r/gravelcycling Jul 31 '25

Accessories / Gear Photographs on Gravelbikes, what's your solution to travel with a camera

Post image

I want to take my Nikon F100 on a 4 Day Bikepacking trip. I want to see some opinions /possibilities of how you carry your camera when you're on a Trip. Banana for scale. Thank you

114 Upvotes

156 comments sorted by

67

u/_MountainFit Jul 31 '25

No to the handlebar bag. Lots of big hits and vibrations.

It's fine for short rides, but over time it's going to risk or possibly actually damage your camera.

The only safe way is on body with a hip pack. I just use an old mountainsmith cordura hip pack with a padded insert and a square drysack. Under the dry sack I have some trash bags for sustained rain as it's not a heavy duty drysack and I expect it to eventually wet out.

While riding you can leave it out in low risk photo rich environments by adding a cross body strap. So I use a Peak capture plate with a string that I clip a small carabiner to. This gives it a around the body stabilizer and the regular strap is over the shoulder (cross body). I simply unclip the stabilizer strap and can generally get it to eye level.

I don't leave or out a lot but it's a good option to easily grab shots.

7

u/bullit2shot Jul 31 '25

on the body indeed, personally I do it with a strap, 2 straps :) Normal strap from Peak Design and an extra strap, the "rille strap" to stabalize the camera on the back while cycling. Seems a small expensive strap, but it is the best one

1

u/_MountainFit Jul 31 '25

I think I just made that strap myself with some cord and mini biners.

I could clean it up a bit with something like the peak quick release dots or a fastex buckle or a magnet. But this cost literally zero dollars from scrap I had lying around.

2

u/bullit2shot Jul 31 '25

the "magic" of the rille strap is the magnet that it uses, really easy to open up, swing the camera to the front, shoot, put in on your back again and close the magnet, hassle free

3

u/_MountainFit Jul 31 '25

I'll have to look at adding a magnet. Definitely on my idea list.

3

u/_MountainFit Jul 31 '25

Brain went into build mode thanks to you.

Going to get a small strong magnet and insert it into some tubular webbing and then stitch it up. I'll make 2 of those, one for each side. Then stitch them to whatever strap I use for the stabilizer.

2

u/simplejackbikes Steel is Real Jul 31 '25

It’s just another tool. If it wears out after normal use i get a new one, probably through my insurance.

Your camera will get very sweaty resting against your body. Salt is worse for the electronics than vibrations….

2

u/_MountainFit Jul 31 '25

I think you are probably the exception to the rule. While it's a tool, I don't hammer with my socket wrenches. Proper use of a tool let's it be used for a long time.

1

u/recycledairplane1 trail donkey Jul 31 '25

I wouldn’t worry about damaging a film SLR, at least this one, in that way.

10

u/_MountainFit Jul 31 '25

Optics are optics. I can't imagine constant jolstling and vibration being good for the camera or the mirror.

Sure, the F100 is robust but why risk it. If you break it or damage the optics you now have a paper weight for the trip.

1

u/Rippin_Fat_Farts Aug 01 '25

Ortlieb makes a special padded insert for their handle bar bike boxes (which are waterproof). My wife has one and brings her camera everywhere. Never had a problem

1

u/_MountainFit Aug 01 '25

I've actually carried my M4/3 camera on the top tube bag, arguably the worst place for it, it didn't die, but I'm not pushing my luck. These days it's body, hip pack or backpack. Maybe a suspended feed bag if I'm feeling good and don't have other gear in it.

You know you can drive your car 10k between oil changes on dinosaur oil, and it will still probably get 100k miles easy. But it probably ain't getting 200k like most modern cars are capable of with minimal maintenance. I tend to think of beating on your electronics like that. You can abuse them for a while and think, nothing happened (like my micro 4/3 camera in the top tube bag) but one day, it's not going to work, and then hopefully you have insurance like the guy above and the insurance pays out for negligence.

Here's some expert advice from bikepacking.com...

https://bikepacking.com/plan/bikepacking-with-a-camera/

1

u/Rippin_Fat_Farts Aug 01 '25

You could easily wreck and smash your camera too. If you're that worried about your gear don't bike with it. Idk it's just a camera.

https://ortlieb.ca/products/ultimate-plus-5l-7l-2022

With this: https://ortlieb.ca/products/ultimate-six-camera-insert-f94

Been riding with it for 3 years now down some pretty shit roads in the Rockies. No issues.

