I have been looking for the perfect over the shoulder bag and I think I finally found it.
I have several shoulder bags because I never really found what I was looking for, but each new bag had a feature that a bag I owned did not have.
When I first read about the Retrospective 20, I thought it may check every single box on my wish list. Here are a few of my requirements:
1. Needs to be nondescript on the outside - I didn't want a flashy bag that looks like it houses expensive camera equipment. The Retrospective 20 is as simple as it gets and the color (Pinestone) is something you don't see in a camera bag very often.
2. Needs to fit a 100-400mm with body attached - This was my main requirement and it is very rare for a should bag. The Retrospective can fit a 100-400mm with body attached and the lens hood reversed. In addition, it also has room for a 70-200 f4 at the same time. As far as I know, this is unheard of in a shoulder bag.
3. Needs to have a few pockets for accessories - The bag has a large pocket in front that will fit a BookBook iPad case and another in the back that can fit an iPad with the smart cover (just to give you an idea of the sizes). There is also a pocket inside that zips and a couple side pockets that can fit an iPhone.
4. Needs to be comfortable to carry - The carry strap on the bag is fantastic.
5. Needs to sit flat - In other words, it needs to be flat on bottom so that I can sit it down without it tipping over. This would typically be an issue with a messenger style bag, but the Retrospective sits without issue.
It filled every major requirement. The only gripe I have is the way they keep the bag closed. They used very loud velcro. They do have a way to cover up the velcro for when you want to just lay the front flap over the top without securing it. However, I would have also liked to see a snap for when you don't want to use velcro. I do like the loud velcro because there is no way someone could get into your bag without being noticed, but I want something quiet and somewhat secure for times I want to be stealthy. I may look into adding a snap of some sort. I should mention that they included a nice rain cover if you get caught in a heavy downpour.
All in all, it is the perfect over the shoulder bag for me. I should mention that it is taller than the average shoulder bag, but I am tall so it is not a problem. If you are in the market for this type of bag, do yourself a favor and try out the Retrospective 20. I may have purchased my last bag.
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