The importance of buying the proper camera bag or case cannot be overstated. Your camera will last longer and be easier to transport. You will protect your camera from any unnecessary accidents by storing it in a case or bag. Not all bags are created equal, though, and that's where this buyer's guide comes in handy. Your bag or case needs will depend on a number of factors, all of which, when carefully weighed, will help you make the right decision. Whether you are a seasoned videographer who has bought many bags and cases over the years, or maybe you are someone who is ready to move your camera out of its original cardboard box, this buyer's guide will fill your needs. In order to make the decision process easier, we have laid out some simple steps.

Step 1: How Will You Use the Bag or Camcorder Case?

The first step in deciding what to buy is first deciding how you will be using it. Understanding what your needs are will go a long way in making the buying decision easier. Start by identifying the kind of videographer you are. If you are an amateur that will shoot video on the weekends or any chance you can get, your needs will differ from the needs of a pro. Some videographers need protection for their camera when in storage or during transportation. Cases are an excellent alternative to a camera bag. You do not have to be a professional to see the importance of placing your camcorder in a case. I have a close friend that is also an avid weekend videographer. He has a bad habit of dropping camcorder bags, so he purchased a hard case. Now he doesn't need to worry about dropping the case and breaking the valuable equipment inside. Identifying your needs goes just beyond your skill level. Think about how often you shoot as well as where you often find yourself. Indoor and outdoor environments call for different protection for the camera.

Step 2: Making Sure Your Camcorder Case Or Bag fits Your Camera

Equipment needs will be the next step in your buying process. Your choice of camera, lights and other accessories can and will play a part in the type of bag or case you choose. Take a look at your camera. Note its length and design. You may want to refer to your owner's manual and jot down the camcorder's dimensions. Since it is the main piece in this discussion, it's a good idea to get its measurements accurately so when you shop for the right bag or case you see how it fits. And actually try to get one that's a bit bigger than the dimensions, so if you keep batteries and accessories attached, they won't be crunched. (NOTE: It's a bad habit not to remove the battery when you aren't using the camera, but we all know most of us don't follow this rule.)

Some cameras have separate thin nylon bags that either come with the camera when you buy it or are available to purchase. These rarely do little more than cover the camera. You won't be getting any sort of real protection for the camera. Nor will you have any good extra storage compartments. Some videographers find that no matter how carefully they plan ahead, they always find they are missing something. They end up carrying a lot of gear with them. If you are one of these videographers, consider buying a separate bag or case for your gear accessories. Your mode of transportation can also dictate your bag or case choices. Maybe your SUV needs to have some suspension work done soon. You will not want your camera to take the brunt of the jolts, so consider placing the camera in a hard case. Will you need to carry your camera with you go out to sea? Well, here you will want to think about a lightweight, waterproof bag or backpack, so your camera will be ready to go when you need it.