I’ve learned – usually the hard way – that the bag you choose can make or break a shoot long before you press the shutter.
There are times where I carry everything: Two bodies, five lenses, a drone, filters, triggers and enough snacks for a small village … just in case inspiration strikes in all possible directions at once. By hour three, my shoulders feet like they have entered early retirement without telling me. The worst part? I used maybe 30% of what I brought. The rest just came along for the ride like overenthusiastic extras in a movie.
That’s where something like the VEO City line starts to make a lot of sense.
I remember heading out for a casual ride one afternoon, camera slung along because “you never know”. Instead of my usual overpacked setup, I brought a small crossbody with my Z6 mirrorless body and a single lens. That was it. No decision fatigue, no digging around, no missed moments. I shot more, moved faster and actually enjoyed the ride instead of managing gear like it was a second job. Turns out, creativity likes a little breathing room.
On the flip side, there are days when minimal just doesn’t cut it. Events, client work or anything remotely paid tend to trigger that internal voice: “Bring the backup. And the backup for the backup.” That’s where a proper shoulder bag or backpack earns its keep. Being able to reach in and swap lenses without breaking stride – or worse, missing the moment entirely – is the difference between feeling prepared and feeling panicked.
And maybe that’s the real takeaway here. It’s not about finding the “best” bag. It’s about finding the one that matches how you move, how you shoot and how much gear you realistically use – not the version of you that thinks you’re filming a National Geographic special every time you leave the house.
Because at the end of the day, the best camera bag is the one that lets you forget about it entirely … and just shoot. Truth be told, photographers rarely rely on just one bag. This is where Vanguard’s VEO City series steps in – different, stylish bags that fit your needs depending on the situation.
Vanguard’s VEO City series feels like it was designed by someone who’s spent a long day shooting and thought, “There has to be a better way to carry all this without looking like I’m carrying very expensive camera gear.” These bags lean into clean, urban styling while still delivering the structure and protection photographers actually need. The result is a lineup that works just as well walking into a client meeting as it does wandering downtown or hopping on a plane.
What makes the VEO City range stand out isn’t just the look – it’s how clearly each model is built for a specific kind of photographer or situation. Instead of one-size-fits-all, Vanguard gives you options that match how you actually shoot.
Technical Packs (TP Series) – Small Kits, Big Efficiency
The TP series is for creators who travel light but still carry a surprising amount of gear. Think of it as your mobile command centre for small-scale production. A model like the TP28 comfortably handles a compact camera or smartphone rig, along with a microphone, small LED light, cables and mounting accessories. There’s even room to strap a mini tripod or gimbal externally.
This is the bag for the person shooting quick video clips, social content or behind-the-scenes moments – someone who values agility over hauling a full kit. If your setup revolves around a Sony ZV series, DJI Pocket or a phone rig that’s more accessorized than a Christmas tree, this is your lane. I also like to load these small packs with all the accessories I need for a trip, without taking up valuable space in a different camera bag, such as battery chargers, power supplies and cables.
Crossbody Bags (CB Series) – Everyday Camera Carry
The crossbody models are where a lot of photographers will feel at home. They’re designed for that sweet spot between portability and capability – enough room for real gear, but compact enough that you don’t feel weighed down.
A bag like the CB29 easily fits a mirrorless body with one or two lenses, plus essentials like batteries and cards. It can also double as a drone bag for something like a DJI Mini. Access is quick, the structure is solid and it sits comfortably against your body while moving through a city.
This is the everyday bag. The one you grab when heading out “just in case,” and then end up shooting half a portfolio’s worth of images.
Shoulder Bags (S Series) – The Working Photographer’s Bag
For those who still appreciate a traditional shoulder bag, the S series delivers a more robust, work-ready option. These bags are built for access and capacity – ideal for events, client shoots or hybrid photo/video work where you need multiple lenses within reach.
A typical setup might include a full-frame body with a standard zoom attached, a couple of additional lenses (even larger f/2.8 glass) and a laptop or tablet tucked into a dedicated sleeve. There’s also room for accessories and the ability to attach a tripod when needed.
This is the bag that says, “Yes, I brought options.” It’s practical, organized and designed for photographers who don’t have time to dig around when moments are happening in real time.
Backpacks (B Series) – Full Kits and Long Days
When the gear list starts getting ambitious or the day gets long, the backpacks in the VEO City lineup step in. These are built for photographers who carry full systems: multiple lenses, a drone, a mid-size laptop and still need space for personal items.
Models like the B42 strike a balance between capacity and comfort, offering customizable interiors and thoughtful organization. Whether you’re traveling, shooting a wedding or heading out for a full day on location, these bags keep everything protected without turning into a black hole of lost lens caps.
They’re also surprisingly refined for their size. You won’t feel like you’re wearing expedition gear just to grab a coffee between shoots.
The Bottom Line
The VEO City series works because it doesn’t try to force every photographer into the same bag. Instead, it quietly asks: How do you actually shoot?
If your kit is minimal and fast-moving, the TP series keeps things tight and efficient. If you’re out exploring with a mirrorless setup, the crossbody bags are a natural fit. For working photographers juggling multiple lenses, the shoulder bags deliver that classic, accessible workflow. And when you’re carrying everything but the kitchen sink (and briefly considering packing that too), the backpacks have your back … literally.
Choosing the right one isn’t complicated. It usually comes down to being honest about your gear habits. Most of us pack for the shoot we might have, not the one we’re actually heading into. Vanguard just gives you better ways to carry whichever version of yourself shows up that day.
I really appreciate the style and colours available. The leather accents add a splash of distinction and flare to VEO City while the colours, from an elegant royal navy to “Green Tea Matcha” to cloud grey, there’s a colour for every taste. The fabrics are water-resistant (a rain cover is included), the internal pockets are 4-way stretch to hold accessories snugly and the smart dividers can be easily configured to fit your particular gear.
If you’re in the market for a new camera bag and can’t decide on one, the stylish VEO City series is affordable enough that you can buy two or more bags.
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Author: Will Prentice
A portrait, fine art and commercial photographer for 30 plus years, Will Prentice is not just a contributor to PHOTONews magazine, but also host of PHOTONewsTV, owner of Captura Photography+Imaging and Technical Support/Brand Manager for Amplis Foto, Canada’s largest distributor of photographic equipment.
Will teaches photographers of all skill levels how to improve their craft – from creative photo projects to picking the right gear for their needs to flattering lighting to getting the best expressions to creating final images for screen and print. His unique style of highly detailed images with perfect tonality, wide dynamic range and stunning colour is instantly recognizable. Commercial clients rely on Will’s creative eye and mastery of lighting.
When he’s not behind the camera or in front of a class, you’ll find Will outdoors in any weather – usually on one of his bikes or enjoying time with his grandchildren.
