Lens Cases: A Guide to Storing and Carrying Your Camera Lenses

Do I need a lens case?

The short answer is yes. Since a lens can break or get damaged in many ways, it’s best to have something to protect it. This is especially important since most lenses cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Here are the benefits of a lens case.

Keeping it dry

Humidity can make the different parts of your lens swell, damaging the picture's quality. Water or dampness can also lead to condensation inside the lens, obstructing parts of the image. In severe cases, it can lead to mould, ruining the lens altogether. 

Keeping oils away

When the lens glass comes into contact with either oils or chemicals, it might cause havoc. It can smudge the surface, make the glass cloudy, or in a worst-case scenario, harm the delicate components inside the lens.

Protecting against dirt

Sand, dirt and dust can scratch the delicate surface of the lens, making the image blurry. Dust can also stop light from coming through the lens, making the image look dark. It can even harm the focus.

Keeping your lenses handy

When you work with multiple lenses, a lens case helps you switch between them. Since you can wear it like a messenger bag or attach it to your belt, it provides easy access. On top of that, it ensures that the lens you’re not using is safe if you drop it.

How do you carry camera lenses?

There are various lens cases available, depending on your specific needs. Each carries in a different way, and some are quite versatile. 

Hard lens cases

These bags look like small suitcases with a hard plastic shell. Photographers usually use them to store expensive lenses while they travel. The tough exterior protects them if they get tossed around. They sometimes even have a lock combination to prevent theft. They are water-resistant and dirt-proof.

The hard shell camera lens bag is lightweight, and inside, there is foam in the shape of the lens to keep it in place. However, this case is not that convenient to use on the go. The only way to hold it is with a handle, which means you won’t have your hands free to take pictures.

Soft lens cases

This camera lens case has a nylon or other waterproof exterior. It generally has a zipper at the top, which lets you store the lens upright. Like the hard shell case, this camera lens bag protects your gear from moisture and dust. It has a padded interior to make sure it doesn’t get damaged.

The main benefit of this camera lens case is how you carry it. Most of these cases have a loop at the back, meaning you can hook them onto your belt. For instance, the Lowepro Lens Case 9 x 13cm has an attachment tap to hook onto your belt or a Lowepro bag. Other cases have a shoulder strap, which keeps the lens handy, yet out of the way.

Lens pouches

This is similar to the soft lens case. The main difference is that it’s less firm, with a structured shape. It closes at the top with a drawstring, making it harder to handle while holding a camera. However, it offers the same protection as the other cases and can clip onto your bag with a hook. A pouch is also a good option if you want added protection inside a bigger camera bag.

What to consider when picking a camera lens bag

• Size. The lens should be snug inside the case. If it’s too big, it can thrash around and get damaged. But if it’s too small, it loses its purpose. For example, if you have a telephoto lens, you’ll need a camera bag for long lenses, like the Lowepro Lens Case 13 x 32cm.
• Material. The outside fabric should protect your lens from humidity and bad weather. Something like neoprene or nylon canvas is always a good choice. As for the interior, it should have enough padding but also be easy to clean. Any dirt that gets caught inside will hurt the gear.
• Convenience. Think of how you want to use the lens and pick a camera lens bag to help you achieve that. It can be either one with a shoulder strap, belt loop, or several compartments. The ProTactic Lens Exchange 200 AW expands to hold two lenses, which means you can change the lenses with one hand.

How do you store camera lenses in a bag?

After you find the best lens case, here are a few tips to help you use it to its full potential.

•  Disconnect the lens from the camera. Storing them together is unsafe, even if they fit within the case. If you drop your camera, it’s much more fragile with the lens attached.
• Put the lens cap on. This will provide extra protection from dust or if you drop the bag by accident.
• Store the lens facing up. If the bag drops, the glass won’t hit the floor.
• Keep the lens in a separate compartment. Throwing other small items in the bag might be tempting, but those can scratch the glass.
• Pack cleaning wipes. Before you store the lens away, clean it, especially if you’ve been shooting outdoors.