Accessories...

[Burt]

I just bought this camera (Z7II), and I'm slowly settling down in the new environment... While I really enjoy the ergonomic part of it, I now would like to improve, if possible with accessories that can make you enjoy this camera even more... Thing is, I have been burned several times before, by buying useless gadgets that did add nothing other than weight..

So I would like to make a list of good gear that actually does work as intended, and it is good value for money...

First on the list is a good backpack, follow by a camera form of protection... I have seeing online several forms of rigs, silicon skin, leather skins and L frames...

By keeping in mind that I do lots of walks with the camera often in my hand ready, I was wondering what you guys would recommend as far as backpack and camera protection..

The backpack will need to be sturdy, waterproof and large enough to carry two cameras, lenses and pretty much everything else... The camera protection would be aimed mainly at preventing scratches and dents, if possible... I often use natural objects, such as tree's branches or rocks to position the camera...

 

[BF Hammer]

I am going to apply a decade of experience carrying around a D80 and later D7000 on geocaching hikes.

PGYTECH makes some good backpacks at good value. Look around to see if that is an option in AUS. It is a Chinese brand (I often call it Piggy-Tech).

I tried a silicone skin for my first D80 after trashing the printed-on markings with DEET. It's a dust collector and makes the camera bulky in hand. I won't recommend that. There also is no protection for lens or screen. Leather half-case has a similar problem (even though I use 1 for my ZF).

I myself favor a neoprene slip-cover for the camera. You can use a regular strap attached and slip the cover off easily in 2 seconds. Some covers can hang off the camera as you take photos. This won't work well with a sling setup. This protects the full rig until you deploy, nothing else can really do that.

For sure apply a stick-on screen protector on back.

If you don't use a tripod, don't bother with a L-bracket. If you do have a tripod with Arca-Swiss attachment on the head, a fitted L-bracket makes life good.

Camera strap: even if you don't like the Peak Design offerings, it's worth just buying their Anchor Link set and use your own strap of choice. Being able to remove or install a strap that quickly is worth money spent. Also nice to change from neck strap to a wrist cuff with no fuss, and Peak Design has a very good wrist cuff that can store on your wrist with no dangling.

Buy a spare battery. You always need spare power.

 

[Burt]

Thanks again BF Hammer... I'm going to check every item you mentioned... I already have spare batteries and monitor glass protector...
I did read lots of bad reviews about the silicon skin confirming what you just said above...

On a different note, I just got delivered the 24-120 lens... It is still a bit to heavy, but I will have to get used to it... I guess that the price you pay for going from DX to FX format... Can't wait to try it out...

 

[Clovishound]

If you find your camera/lens combo too heavy to carry around, or dangle from a neck strap, consider something like the Cotton carrier harness system. I recently purchased one, and really like it. My long lens combo runs around 6 1/2 lbs. This doesn't sound like a lot until you try carrying it around by the lens foot for a couple hours. The Cotton carrier allows me to carry it on my chest attached to a harness. A quick 90 degree twist and it pulls right off the carrier, ready for use. It has made bird photography so much more comfortable.

 

[Burt]

If you find your camera/lens combo too heavy to carry around, or dangle from a neck strap, consider something like the Cotton carrier harness system. I recently purchased one, and really like it. My long lens combo runs around 6 1/2 lbs. This doesn't sound like a lot until you try carrying it around by the lens foot for a couple hours. The Cotton carrier allows me to carry it on my chest attached to a harness. A quick 90 degree twist and it pulls right off the carrier, ready for use. It has made bird photography so much more comfortable.

Thank you Clovishound..

Another good idea... I think the Grey Skout G2 will do the trick for when using the 28-400 lens...

SKOUT Camera Sling | Quick-Access Camera Carry

Capture every moment with the SKOUT Camera Sling. Shop now for secure, quick-access camera carrying.

www.cottoncarrier.com

 

[Clovishound]

I have the harness. Not sure I would like the sling, but that is a matter of personal preference.

 

[Burt]

I have the harness. Not sure I would like the sling, but that is a matter of personal preference.

I had a look at the harness, but it looks like a bit too much for what I need. I don't like the large sling either.. Looking at the pictures, the Skout look smaller and it would give me quicker access to the camera...