APVideo heads to Epsom Downs Racecourse to review the latest camera backpack from Manfrotto.
APVideo at Epsom Downs Racecourse Reviewing the Manfrotto Manhattan Mover Camera Backpack
There is a plethora of camera backpack choice out there from messenger bag style to giant backpacks that make you feel like a turtle. All of these bags have one purpose: to store your camera equipment safely. So what is new with the Manfrotto Manhattan Mover?
It doesn't look like a camera bag. Quite often as video producers and photographers, we carry our livelihood on our backs, and keeping it safe from prying eyes and hands is important. The Manhattan Mover is discreet, and looks like a traditional business-style backpack. Its material is tough and weatherproof, but also has no direct access to the valuable gear from the exterior.
Access to the camera kit is on the inside (close to the back), meaning you have to take the backpack off to access it. In here you can store a combination of cameras, lenses and accessories. I've managed to fit in two cameras, 3 extra lenses, a wireless microphone system too, but you could easily fit one large DSLR, a telephoto lens and 2 or 3 other lenses.
Accessing essential filming equipment at Epsom Downs Racecourse, Adam Plowden Video reviews the Manfrotto Manhattan Mover 50 Backpack.
There is also a top compartment that could hold additional kit that is needed quickly, I use this to store a gimbal when not in use, or other accessories like ND filters, hurricane blowers, and essentials. The Zhiyun Crane 1 and Crane 2 fit comfortably in the top compartment for transportation.
Keeping in the 'business and discreet' style, you can also store a 15" laptop or tablet in the front compartment, as well as paperwork, documents or small bits and pieces. This turns the backpack into a multi purpose tool for everyday carrying rather than simply a camera bag.
Manfrotto Manhattan Mover 50 Camera Backpack at Epsom Downs Racecourse
The Manhattan Mover 50 is rectangular in shape, which results in an evenly distributed load, unlike other backpacks which store heavy camera equipment at the base.
One downside to the backpack is no quick side access to an alternative lens or camera, but it would be difficult to integrate this feature because of the many side zips for securing straps and the camera kit compartments padded interior.
For a discreet and multi functional backpack, the Manfrotto Manhattan Mover 50 is a great choice for videographers that travel (it is carry on luggage size compliant), but also for those that take their portable edit laptop with them for fast turnaround deliveries.
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Thanks to Lucy McPhee for the BTS photos!