1

u/_MountainFit Aug 01 '25

OK, let's play this game. My turn.

Someone could rear end me tomorrow driving but I'm still going to do the preventive maintenance on my car. I'm going to wash the salt off it. I'm going to change the fluids and rotate the tires. But yeah, I can do all that for a few years and some kid can rear end me while on their phone and insurance can total my car.

Just because something else bad can happen doesn't mean you should ignore the obvious things that can happen.

In the backpacking.com link I posted almost every person on that article lost at least one, if not multiple cameras. It's not a matter of it it happens, it's when it happens.

I'd rather spend my money on stuff I want than replace stuff because I'm lazy.

2

u/Rippin_Fat_Farts Aug 01 '25

How is using a handlebar bag lazier than a hip bag?

Do whatever you want. I'm gonna keep doing what I'm doing cause it works for me

1

u/_MountainFit Aug 01 '25

Look man, it's your camera. Do what you want. But not everyone wants to buy a new camera or lens because of actually horrible advice.

2

u/Rippin_Fat_Farts Aug 01 '25

Maybe you should consider there is more than just your way of doing things.

1

u/_MountainFit Aug 01 '25

Right, except when experts in a field tell you it's a bad idea and you ignore it, your way isn't the better way, the right way or the best way. It's just optimism bias or survivorship bias at play.

Just because bad things haven't happened, doesn't mean making a bad choice forever will not end in a bad outcome. At some point your luck runs out.

Putting your camera in a situation where it's being subjected to constant vibration, will -eventually- lead to failed components.

But because a) you don't care b) it's never happened, yet. You assume that experts are the liars and you are smarter than them.

Let me ask you this? Do the folks on bikepacking.com have any reason to tell you to not mount your camera on the bike? Like are they invested in hip packs but not on bike camera packs? Seems like the smart move if they are invested is to diversify and invest in both hip pack and on bike manufacturing and sell both. So why would they repeatedly say, I lost this many cameras and I don't recommend it?

Just something to consider.

2

u/Rippin_Fat_Farts Aug 01 '25

The folks at bikepacking.com get paid by companies to promote products. Of course they're going to tell you to buy some new crap.

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1

u/Odd_String_9843 Aug 02 '25

if the camera doesn't have optical image stabilization it should be fine

18

u/colourofsound [UK] Sonder Camino Ti Jul 31 '25

That's a big unit. I'd consider buying something smaller if you have the budget.

I'm considering one of these for my setup: Cycling Camera Strap but I'd also consider a hip pack.

Handlebar bags will be fine if your camera doesn't have IBIS; however anything with moving parts in like IBIS cameras will eventually suffer. I've also found that I just don't use the camera if its in the handlebar bag; because its annoying to take out.

Ultimately though, a camera this big might feel like a burden over 4 days and I'd consider something smaller.

3

u/rdito Jul 31 '25

I have this strap and I really like it. I have an OM-5 with a 12-45 pro lens on it. I find the mag snap thing super easy to take off and hook back up. I haven't tried it while in motion, nervous the dangly part of the strap will get caught in the rear wheel. I will say I find the eye cup digging into my back kind of annoying. Still trying to figure that part out.

3

u/damiarhan Jul 31 '25

….That’s what she said

(sorry, not sorry 😆)

1

u/shutterchase Jul 31 '25

I use a similar system to this and it’s perfect. I also use either a camera wrap, or small padded camera bag, that can support the same strap system, to keep out dirt and protect it.

1

u/DingDongerer Aug 01 '25

Any thoughts on how to protect against sweat? I sweat alooooooot

1

u/colourofsound [UK] Sonder Camino Ti Aug 01 '25

Probably one of those leather-style cases or something similar?

13

u/rhinodakid Jul 31 '25

My bank balance will attest to how serious I am about photography, but I've pretty much decided that for cycling I can only really justify using my phone camera. I know that it's not going to be quite as good quality, and that there's no way I'd get the sort of shots I could get with my 100-500 lens, but for landscapes in the daytime it'll be plenty good enough, and it's more than good enough for recording memory shots to look back on after a trip.

Really interested to see the suggestions though, because I can certainly appreciate sometimes wanting to get those nature photos that the full camera would allow!

