Review of Kata DB-453 Camera Messenger Bag

Whenever I am looking for a new camera bag, I prefer ones that are more plain and do not resemble camera bags. I try to avoid bags with Canon or Nikon logos and ones that make it obvious that I am carrying around expensive equipment.

The DB-453 is part of the Digital Photo Series line from Kata that provides storage for a DSLR and up to two lenses. Perhaps my favorite thing about the Kata DB-453 is the fact that it looks more like a messenger bag than a camera bag. I also like that the camera compartment is removable allowing it to double as a simple day pack on days I choose to leave my camera equipment at home.

The thing that really drew me to the Kata DB-453 was the understated appearance of the messenger style bag. I was looking for something I could bring to a museum or a wedding that did not scream camera bag. I also liked the fact that contents of the bag could be accessed easily and quietly using the two sturdy front clips. This is a pleasant change from the velcro that holds many messenger bags closed which makes opening such bags harder in quiet surroundings.

Another nice feature of the Kata DB-453 is the removable camera compartment. The compartment has room for a DSLR with a lens mounted and an additional smaller lens. While this bag does not provide room for a lot of camera equipment, it does provide room for all the things I would carry on a normal day trip.

Pros:

• Compact and simple messenger bag that does not look like a camera bag
• Removable camera compartment allows it to double as a messenger bag
• No velcro straps that would make opening the bag loud
• Front zippered pocket for storing memory cards and additional batteries

Cons:

• Strap that comes with the bag can become uncomfortable after a few hours of use
• The camera compartment is shorter than the bag itself making it hard to get larger zoom lenses inside
• The mesh side pockets only hold smaller water bottles