Camera bags

	PE foam-padded sections for lenses, flash and batteries are incorporated in model F-006 from Quanzhou Xinheng of mainland China. The 31x26x21cm product is priced at $8.45.

Makers of camera bags in mainland China and Taiwan are improving the structure and durability of their designs to suit the latest photography gear.

Suppliers are responding to strong sales and product trends in the imaging industry. Worldwide revenue for digital camera manufacturers has been growing by at least 10 percent annually since 2001. Shipments increased by 21 percent in 2006 alone.

Amid such demand, pouches continue to be most popular, especially with the miniaturization of devices. New models are made of neoprene or molded EVA that fit snugly. These suit the slimness of pocket-sized cameras.

In addition, the DSLR segment is expanding because there are more professional photographers and hobbyists. Consequently, the output of roomier bags is increasing.

Waist and shoulder styles are fitted with adjustable compartments for batteries, chargers, lenses, flash lamps, filters, cables and multimedia storage viewers. Backpack configurations are even available, with special sections for laptop computers and tripods.

For users without full gear, companies have released top-load holsters that are less bulky. To improve carriage, adjustable and detachable straps are utilized.

Various materials are adopted to provide protection from water, temperature changes and impact. Fabric, including nylon, polyester and canvas, is coated with PVC, PU or TPU to repel moisture. High-density foam lines the body and dividers of the bag to reduce shock.

Molded EVA and neoprene, both of which can vary in thickness, combine these properties. Neoprene, in particular, remains stable despite extreme heat or cold.

Closures such as zippers, hook-and-loop tape and side-release buckles are used in tandem to offer better security.

Some suppliers are employing bartacking and welding machines to produce stronger seams. Straps and buckles are subjected to pull and tear tests to determine sturdiness.

Among the companies interviewed for the report, Yesun Bag Industrial Co. Ltd offers camera bags in nylon fabric, neoprene, and PU and genuine leather. Pouches, holsters and satchels have exterior pockets for memory cards and batteries.

Tarpaulin is the main material at Fuzhou Baige Bag Mfy Co. Ltd. Backpacks and satchels come with adjustable dividers for extra lenses and flash lamps.

Quanzhou Xinheng Outdoor Equipment Co. Ltd uses bartacking and welding machines during the production of holsters, and shoulder and waist bags.

Aside from interior PU foam padding, models are fitted with a beam at the bottom to stabilize weight. This prevents the pack from toppling over.

Shenzhen Yoho Fashion Gifts Mfy offers molded EVA and neoprene cases laminated with fabric. These come in pouch, waist bag and satchel styles.

Cixi Quansheng Plastics Co. Ltd's camera bags have water-resistant fabric, and synthetic or genuine leather bodies. Structures include pouches, satchels, holsters and backpacks. Some sling styles are long enough to fit a tripod.

Beijing Sky Wisdom Trade Co. Ltd conducts pull, temperature and salt fog tests to measure material and product quality.

In Taiwan, Ponderosa International Corp. uses high-density foam to line its bags. The company's latest backpack model has a laptop compartment.

Designs from Pepboy International Co. Ltd are made of nylon and polyester fabric, EVA and neoprene. Pouch, holster, and waist and shoulder bag styles are available. Most releases come with a separate fabric envelope for memory cards.

Bridge Elite Inc. utilizes 3.5 to 4mm-thick neoprene with 4-way stretch to create snug pouches for slim cameras.

Yu-Tsun Weaving Co. pads its EVA and neoprene cases with memory foam for shock absorption.