This Is How We Work With A View Camera.
There is always a lot of discussion on how best to carry LF gear in the field. Seems that most people like to carry their camera in a backpack. That is our favorite mode of transportation in the field for sure. We like the backpack idea so much that Susan builds our packs to custom fit our cameras and accessories. All that we have learned about camera packs has been worked out the hard way. We have copied the features of commercial packs that we find useful and modified as required.
It seems that most people plop their pack down on the ground when they get ready to shoot. That is fine, unless you are in mud, water, or knee deep in snow. I have never liked the idea of setting my pack on the ground. And, yes I know, there are those that carry a tarp, but that is way too much trouble for me. I want to find my subject, plop down my tripod and then get to work without having to look for a convenient and safe place to put down the pack. This thinking led to a modification to both the tripod and the pack. Susan added a webbing loop to the top of the pack and I added a hook on the bottom of the tripod crown. This allows us to hang the pack from the tripod, keeping it out of the dirt and making it very accessible.
We both have worked out a system that allows us to carry everything we need and work efficiently in most any situation. The packs we use have a large compartment in the bottom for the camera and a separate top compartment for lenses and accessories. The custom packs also have room for several film holders.
This is how we do it and it has proven to be very efficient. However you choose to work in the field, the most important thing is to have everything you need with you, well protected, and easily within reach.
JB