The photographer’s bag with heritage.
It all began in 1975 when Jim Domke had to rethink how he toted his equipment after his company car was pooled. As a professional photojournalist he was well aware of the shortcomings of the offerings available at the time, so when his employer suggested he design something new, he came up with a bag that eventually went into production as the Domke F-2 and has since been held in high esteem by amateurs and professionals around the globe whether on holiday, snapping memories at a child’s sports day, or stuck in the crossfire on the front line.
The F-2 is certainly an admirable bag, but slightly dated in its dimensions. In other words it won’t carry my MacBook Pro or allow me to store a couple of issues of Overland Journal without folding them when the flap is closed. The F-7 on the other hand bears a close resemblance to its ancestor, meets my expectations as an everyday solution and has served me well this last year. Designed to carry two DSLRs with zoom lenses plus extras, the interior measures 36 x 15 x 25 cm. The bag is made of sturdy weather resistent canvas and has a total of 12 pockets and compartments which comfortably hold everything I need on assignment. The internal padding absorbs knocks and blows to protect the contents.
The adjustable shoulder strap has two anti-slip trails woven into the webbing and is stable enough (even when the bag is fully packed) not to fold and cut into my shoulder when on the move. The strap runs underneath the bag as well for added support and stability. To improve security and ensure the F-7 remains tucked in close to your body even if you need to run, there is an adjustable waist belt attached.
Despite this being my go-to solution, it still has one not insignificant flaw. Fortunately for me, I usually leave the flap open for faster access to the contents because, if there is one real disappointment, it has to be the clasps that keep the flap closed and attach the 4-point carrying handle—they are fiddly, cannot be released with one hand only, and are a stark reminder of the bag’s 30-year heritage and classic appearance.
All said and done, the Domke F-7 is a reliable porter for my gear and, despite the tough and resilient outer shell, has picked up a few blemishes along the way which have actually enhanced its character.
The Domke F-7 can be purchased from a number of online shops in Europe or via the manufacturer’s website in the US.
From €220 | tiffen.com
