Would you ever have thought that a trekking backpack could become the photography backpack of your dreams?
Luciano Fiorentini, a dear friend and customer of BF, has always cultivated a great passion: photography. He managed to combine his love for nature and exploration with this art form, constantly looking for a photography backpack that would allow him to walk for many kilometers in comfort. The ideal solution for him was a Ferrino backpack, the Finisterre 48 liter model.
Luciano's Need: Comfort and Convenience
Luciano wanted a backpack that could hold a case for his photographic equipment, called ICU (Internal Camera Unit), that was easy to remove and offered good weight distribution and adequate ventilation for his back. A key aspect that Luciano particularly appreciated was the double opening of the backpack: the ability to remove the case from both the top and the bottom . All features that were missing from his traditional photographic backpack.
After finding the right combination of comfort and practicality in Finisterre, Luciano has come up with solutions to always have his camera handy during his excursions. Below, his idea described in his own words:
"It's an option to take photos while walking, keeping the camera close at hand when needed. For example, during a hike in the Abruzzo National Park, towards the Terraegna Refuge, I walked for about 8-9 km exploring beautiful valleys and encountering various species of birdlife. In these situations, you can't stop every half hour to take out the equipment, otherwise you risk missing the opportunity for a fantastic shot. So I thought of a configuration that would allow me to have the camera always accessible, taking advantage of the characteristics of this backpack."
"I used the straps on the top of the shoulder straps, which are common on many trekking backpacks, and attached two 4mm cords (but thinner ones can be used) to attach the camera. To do this, I replaced the original camera straps with two stainless steel rings, which are easily available at hardware stores and are weatherproof. I also used metal-core carabiners coated in plastic, which do not hurt the fingers and reduce the risk of accidents."
"I also needed to find a way to stabilize the camera, especially on uneven ground, because in this configuration the camera tends to move. So, I added two elastic straps to the safety buckle, which lock the camera in place in a stable way. The elastic straps are used to respond to different configurations and needs."
The same configuration can also be done with the camera case, using the same hooks.
The Advantage of Balancing Weights
This solution is also very interesting for weight balance. As Luciano noted, having a load of 3-5 kg on the back and a counterweight of 1-2 kg in front significantly reduces the perception of weight. In the photo below I tested the benefits I found with this configuration. It feels like you are not carrying the weight!
Other Tips from Luciano
Luciano also showed the possibility of inserting the telephoto lens inside the backpack, avoiding carrying it over the shoulder and saving space for other objects. Or, using the additional straps of the Finisterre, you can attach a tent or a tripod.
Conclusions
After meeting Luciano, I can say that:
- The versatility of this backpack or similar models offers advantages over a traditional photographic backpack. The technical characteristics of trekking models allow for weight distribution on the lumbar region rather than on the back.
- Technical trekking backpacks are lighter than traditional photography backpacks.
- The backpack's ventilation system allows you to carry your photography equipment more comfortably, especially in warmer months and on longer hikes.
I congratulate Luciano Fiorentini for these "photographic" configurations and thank him from the bottom of my heart for sharing this precious information, which will be very useful for those who have the same needs and have encountered similar difficulties.
Comments are welcome! If you need to better understand the various configurations or if you are interested in applying these solutions to your backpacks! We will be happy to answer you!
Don't forget to visit Luciano's Instagram profile to admire his extraordinary photographs!
Instagram Profile: @lou.fiorentini