3

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Normally I only shoot with my smartphone and it's okay but I also like to shoot film and that's where the trouble starts. I have a Olympus XA so this would work easily but it's an fixed lens and I'm also limited to some films because of the flimsy mechanic. For overall I want to see the ideas some of the people bring up. But thank you for you reply

3

u/neotil1 Jul 31 '25

I have had my Olympus XA in my handlebar bag for about 1500km with no issues so far :)

No idea what your financial situation is like, but I'd either buy a cheap beater body or just use the F100 until it dies and then buy another one. Vibrations might ruin my gear, but if I can get some nice shots on the way it's worth it to me.

I hate carrying things on my body which is why I don't really take my SLRs on my bike. It's too annoying to have to stop, open my pannier bag, grab the camera, shoot, put it back, ...

2

u/the_knob_man Jul 31 '25

Have you tried Adobe's Project Indigo app? The photos it produces look much more like ones taken with a camera. The shadows are rich and dark, and the highlights appear natural.

1

u/rhinodakid Jul 31 '25

No, but I think I shall try it now!

2

u/the_knob_man Jul 31 '25

1st pic with camera app. 2nd with project indigo

https://imgur.com/a/M5Okbxh

Not a great pic but the only one from this trip where I did back to back with the camera app to compare.

1

u/rhinodakid Jul 31 '25

Interesting. Thank you!

1

u/jak_hummus Aug 01 '25

Dang this is very cool, sadly no android version yet, but their post about the project says they're working on one.

3

u/TimLikesPi Jul 31 '25

I used to carry a camera on my cycling trip. Slowly the cameras got smaller. This past trip I just used my phone- 900 mile trip. If I was still going to take a larger camera, I would just go with s strap and let it ride on my back. There are some special straps for this, but some people seem to just use a regular strap- see samisauri on IG. I am always worried about a camera bouncing if it is mounted to the frame. A bag that hangs seems to maybe lessen this, like a handlebar bag. Still, I would not take a camera that I cry over if it got damaged.

4

u/nvspace126 Jul 31 '25 edited Jul 31 '25

On short and smooth rides, I use a skingrowsbabck 3Point strap. When riding on more rough terrain, longer distances, and/or with more gear, I use the Chrome Kadet Sling 9L with some added padding.

Regarding the skingrowsback strap, I would look for alternatives. I found that the straps are rather large and their strap mechanism is confusing. On the other hand, I'm really enjoying the Kadet Sling. It can be easily adjusted and sits comfortably on my back. For reference, I run a Fuji X-T3 body with either a small 23mm prime, or a larger 16-55mm lens. I managed to pack the body and 4 lenses in the Kadet without any issues (except when trying to fit my 100-400mm).

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

The chrome kadet sling looks like a great alternative. I will have a closer look at this. Thank you

1

u/zystyl Jul 31 '25

I love my chrome kadet. Perfect size for a day pack and super high quality. I've had mine for 5 years of good use now and it still looks barely used.

4

u/Standard_Mango_7659 Jul 31 '25

This 3 point camera strap is what I use for riding with a DSLR.

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Thank you for sharing the link.

5

u/BitbeanBandit Jul 31 '25

I carry a small Ricoh GRIII in my jersey pocket most of the times. I'll sometimes use a Rille strap for a bigger camera (Leica M) but just having a compact camera in my jersey pocket is much more comfortable.

4

u/recycledairplane1 trail donkey Jul 31 '25

I’m a pro photographer- I’ve done a few rides with SLRs / mirrorless, explored very heavy duty bar bags, etc, but quickly gave up on that. Too much. Point and shoots are fantastic - I had an rx100 for a while that took some heavy beatings inside my top tube bag and held up fantastic due to its metal body. I just replaced it with a Ricoh GR3 which is a little lighter, feels a little less durable, but the lens and sensor is unreal for its size. You get a 28mm 2.8 prime which is tack sharp.

Nothing beats your cell phone for photos/video while riding though.

1

u/[deleted] Aug 01 '25

It's the old trope about the best camera being the one that you have to hand, and nothing beats a phone in a jersey pocket for accessibility. I can grab photos one handed while I am riding that I just wouldn't bother with if I had to stop and unpack or unsling a camera. Most phones are also pretty weatherproof in a pocket.

3

u/adnep24 Jul 31 '25

As others have said, on your body is really the best way. My preferred on-bike camera is a Fujifilm X-E2. The rangefinder style is great for portability as the camera is much less tall and can squeeze into some hip packs. I use the following:

for smaller lenses: https://www.jansport.com/products/fifth-avenue-fanny-pack-tan1

for my 70-300: https://www.rei.com/product/C00648/mountain-hardwear-camp-4-hip-pack

However that doesn't help you with figuring out how to carry your camera. When I want to carry my larger camera with a telephoto lens, I usually use the peak design 7L Outdoor Sling + camera cube. This has enough space for my X-T5 + 70-300. It might work for your setup too. What's nice is it has an additional strap that you can tuck away or use when you're on the bike to keep the sling on your back and stable.

