Typically, camera bags are among the more mundane pieces of equipment that photographers agonize over. Generally speaking, a bag is a bag, but when Billingham announces a new bag, we’re going to pay attention. The latest bag, the Capsule 1, is an elegantly designed camera pouch that is equal parts beautiful and compact. Let’s dive right in.
What Makes the Billingham Capsule 1 Special
The Billingham Capsule 1 is exactly the kind of bag you’d expect from Billingham. It’s made from the three-layer waterproof material for which the company is known, and the interior is lined with 5mm thick foam padding. The Capsule 1 has room for a medium-sized camera and a couple of smaller lenses, which are kept snug and secure, making this a perfect bag for everyday carry or travel.
Accessing the interior is also thoughtfully designed. With ease-of-use in mind, the front pouch features a wide, doctor’s-bag style opening that makes it effortless to grab the camera sitting inside. This handsome pouch also features a sturdy leather handle, making it easy to carry.
In keeping with what we’ve called one of the most beautiful bags ever made, the Billingham Capsule 1 takes style notes from its larger Eventer sibling. This camera pouch will be available in four color combinations, including:
- Sage FibreNyte / Chocolate Leather
- Black FibreNyte / Black Leather
- Burgundy Canvas / Chocolate Leather
- Khaki FibreNyte / Chocolate Leather
I’m glad to see that Billingham plans on using the FibreNyte material on these bags, as it is known to be a much longer-lasting synthetic material with all the appeal found in traditional canvas.
Details, Elegance, and Reliability
Not too long ago, I borrowed our EIC’s Billingham Eventer MK III for a church event I shot. While, like any good bag, it kept my camera and lenses organized and my personal items secure, it did something my regular WANDRD backpack never did – I received a ton of compliments on the bag. It’s truly a beautiful shoulder bag that makes me feel fancy when I wear it. With the Capsule 1, soon there will be an option that I could use when I’m just walking around the neighborhood doing some street photography, or something that will easily fit in my carry-on when I’m on vacation. It’s great to have a “real” camera bag with proper padding to keep things from getting dinged while I’m out and about and don’t necessarily want to carry a bulky packpack or shoulder bag.
Based on the images shared with us, Capsule 1 manages to keep things compact but not skimp on the craftsmanship and quality that we’ve come to expect from Billingham. From its weather-proof construction, to its thick padding, and to just how smart those leather details look, I find myself genuinely excited about a new camera bag.
You can check out the Billingham Capsule 1 on the Billingham website and preorder your handmade camera pouch for $143 USD.