Think Tank Photo is an American premium photography gear brand that specializes in designing and manufacturing professional camera bags, backpacks, rolling cases, travel luggage, and accessories for photographers, videographers, and other visual creators. Founded in 2005, the company has earned a reputation for combining practical functionality, durable construction, and photographer-driven design. Unlike many consumer-focused camera bag brands, Think Tank primarily develops products with input from working professionals, making its equipment particularly popular among photojournalists, sports photographers, wildlife photographers, and commercial professionals. [1]

Official website: Think Tank Photo [1]

Think Tank Photo was founded in 2005 by a group of experienced product designers and professional photographers who believed existing camera bags did not adequately meet the needs of working photographers.

One of the key founders is Doug Murdoch, a veteran outdoor equipment designer who had previously worked with several well-known outdoor and camera gear companies. Drawing from decades of experience designing backpacks and technical equipment, Murdoch helped establish Think Tank with a philosophy centered on solving real-world problems encountered by photographers in the field. [1]

The company initially gained recognition among professional photojournalists by distributing prototype camera belt systems and receiving direct feedback from photographers covering major sporting events and news assignments. This collaborative design process became one of the company’s defining characteristics. [1]

Think Tank’s products are built around one central idea:

Design by photographers, for photographers.

Rather than emphasizing fashion or lifestyle aesthetics alone, the company prioritizes:

• Fast camera access
• Efficient organization
• Airline-friendly travel
• Weather protection
• Long-term durability
• Ergonomic comfort
• Modular expansion

Its official philosophy is to create products that help photographers “Be Ready Before the Moment™.” [1]

Think Tank manufactures a wide variety of carrying solutions.

Camera Backpacks

Professional backpacks designed for:

• Wildlife photography
• Landscape photography
• Hiking
• Travel
• Commercial assignments

Popular series include:

• BackLight
• StreetWalker
• Rotation Series
• FirstLight

Shoulder Bags

Classic messenger-style bags designed for quick access.

Popular series include:

• Retrospective
• Vision
• Mirrorless Mover

Rolling Cases

Among Think Tank’s best-known products are its professional roller bags, widely used by photographers who travel by air.

Popular models include:

• Airport International
• Airport Security
• Airport Advantage
• Airport Roller Derby

These bags are designed to comply with many airline carry-on size requirements while maximizing camera storage. [1]

Sling Bags

Compact solutions for travel and street photography.

Examples:

• TurnStyle
• Digital Holster
• Urban Access

Belt Systems

Think Tank is well known for modular belt systems that allow photographers to carry multiple lenses around the waist for rapid access.

Components include:

• Lens pouches
• Battery pouches
• Utility bags
• Water bottle holders

These systems are especially popular among wedding photographers and sports photographers.

Accessories

The company also produces:

• Memory card wallets
• Cable organizers
• Rain covers
• Packing cubes
• Lens cases
• Tripod straps
• Camera inserts

Think Tank products are recognized for several distinctive features:

Professional Appearance

Unlike brightly colored outdoor backpacks, Think Tank products typically use subdued colors such as:

• Black
• Graphite
• Dark gray
• Olive

This understated appearance helps photographers remain less conspicuous.

Premium Materials

Many products feature:

• High-density nylon fabrics
• Water-resistant coatings
• YKK zippers
• Reinforced stitching
• Closed-cell foam padding
• Durable aluminum or composite hardware

These materials are selected to withstand demanding travel and outdoor use.

Modular Design

Many bags can be customized through attachment systems, allowing users to add:

• Lens pouches
• Utility pockets
• Battery holders
• Accessory bags

Travel Optimization

Think Tank has become particularly well known for designing bags that:

• Fit airline carry-on limits
• Protect expensive camera gear
• Provide quick airport access
• Include laptop compartments
• Offer secure document storage

One of the company’s notable innovations is the Rotation180® backpack system.

This design allows photographers to rotate a waist-mounted camera compartment from the back to the front without removing the backpack, providing fast access while hiking or working outdoors. The technology received international design recognition, including a Red Dot Design Award. [1]

Think Tank primarily serves:

• Professional photographers
• Wedding photographers
• Sports photographers
• Wildlife photographers
• Landscape photographers
• Photojournalists
• Commercial photographers
• Videographers
• Drone operators
• Frequent travelers

Although enthusiasts also use the brand, many products are designed with professional workflows in mind.

Think Tank is widely regarded as one of the premium camera bag manufacturers alongside brands such as:

• Peak Design
• Lowepro
• Tenba
• Billingham
• WANDRD
• Shimoda

It is especially respected for:

• Exceptional durability
• Functional layouts
• Comfortable carrying systems
• Reliable travel solutions
• Long product lifespan

Professional reviewers often recommend Think Tank’s rolling cases for photographers who travel extensively by air. [2]

In 2018, Think Tank Photo merged with MindShift Gear, another company known for outdoor photography backpacks.

Following the merger:

• Think Tank continued as the primary corporate brand.
• MindShift remained as a dedicated product line focused on outdoor and adventure photography.
• The merger expanded the company’s portfolio of backpacks and travel equipment. [1]

Think Tank products are sold in more than 55 countries through:

• Authorized camera retailers
• Photography specialty stores
• Online dealers
• Regional distributors

The company maintains a strong presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. [1]

Industry: Photography equipment and travel gear

Founded: 2005

Headquarters: Santa Rosa, California, United States

Founder: Doug Murdoch (with a founding team of photographers and designers)

Products:

• Camera backpacks
• Rolling luggage
• Messenger bags
• Sling bags
• Belt systems
• Lens pouches
• Travel accessories
• Organization gear

Target audience: Professional and enthusiast photographers, videographers, and travelers

Slogan: “Be Ready Before the Moment™” [1]

Think Tank Photo has established itself as one of the photography industry’s leading manufacturers of professional camera carrying systems. Since its founding in 2005, the company has focused on creating durable, practical, and travel-friendly gear developed with direct input from working photographers. Its emphasis on ergonomic design, modular organization, and airline-compatible travel solutions has made it a trusted choice for professionals worldwide. [1]

1. À propos de nous – Think Tank Photo
2. The 10 Best Camera Bags to Transport Your Photo Gear in Style and Comfort