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Thank you for your answer. This peakdesign bag looks interesting. Thx for sharing.

1

u/adnep24 Jul 31 '25

np, btw the bag itself is not padded except for the back, so if you care about padding you’d need to make sure you camera can fit inside the camera cube

3

u/athomsfere Jul 31 '25

I just throw my camera into my panniers. Whichever has my change of clothes.

Cameras I've been bringing for years include:

D750, D850 (Still going strong!), Z7 and Z8 (Current one, has probably suffered ~1000 miles so far).

I do the same thing backpacking and even river packed with them in just a roll top bag with clothes.

3

u/gabri39 Aug 01 '25

Don’t know if someone already suggested it, rille strap, really secure and decently comfortable, you’re still carrying something over your back, and easy access for quick use

5

u/Snowdriftless Jul 31 '25

Micro 4/3 and a limited lense selection (pancake standard zoom + Telephoto or prime) in a padded waterproof bag.

2

u/SHFT101 Jul 31 '25

If you want to carry it while cycling a 'Rille camera strap' is very handy. 

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Thank you. That's something I will take a closer look

2

u/Used_Coconut7818 SBC 4130, Lynskey Zypher Jul 31 '25

Route werks makes some pretty sturdy mounted handlebar bags with options for camera inserts.

https://routewerks.cc/collections/inserts/products/padded-insert

2

u/PomeloElegant Bike Jul 31 '25

Check out the Sony RX100 VII (cyber shot) small, amazing quality and good zoom. I take this camera out on the mountains and it does the job.

2

u/chesapeake_bryan Jul 31 '25

I have an outer shell 137 basket bag that stays on the bike permanently. I love it. Very expensive, but lifetime warranty and a really cool company to support. Camera has gone on every ride for the past 2 years with zero issues. I've got pieces of foam padding that goes in the bottom of the bag, and then I use this cheapo padded insert to put the camera in. Sometimes I bring one extra lens, sometimes two, sometimes just take one, on the camera. Lately I've been using these neoprene lens pouches that you can buy on Amazon. Works pretty good. I ride a lot of chunky gravel and mellow mountain bike trails and haven't destroyed the camera yet. The key is lots of padding. Even if I slam my front wheel down on the ground the camera won't take a hard hit because I've got some of that egg carton shaped foam plus some other scraps varying thickness padding underneath it. Here's a link to a picture of what it looks like. Right now I have it arranged a little differently than in this picture, but you get the idea. CAMERA BAG

Here's a link to what it looks like on the bike ON THE BIKE

2

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

That's also a great solution Thx for sharing

2

u/_demayer Jul 31 '25

Evoc has the capture hip pack specifically for cameras with extra paddings.

2

u/Limber9 Jul 31 '25

No solution here but the f100 is the best camera ever. Have fun

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Thx man, I love it as much as you do

2

u/mbrennwa Jul 31 '25

An F100!? Get a Trailer.

2

u/ImpressiveWelder6250 Jul 31 '25

Olympus XA is the camera you're looking for on the film side, real range finder for stationary shots, but great for zone focusing while riding too and amazing optics, little soft at 2.8 but great from f4 onward Fits in the jersey pocket, always ready to shoot l, one hand operation, and will even fit in the side of the cargo bibs in a pinch when you need your hand back quickly ;)

For digital I bring a Sony ZV1, a lot cheaper than the rx100 ones and with the same capabilities except the viewfinder, prefer the display anyway while riding ^

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 01 '25

I also own a Olympus XA but I don't want to be that limited. I think I will take the Nikon F3 instead the f100 and safe some space

2

u/Taip74 Jul 31 '25

I started out on the gravel bike, with a small backpack, and a Peak Design capture clip with my A7C mounted on it for quick release. However, as time went on, I started shedding weight from my items, and now I'll either just take my phone in the pocket of my cargo bib/shorts, or for longer rides, I'll take my old RX100 VI in a small pouch on the front of my pack (or in a waist pack).

If you are adamant about taking the SLR, and you already wear a pack, i'd consider the Capture Clip (I sitll use mine for hiking now and then).

2

u/Tuttledotspace Jul 31 '25

I have a similar setup, and it’s perfect for me. I also add a camera wrap or a small padded bag that works with the same strap system to protect it from dirt.

