Camera blocks and camera holders are necessary for any camera user who has batteries, lenses, cabling, or any other camera equipment to carry. Camera blocks are organizers of different shapes and sizes to keep items, like lenses and other fragile camera equipment, from jostling against other items within a camera holder.

A camera holder is another name for any type of carrying bag for camera equipment. It is much easier to have all your equipment in one location, especially if you are out on a shoot and not near your car. Camera holders keep your essentials organized. Batteries have their own place and filters are snugly tucked away for easy retrieval.

1. Camera holders come in all sizes and shapes to fit your lifestyle so you have plenty of options to choose from.

2. Use online resources to find camera holders and camera blocks at the best price.

3. Consider the special pricing and shipping cost on the items before you make a purchase.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Shop for the roomiest camera holder for all your gear

There are several camera holder seller options including Aquatech, CCS, Centon, Cobra, Crumpler and Domke. The camera holder price is contingent on the name on the holder, as well as the size, and where you are purchasing the holder. Find a camera holder online by doing a quick search for camera bags. A medium-sized camera holder can double as a camcorder holder.

I recommend: Lowepro refers to their camera holders as 'pouches,' and they offer sizes including ultra compact, compact and large zoom. Tamrac has numerous camera holders to select from including sling packs and an adventure series of backpacks. They even offer combo bags that have room for your laptop as well as your camera equipment.

Find the best camera block to categorize your equipment

Camera blocks can be described as partitions to separate different types of items and gear. Some come in preformed partitions, while others are adjustable with materials like velcro.

I recommend: There are several camera blocks, or dividers, available through B&H Photo for specific camera holders. Think Tank Photo offers various adjustable divider sets to block your camera gear and keep it safe and secure.

Take advantage of previously owned camera holders and camera blocks

It is great to have the freedom to shop around for what you need. A great starting point is finding and speaking to people already using the gear you are considering. People often outgrow their gear. Visit a local photography club and see what members carry. Ask if anyone has camera holders or camera blocks they no longer use. Access auction houses and classified ads to find deals on used blocks and holders.

I recommend: Profotos has an online auction house for all types of photography gear. Tamarkin Camera maintains a listing of new and used products accessed by an index. They are also available via phone or online form to aid you in your search.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Retain flexibility inside your camera holder by purchasing adjustable blocks, unless you are absolutely sure your fixed-block arrangement meets your needs now and for the forseeable future.