultimate storage solution.
Why You Need a Hard Case
Hard cases are designed to safeguard your gear from impact, weather, and other potential hazards. They are made from durable materials like aluminum or polycarbonate, and often feature foam padding or other forms of shock absorption. This will help to cushion your equipment in the event of a drop, knock, or other accident.
How to Choose a Hard Case for Your Camera Gear
When purchasing a hard case, there are a few features that you should consider. Not all products and brands are made the same. These include:
Size of the Hard Case
It is important to consider the size of hard cases for a variety of reasons. First, hard cases come in different sizes, so it is critical to choose the right size for your needs. Look for a size guide or check the specifications for the models you are looking at and compare the dimensions against your equipment.
If you choose a hard case that is too small, you may not be able to fit all of your lenses or spare camera bodies inside. On the other hand, if you choose a hard case that is too large, it may be difficult to transport.
Durability
While they are not indestructible, hard cases can provide a high level of protection for your camera gear. And, if you happen to damage your hard case, most manufacturers offer replacement parts or repairs under their limited lifetime warranties. When you are looking to buy your first hard case, you may notice all of them are made from polyurethane.
This is because the material is easy to mold and withstands scratches while being durable, lightweight, affordable, and resilient. In terms of strength, a high-quality hard case can withstand over 100 kg of external force while your equipment remains safe inside the case.
Portability
It’s important to look not just at how much the hard case can hold, but also at the ability to move the case around. There’s no point buying a large hard case only to find that it requires two people to move it after all the gear has been added
Inserts
Inserts are essential for keeping your camera gear safe and organized. Some hard cases come with basic foam inserts, but you can purchase additional storage options that may better suit the type of camera equipment you use. To give you an idea of what’s available, here is a rundown of the different types of inserts on the market:
Foam inserts: Foam inserts are a popular option for hard cases as they provide the greatest protection for your gear. They are available in various densities. Also, many brands include pre-cut foam you can remove to fit your gear perfectly.
Dividers: Dividers are ideal for hard cases that need to accommodate multiple items, such as lenses. They help to keep your gear separate and organized, and can also be used to create custom compartments. Dividers are typically made from removable velcro fabric strips.
Pouches: Pouches are a great way to keep small items organized and protected. They can be attached to the inside lid of your hard case or stored separately. Pouches come in various sizes and materials. Check to see if the manufacturer has specific options to suit the case you are looking to buy.
Bottom Line
Hard cases are a necessary piece of gear for professional, enthusiast, and amateur photographers alike. They protect your camera, camcorder, and lenses from the elements, scratches, and other damage while you’re on location or traveling. Not all camera cases are created equal It’s important to do your research before purchasing one. Consider the size of the case, durability, portability, and insert options.