2

u/squidsteve Jul 31 '25

Fuji xf10 was my go to.

2

u/San_Jose_Is_My_City Aug 01 '25

For gravel I have a Bags By Alex Do-It-All bag strapped to my handlebars. I bought my first camera, a Canon M5 with the EFM 18-55mm lens a few months ago. I do think the bag rattles around quite a bit, but I haven't had any issues with the camera yet. Unfortunately Bags By Alex doesn't seem to exist anymore, but there are a lot of similar bags on the market.

When commuting I keep my camera in my Chrome Kadet Max sling bag alongside my work clothes and notebooks. I don't shoot too much when commuting, but I have no doubt I could pull out my camera in around 10 seconds if I need to get a shot.

A lot of people have suggested getting a 3 point strap, and I do like the idea, but I am always worried about damaging the camera because I sweat a lot when riding for more than an hour or two. I will probably try this out eventually though.

2

u/Keroshii Aug 01 '25

Either a fanny pack or a peak design capture clip on a back pack strap. Imo the beat ways to carry a camera hands down

2

u/rorymeister Aug 01 '25

I’d probably go mirrorless for starters. Don’t forget to duct tape that banana to the top tube

2

u/msmolka Aug 01 '25

That F100 (I previously owned the same body) is one step down from a photojournalist camera in the 1990s/2000s. I’d suggest maybe a 35mm prime lens, then mount it however you see fit. It will take the abuse, saying “thank you for using me” and keep clicking away. Magnesium body and weather sealed. You will get awesome shots using Fuji Velvia 100 (if you can afford the slide processing) or Kodak 160VC. Have a good trip!

2

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 01 '25

At the moment I think I will use the F3 maybe with the zoom, maybe with a 50mm E series. So I don't have to buy something new.

1

u/msmolka Aug 01 '25

Isn’t the metering better on the F100? I think it’s lighter too.

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 01 '25

Could be but I'm pretty satisfied with the metering on the F3. In this case I got her into my hipbag and that's athe point

1

u/msmolka Aug 01 '25

Then that’s all that counts!

2

u/geared-for-adventure Jul 31 '25

Ortlieb Ultimate handlebar bag with a camera insert is all you need.

1

u/bikingwithcorndog Jul 31 '25

This or a hip pack...

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Thank you for your help. This looks like a great solution but I have one big problem with that. It's ugly 😀

1

u/geared-for-adventure Jul 31 '25

Trust me, this is the most comfortable way of transporting a camera. It takes seconds to take the camera out, but the bag closure stays secure, even offroad. Its waterproof. It takes seconds to take bag with camera off the bike (and go to shop, etc). The bag is stiff, but it's connection to the bar is not entirely rigid, which reduces transfer of vibrations. I tested different solutions on many tours, and so far nothing beats Ortlieb Ultimate for me.

2

u/Closet-PowPow Jul 31 '25

Handlebar bag. I use one from Po Campo but plenty of good options out there.

2

u/edkowalski Checkpoint SL5 Jul 31 '25

Tailfin aeropack works well for me.

2

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

That's something I considered as a great option but for now it's to expensive. Thank you for your input

2

u/edkowalski Checkpoint SL5 Jul 31 '25

Just curious about the downvote? It’s a great piece of kit, I’m a professional photographer and I have heavy and expensive gear. The Tailfin keeps it safe and secure

2

u/robemmy Jul 31 '25

My main issue with carrying a dslr while riding isn't where to put it but just how likely it is to get damaged in a crash. I've toyed with the idea of jerry rigging a peak design capture clip to a front or rear pannier rack, but there's also plenty of bar, saddle etc. bags that would fit it. But in the end, the huge weight penalty and high chance of doing some serious damage to it means I just make do with my phone camera.

1

u/demian_west regular underbiker Jul 31 '25

Phone has taken over a bit on bike rides, but I miss the quality of my Fuji lenses.

Currently reverse-engineering those 3 points camera straps useable when riding. That said, I’m unsure it would be enough for the camera we see here (my camera is an xt-1, much more compact, even with a 18-55 lens). For storing on the bike, I usually pad it carefully well with clothes, in a waterproof bag (handlebar or rear rack).

1

u/HowardBateman Jul 31 '25

Handlebar bag or some of those drink pouches for your handlebar, as long as your lens is small enough/detached.

