When working with Lowepro customers, the most common request I get is for the perfect camera bag.

If I ask for more detail, it goes something like this:

"I want it big enough to hold all of my gear, but it can't be too heavy. It needs to accommodate my DSLR kit, 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom, 15" laptop, flashes, tripod, and personal items, but it has to fit under the seat on the plane. I want to use it on the trail, in the city, and on the water. The bag needs to be comfortable, but I don't like a lot of straps. And if it could cost less than $100, that would be great."

"Hang on," I say, "I'll get back to you on that."

Camera bags are like life. You give up one thing to get another. You make priorities, and try for as many of them as reasonable. And in the end, you hope that a seam doesn't bust causing the whole thing to fall apart.

I've learned a lot through photography. I know how to travel. I'm better with people. And most importantly, I understand the necessity of compromise.

In fact, I'm glad there isn't a sublime camera bag. And I'm relieved that life isn't perfect either. Because if it were, there'd be nothing else to do.

And even worse, no new bags to try.

-Derrick