Whether you’re shooting digitally or with a film setup, a hard camera case is essential for keeping your equipment organized, safe and secure. From large Cine cameras and drones to small mirrorless and DSLR bodies, these cases are designed for a wide range of setups. But they all have one thing in common: the ability to sort, store and work with your gear in exactly the configuration you need for each project.
A hard camera case has a durable outer shell with a soft inner liner or dividers that protect your cameras and accessories. The inner dividers can be flexible or firm, and most have a locking system to prevent accidental damage or theft. Unlike a traditional camera bag, which can be bulky and uncomfortable to carry, a hard case is compact and has a shoulder strap. It’s also usually crushproof and watertight, and it has wheels or an extendable handle that makes it easy to transport.
The Pelican Air 1525 is our top choice for a camera hard case because it’s tough and crushproof. Its interior is made with Pelican’s Pick ‘n’ Pluck foam, which lets you customize the layout to fit your equipment. You can choose a firm or flexible layout that’s perfect for your kit, and the case has a purge valve to regulate air pressure inside. Plus, the Air is 40% lighter than Pelican’s previous cases and offers a secure lock to prevent accidental damage or theft.
Another great option is the Manfrotto Reloader Tough L55, which is made to make carrying a lot of equipment comfortable. It has a built-in tripod holder and enough space for two camera kits, along with plenty of dividers that you can adjust to accommodate a wide variety of cameras, lenses and accessories. Plus, it has a lock and purge valve to keep your gear safe in transit.
For those who prefer a more modular layout, the Monoprice Weatherproof Hard Case is an excellent choice. Its customizable foam interior, shockproof build, UV protection and watertight seal make it ideal for outdoor photographers who need to keep their equipment safe from harsh environments. It’s also a great choice for storage and transporting camera action protectors, lens caps, filters, and other accessories.
A good camera hard case is an investment that keeps your expensive equipment protected when you’re on the go. It’s especially important for professional photographers who travel frequently to different locations, as even small knocks can cause costly damage to their camera and lens setups. Luckily, there are many choices on the market, so be sure to do your research before you buy. NANUK’s camera hard cases are made with ultra-durable NK7 resin and come with flexible or firm foam dividers that can be cut to your exact specifications to ensure a snug fit. These dividers can be removed and replaced with new ones as needed, so you can upgrade your hard case for different photo projects without worrying about changing the configuration of your camera gear.