Field Test: thinkTANK MindShift PhotoCross 15 Backpack

My thinkTANK Mindshift Photocross 15 backpack review is possible because thinkTANK provided me with this sample backpack. I used it, reviewed it, and now I am giving it away. I also am a member of their affiliate sales, so links via this blog post are affiliate based.

Earlier this spring, I received a thinkTANK MindShift PhotoCross 15 Backpack to use and abuse field test.

I’ve had the backpack for nearly two months now. I’ve carried it on long day hikes in the Scottish Highlands, hauled it on a 4-day bikepacking trip in the Canadian Rockies, and disguised it as a lightweight carry on for multiple flights. Overall, the thinkTANK MindShift PhotoCross 15 Backpack is a solid backpack; however, I encourage you to read on to learn its key features, pros, cons and my overall impression.

Key Features: MindShift PhotoCross 15 Backpack by thinkTANK

But the signature feature that makes this bag unique, is it’s quick-access side panel that provides access to the camera gear without setting the bag down. This might not sound like a big deal, but it’s quite useful when shooting in wet or snowy environments, shooting fast-action sports, and travel scenarios where it might not be safe to leave equipment on the ground.

thinkTank made it clear its new PhotoCross 15 backpack is designed with adventure photographers in mind. It’s weatherproof and built from durable materials that’ll endure countless abuses.  It’s quite comfortable, too, and the hip belt is removable (which I appreciate when using the bag in a city).

Essentially, the bag blends the carrying comfort of a backpack with the functionality of a sling bag.

For such a small backpack, I am blown away by how much gear it can carry. Here are two distinct packing setups I’ve carried using this backpack:

Photography Kit

• Sony A7Riii with 16-35mm f/2.8 attached
• Sony A7Rii with 70-200mm f/4 attached
• Sigma 14mm f/1.8
• Sigma 50mm f/1.4
• Filter Kit
• Spare batteries
• Water bottle
• 4 clif bars
• 1 down jacket

Video Kit

• Sony A7Riii with 24-70mm f/2.8 attached
• Sony A7Rii with Sigma 50mm f/1.4 attached
• DJI Mavic 2 with controller + two spare batteries
• Filter kit
• Spare batteries
• Water bottle
• 4 clif bars
• 1 down jacket

Overall, My Pros and Cons:

thinkTANK MindShift PhotoCross 15 Backpack overall Impression:

I really like this bag, but it doesn’t truly fit my adventure photography style. I love my thinktank Mindshift ROTATION 180 HORIZON for everyday shoots. For larger assignments, I require a larger bag that can carry multiple camera bodies, lenses, tripods, and video equipment.

While I wish I could justify keeping this backpack and use it for shorter trips – I think it’d be the ideal camera daypack for a prolonged trip that included day hikes, city walks, and occasional flights – but it’ll spend too much time in storage.

Instead of keeping it, I’m giving it away!

Camera Bag Giveaway!

To be clear, I am not giving away a brand new thinkTank Mindshift PhotoCross 15 backpack. I am giving away the one I’ve had for the past two months. It’s used but trust me. It’s in great condition and it’ll last for years!

Winning is easy. Join my Adventure photography talks, tips, and trips facebook group between now and August 15, 2019. Find the giveaway thread and follow it’s instructions!  Good luck!