Photographers who own long, fast prime lenses require specialized bags that not only accommodate large lenses but also have space for cameras and additional accessories. While most larger bags are designed to carry just the lens, Vanguard’s Alta Sky 66 offers the perfect solution for those who want to keep their camera attached to the lens for convenience.
Though I don’t often have the chance to work with such large lenses, I borrowed a Nikon Z8 paired with a Nikkor 400mm f/2.8 and 200-400mm f/4 to test the Alta Sky 66. Both lenses fit seamlessly into the bag, with the camera still attached—a rare feature in most camera bags. Vanguard even claims that it can accommodate most 800mm f/5.6 lenses with the camera attached.
The bag’s design makes it incredibly easy to access your gear. The zippers open wide, revealing a large compartment that allows you to pull out your camera and lens effortlessly. A removable foam pad inside provides additional protection, ensuring that your camera remains secure. For those carrying lens hoods, a removable circular foam pad can be left in place or taken out, depending on your needs.
The exterior of the bag is constructed from tough, durable dark grey nylon, complemented by strong, robust zippers. It also comes with a full-size rain cover, offering extra protection for your valuable equipment in adverse weather conditions.
Comfort is a key feature of the Alta Sky 66. Its adjustable ergonomic Air System back panel and harness include both waist and sternum straps, ensuring the bag stays stable and comfortable during long hikes or extended shoots. The lower padding is strategically positioned to distribute weight, making it feel lighter than traditional backpacks. Wide, well-padded shoulder straps further enhance comfort, even on warmer days.
The bag also includes additional pockets, which I found useful for carrying an iPad, extra batteries, memory cards and my water bottle. The bright yellow interior is another practical touch, making it easier to spot smaller items like car keys or memory cards. The bag even includes a headphone port for convenient access to your wired devices stored inside.
For photographers using super-telephoto lenses, the Alta Sky 66 offers a secure tripod/monopod retention system, ensuring stability while carrying additional equipment.
The only limitation of this bag is its size for airline travel. Its exterior dimensions (62 x 29 x 29 cm) exceed standard carry-on allowances (55 x 23 x 40 cm), meaning it would need to be checked in for most flights. In such cases, I would recommend packing the bag inside a larger suitcase or using a luggage strap to compress it to carry-on size—though it’s always best to confirm with the airline in advance.
Overall, it’s easy to see why the Alta Sky 66 (along with the slightly larger Alta Sky 68) remains one of the most popular photography backpacks available. Its ability to carry large lenses, combined with its durability and comfort, makes it an excellent choice for photographers who need to carry long lenses and additional gear—whether in the field or on remote shoots. If you’re in the market for a versatile and well-constructed backpack, the Alta Sky 66 should be at the top of your list.
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Author: Will Prentice
A portrait, fine art and commercial photographer for 30 plus years, Will Prentice is not just a contributor to PHOTONews magazine, but also host of PHOTONewsTV, owner of Captura Photography+Imaging and Technical Support/Brand Manager for Amplis Foto, Canada’s largest distributor of photographic equipment.
Will teaches photographers of all skill levels how to improve their craft – from creative photo projects to picking the right gear for their needs to flattering lighting to getting the best expressions to creating final images for screen and print. His unique style of highly detailed images with perfect tonality, wide dynamic range and stunning colour is instantly recognizable. Commercial clients rely on Will’s creative eye and mastery of lighting.
When he’s not behind the camera or in front of a class, you’ll find Will outdoors in any weather – usually on one of his bikes or enjoying time with his grandchildren.
WIll the bag accommodate a DSLR with a battery grip attached?