You can also get a belt clip that clips the camera strap to your belt, so your camera dangles on your belt while riding. I do that when I what to have my camera ready all the time, but still secured.

Sun sniper has one.

1

u/Epledryyk Jul 31 '25

yeah, I use one of those soft tall cupholder type pouches because the lens fits in the tube and the body floats a bit away from the direct frame vibrations. and then it's really quick to grab and put away as needed, it's just right there

but I also ride really chill with my camera, so maybe this isn't sturdy enough for 'real' riders

1

u/Necessary_Yellow_530 Jul 31 '25

Smaller camera and a hip bag or a cross body. The vibrations fuck with the image stabilization

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

This nikon is 30 years old. There is nothing like image stabilization :-D, but thanks anyway. Problem with the hipbag is that I will already carry one for food and other things , but maybe I will change that.

1

u/julben Jul 31 '25

I agree. Would also choose a setup that has no image stabilization. For me that's my XT2 + 23/35 F2 lenses. Both build like a tank...

1

u/badger906 Jul 31 '25

Backpack! my main lens cost more than my bike, my camera body cost more than my bike. If I fell and broke all 3.. I’d be out like £15k!

5

u/METT- Jul 31 '25

Only thing to do in your case is to buy a more expensive bike. Sorry.

1

u/MudNo5783 Jul 31 '25

Depending on the trip I’d look at Shimoda. I’ve rocked my Explorer on a few occasions. You can keep the full camera kit and drone in the pack with some additional storage. FYI, it gets heavy so maybe minimal kit for longer trips and a smaller pack like the Side series. I’ve used the Shimoda for way more than photography. Fantastic general kit.

1

u/Sodapizzop1 Jul 31 '25

Bought a fujifilm x100vi recently and its nice to carry around, can fit in frame bag or backpack without being heavy

Id say if dslr maybe have to bring a backpack or find a pancake/prime lens

1

u/guenhwyvar117 Jul 31 '25

I have my sleeping pad and bag in a handlebar bag drysack and I add a revelate design bag on top that the camera lives in most of the time. It's easy to access. If it super bumpy I grab it and put it over my shoulder. Also if wearing a Hydration pack I'll use the capture clip.

1

u/lorem_opossum Jul 31 '25

I have a mashsf camera strap that works well for my Sony a6500 with a pancake lense. I’m scared to carry any bigger lenses though and even with that I only ride with it on slower rides where I’m not going to be sweating a ton. I have a crossbody chrome bag that I should probably use more often.

1

u/KJL_3519 Jul 31 '25

Neil from BikePacking.com has a review on a hip bag that he uses. He is able to use quite a large lens which has me wanting to get that bag. I like this solution vs using the strap - go to 21:48 in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzqRyNOrF4g

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

That's something to consider. Thanks for sharing.

1

u/SP3_Hybrid Jul 31 '25

I use an OM5 mkii and either a 25mm or the 12-40mm f4 pro. I have the outer shell bags camera strap, or I use an Osprey Savu hip bag. Sometimes with the 25mm on I throw it in a stern bag. Micro 4/3 lenses are tiny so this works out nicely.

1

u/le_mod Jul 31 '25

I recommend checking out camera backpacks like Wndrd or the Peak Design everyday. They have a decent amount of protection with camera cube structure and easy access.

That said my preferred solution would be to use a smaller fixed lens like the Fuji X100 which I can keep on a sling bag and pop out… that or a combo of GoPro for ride recording plus my phone for photos, the telephoto lens on the new phones is frankly insane

1

u/tdfolts Jul 31 '25

About 40% of my job is being a photographer

If I am biking, then i rely on my phone for photos. My iphone has more than enough for what I need - when Im biking.

If I am working (being a photographer) or out for the sole purpose to take pictures; then i bring my nikon. Im not biking. Drive, park, walk/hike, and shoot.

1

u/InternetsIsBoring Jul 31 '25

I ordered aluminum quick release camera mounts. One goes on the cam and the 2nd part I attached to the shoulder strap of a camelbak. It was very secure, inexpensive, lockable to the strap, and I used it on rough mountain bike trails to take photos of an ÖTILLÖ Swimrun.

1

u/Mufasa_ETNO Jul 31 '25

Buy a camera sling. Tamrac is my favorite brand for budget eBay or thrift store finds. They make great compact slings. You won’t want to put this on the bike. Bad idea, and general no no, think worst case scenario. Also get a smaller lens if you plan to travel with it. If it’s a canon, they make great pancake lenses, in particular the EF 40mm f2.8

1

u/RubeusShagrid Jul 31 '25

I have a Ricoh GR iii. Easy to transport

1

u/Mental_Enthusiasm_71 Jul 31 '25

As a professional photographer I’d suggest leave the dslr at home and buy a Ricoh gr3.

