American Coot: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/1250 sec, ISO 1100
When travelling for professional assignments, managing my photography gear is a top priority. I need a reliable, compact, and intelligently designed solution to transport my complete equipment: Nikon Z8, lenses ranging from 14–24mm, 24–120mm, 105mm macro, 70–200mm, 100–400mm, and of course, the 600mm—essential for my bird photography sessions.
Snowy Egret: Nikon Z8, 600m @ 6,3, 1/1000 sec, ISO 360
Tricolored Heron: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/1250 sec, ISO 450
In the field, staying mobile while keeping all my gear accessible is key. That’s exactly what the Think Tank Walker Pro 30L delivers.
Walker Pro 30L: Built for the Field
The Walker Pro 30L quickly became my go-to backpack. It combines rugged durability, smart ergonomics, and flexible organization in a size that perfectly suits my needs as a nature photographer.
Key features include:
- Generous capacity: Easily fits my bodies, telephoto lenses, batteries, memory cards (securely stored in the Secure Pixel Pocket Rocket V2), two external 4TB drives, a 16″ MacBook Pro, iPad, and all essential accessories.
- Customizable layout: Modular dividers let me adapt the internal space based on the day’s gear or type of shoot.
- Padded compartment for a laptop or tablet up to 16″, safely tucked away.
- Hidden pocket for quick access to passports or important travel documents.
- Dual side pockets for a water bottle or tripod.
- Trolley strap compatibility, making it the perfect match for my Think Tank Airport International V3.0 roller case.
Even when fully loaded, the backpack remains extremely comfortable. Its wide, dual-density shoulder straps, breathable Ultra Spandura mesh back panel, removable waist belt, and stable flat base allow me to wear it all day without strain.
Crafted for heavy-duty use, it features ballistic and ripstop nylon, lockable YKK RC Fuze zippers, and includes a snug-fitting rain cover. Its internal dimensions (30.5 x 47 x 15.9 cm) and 30L volume strike an ideal balance between space and portability.
Bird Photography: Focus, Stealth, Efficiency
Bird photography demands discipline: reading behaviour, anticipating motion, and remaining discreet. In the field, the Walker Pro 30L helps me stay focused on what matters.
My go-to setup is the Nikon Z8 with the 600mm, which delivers reach and clarity. The 100–400mm offers versatility in tighter spaces, while the 24–120mm rounds out my kit for landscapes and ambient scenes.
With its smart organization and comfort-focused design, the Walker Pro 30L boosts my efficiency and mobility, even during extended treks or long hours in a blind.
Osprey: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/1250 sec, ISO 400
Designed for Demanding Professionals
The Walker Pro 30L is more than a backpack—it’s a dependable tool built for the realities of professional fieldwork. It blends practicality, comfort, and ruggedness, making it a natural choice for photographers who demand both performance and reliability, whether in the wild or on assignment.
Double-crested Cormorant: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/1000 sec, ISO 640
Great Blue Heron: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6.3, 1/1000 sec, ISO 640
Anhinga: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/1250 sec, ISO 160
Black-necked Stilt: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/1250 sec, ISO 400
Osprey: Nikon Z8, 100-400mm @ 400mm f/5,6, 1/1250 sec, ISO 200
Great Grey Owl: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/6,3, 1/2500 sec, ISO 1100
Sandhill Crane: Nikon Z8, 600mm @ f/11, 1/1000 sec, ISO 2200
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About the Author – Jacques Dumont
Jacques Dumont is one of the most recognized figures in the Canadian photographic publishing industry, with over 40 years of experience.
A professional photographer and passionate traveller, Jacques brings expertise across a wide range of photographic genres. His strong background in both creative and managerial roles has contributed to the success of numerous projects. In 2022, he joined the World Photographic Cup (WPC) as curator for Team Canada.
