It’s selfish of me to say that I feel like the Mindshift rotation180° Panorama was designed for me, but that’s how I feel. My methods for taking my DSLR and lenses out into the backcountry usually defaulted to three options for me: 1) Wrapping my extra layers around my camera and sticking it in the large compartment in any standard backpack (disorganization, also, what happens when I have to put my extra layers on?). 2) Not bringing it at all. 3) Trying to fit a smaller camera bag inside of a larger backpack (stupid).
When it became frustrating to even pack my camera out into the backcountry, it depressed my desire to want to create using the really nice gear that I have. And that’s just silly! Why would you leave that at home when you could find yourself taking really beautiful photographs outside?
The first time I used the Panorama, I went on a 100 mile dirt bike ride. I had never taken more photos out on an adventure! The Panorama is designed with usability in mind and appears to be just a normal backpack. What makes it stand out from all the others is the rotating belt pack that safely houses your camera and camera gear. It is completely separate from the rest of the backpack and is padded with a zipper closure. With the hip belt secured, you can easily rotate your camera gear around so it is easy and quick to grab.
It’s incredible to be able to have your organized gear in front of you in seconds but it is also really safe. Your camera is definitely protected in this backpack. Like I mentioned, I have taken this on many dirt bike rides with my camera in the pack and I am known to have some falls and crashes, as a testament to the confidence in protection I have with the Panorama.
With multiple ways of housing a hydration system, secure tripod mounting options, and room for extra layers, snacks, and outdoor essentials, the rotation180° is everything you need in a pack and more! If you are just going out for a shorter trip, the belt pack can even be worn separately. Even if you’re going out for a shoot with minimal gear, the belt pack would be great for keeping your gear safe and ease of lens changes.
Mindshift developed an entire line of rotation180° packs, with the same technology included in each. The sizing is different for each one, so be sure to check them out and see which one would best fit your lifestyle. Mindshift was developed by the founders of Think Tank, who have been creating camera bags and accessories for over 10 years. The quality is solid and the design unlike anything I’ve tried. Not only do you get this amazing backpack loaded with a new technology and technical features, it’s actually very comfortable! Usually you have to compensate one for the other, but not Mindshift.
It’s safe to say that the only time I won’t be using my rotation180° when I’m outside is when I wear my avy bag skiing in the backcountry. Other than that, it’ll be on my back and my camera gear will be at my fingertips!
Links
Mindshift rotation180° Panorama
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