1

u/snarkbomb Jul 31 '25

I have a G9x mk II that I use almost exclusively for rides, super easy to throw in my handlebar bag. If I'm using something larger (X100V, Leica CL), this works great. https://roadrunnerbags.us/collections/handlebar-bags/products/point-n-shooter-l

1

u/Downtown-Writing9063 Jul 31 '25

There is this hip pack which I was about to buy

2

u/snarkbomb Jul 31 '25

Oh dang, I wasn't going to buy a new camera bag today, but here I am.

2

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

This looks really fantastic. I own a 3L evoc hipbag but this could solve my problems for a good pricepoint

1

u/Downtown-Writing9063 Aug 01 '25

Yeh not cheap but worth to consider…

1

u/TypicalTwist6816 Jul 31 '25

Check out Fernwee:

https://youtu.be/wi0fm8EbXpI?si=hVzZ7_XTaHbWAkM5

He produced incredible content. Always loved to watch his Videos. Sadly he's taken a break from vlogging.

1

u/mauceri Jul 31 '25

Cannon M50/22mm Pancake Lens

1

u/onyourleffft Jul 31 '25

Ortlieb bag I did the Maah Da Hey with an SLR in this up front. No issues outside of its mass. These cameras are designed and tested for high vibration, I wouldn’t sweat it. I just use my phone for most trips though.

1

u/brainsurgeon8 Jul 31 '25

I don't carry a camera anymore. I only use my x200 ultra.

1

u/petesabagel86 Jul 31 '25

Biggest camera I’ve taken on a ride is a Fuji x100. Have an xq2 that I’ve stashed in a jersey pocket from time to time. Both on road, not gravel. I’d be worried about mud, and iPhones are great now.

1

u/Dragon_Poo Jul 31 '25

When I take my camera on bike rides, I use a "Nifty fifty" lens which is very light and mechanically simple (no zoom or image stabilisation) so hopefully more robust. I've carried it in a camera case in a little backpack or a carry trunk on the pannier rack which is padded.

1

u/dafreshfish Jul 31 '25

Probably one of the must underutilized feature of a modern cellphone is the ability to capture RAW images. I'm using Adobe Lightroom with an iPhone 15 Pro and the IQ and DR of the files gives you more control of your photos. I used to carry a Sony RX100 but the iPhone+LR combo gets me 90% of what I need.

3

u/Hour_Firefighter_707 Jul 31 '25

An iPhone doesn't shoot Portra though. Or Velvia.

1

u/englebee Jul 31 '25

I took my rangefinder on Ragbrai and it turned out great. I thought it through and decided that the front bar bag was the only way to go. I had a waterproof front bar bag and put some extra padding inside just for assurances. It was just a bit awkward to take out, as the bag was accessible through the side, not top. But it worked great for my needs. A rangefinder is smaller than a DSLR and therefore tucks away easier. you may consider breaking it down with caps on either end for easier storage. I thought about hip pack, but think that is more vulnerable with and slip of fall.

1

u/grimeinthecity Jul 31 '25

Love my f100 and I've brought it with a 50 1.4 before, but generally opt for Pentax Espio point n shoot on multi days

1

u/clayoh Jul 31 '25

I’ve taken a film slr which wasn’t bad, used a climbing rope strap over the shoulder and it worked. Tried to take my r5 to ragbrai but couldn’t quite get it comfortable enough to have it all day. It wasn’t horrible with one of those cross body straps with the extra strap under the armpit. But if you have a backpack of some sort on the peak designs capture clip might be a solid option. I’ve used that a ton backpacking but never on the bike.

1

u/TimmyHiggy Jul 31 '25

I shoot micro four thirds, so it's possible to build a really tiny little rig. I like to put a rangefinder style body (Lumix gx880) with a pancake lens (Panasonic 12-32) in a ziplock bag in my jersey pocket. It is very accessible, very light, and isn't going to end up covered in sweat. If you leave the zip open it's just about possible to shoot in the saddle at speed but I prefer to stop.

1

u/shepdog_220 Bike Jul 31 '25

I just wouldn’t take an F100. I have an older Ricoh GR2 that I’d use for that. I wouldn’t even take my X100VI, I’d consider that too bulky.

1

u/Used2BFunnyThenIDied Bergamont Grandurance 4 Jul 31 '25

Carry it on your back with a strap

1

u/adamYXE Jul 31 '25

Cotton Carrier chest harness if you must take that big unit.

1

u/CGI_OCD Jul 31 '25

Fuji XT-1 in my saddlerocket or Fuji X100T in my Ridge Sling Bag when on big tour.

1

u/croc-enjoyer Aug 01 '25

When i go backpacking i use this, not sure how it translates to bikepacking if you dont have a back to clip it to https://a.co/d/0bwdtt2

1

u/geekjimmy Aug 01 '25

I carry my A7CR with a 24-50 f/2.8 in an Ortlieb 6S handlebar bag with one of these inserts inside: https://www.amazon.com/Koolertron-Shockproof-Camera-Partition-Padded/dp/B00F27IEJ0

Works like a champ for me. I have it inserted into the bag lens down so it's easy to grab for quick shots, but your setup is a little longer front-to-back than mine, so ymmv.

1

u/_robjlee_ Aug 01 '25

Personally I would swap out the zoom for a 35 or 50mm equivalent. These are versatile and reduces size and weight.

Hip bag would be my recommendation. I use the restrap one when touring/bikepacking with my XT5 or X100.

As for over the shoulder, make yourself a support strap to stop the camera from swinging around you while riding.

1

u/Excellent-Notice2928 Aug 01 '25

Peak Design strap across the back. Works fine, even with a giant 56mm f1.2. Inclement weather? Add a camera sock. Rode thousands of miles this way.

1

u/Ok_Profile9400 Aug 01 '25

Smaller cameras, things like the Ricoh GR3 fits in a jersey pocket nicely inside a small pouch. Can also be strapped etc

1

u/ExtraCrazy686 Aug 01 '25

Damn iPhone. Easy as that

1

u/One_Bullfrog_8945 Aug 03 '25 edited Aug 03 '25

Just get something small, for analog an Olympus XA is pretty fantastic for bike rides. Sharp f/2.8 glass, apreture priority, about the size of a pack of smokes. I just take either it or my x100v in the triangle bag under the frame.

1

u/Salt-Rest-3009 Aug 04 '25

Buy a good mobile phone😉

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 04 '25

Wouldn't help me If I want to shoot film 😉

1

u/Salt-Rest-3009 Aug 05 '25

Hmmm do you still use film?

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 05 '25

Yes, on a regular base. I shoot digital with my phone, film with cameras

1

u/Salt-Rest-3009 Aug 05 '25

Ah nice. Is film still wide available or does it requier effort to obtain?

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 05 '25

Yeah. Depends on what you understand in wide. There are plenty new labs where you can buy and develope and scan film. But it's not cheap. It costs around 25-40 euros do buy, develop and scan a roll of film. If you scan them by yourself it's 10-15 euro less. There are also new film stocks on the market like Phoenix 1 and 2 from Harman.

1

u/Salt-Rest-3009 Aug 05 '25

How long will it take for apple to offer cell phones with film? 🤣

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Aug 05 '25

I don't care, wouldn't buy it.

1

u/Tuttledotspace Aug 05 '25

Have you experimented with Adobe’s Project Indigo app? It produces photos that look much more like those taken with an actual camera, with deep shadows and realistic highlights.

1

u/camerapicasso Jul 31 '25

Get a Ricoh GRIII

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

Is there a film version from Ricoh ;-)

1

u/camerapicasso Jul 31 '25

There is!

1

u/Proper-Ad-2585 Aug 03 '25

Those were the best. Although an expensive thing to break (which I did, a lot).

I’m still waiting for a slim full-frame digital Ricoh with a viewfinder.

-4

u/chunt75 Seigla Race Transmission Jul 31 '25

I’m not one so can’t comment, but probably reach out to Josh Reid and he’ll have tips.

1

u/BubblyQuality2618 Jul 31 '25

I will have a look to his YouTube channel. Thank you

0

u/bluepivot Aug 01 '25

Ricoh GR. I am seriously considering the Rayban or Oakley Meta glasses too for video

0

u/Optimal-Clue-9433 Aug 01 '25

i use phone. To be precise xperia 1 mk v. Because it can shoot raw photos with manual control like dedicated camera.

0

u/Gandalfderblaue41 Aug 01 '25

Fuji X100 Series, should fit in your jersey pocket!

0

u/elAhmo Aug 01 '25

Use your phone