My name is Weaver and I am addicted to photography equipment. Camera bags are a particularly notable weakness. Like knights of yore on a quest for the Holy Grail, I have spent much of my life (as well as a small fortune that by now probably equals the GDP of a third world country) in search of the perfect camera bag.

The perfect bag, in my view, is something that only a Harry Potter could conjure up. It would be waterproof and dustproof, afford substantial cushioning, hold vast quantities of gear and transport itself wherever the photographer directs. Alas. I don't have Harry's abilities, but after many failed attempts, I have found a few bags that meet enough of my criteria to justify their continued use, and one of them merits special mention.

For my money, there is no better bag for a Leica M photographer than a Billingham. As is the case with Leica equipment, Billinghams are made with exquisite materials and excellent workmanship. The outside of the bag is durable canvas backed by a waterproof liner and trimmed in leather. The inside is cushioned and partitioned velour. The bags are both beautiful and functional.

My Hadley Pro model easily holds an M, three lenses, a polarizer and sundry other accesssories yet remains relatively easy to carry around for a full day due to the slim, hip hugging design and the comfortable padding on the very sturdy strap. Billinghams are expensive but will last most photographers a lifetime and possibly two. Got a Leica (or a 35mm film camera)? Get a Billingham. You won't regret it.

(I have no affiliation with Billingham and have received no compensation whatsoever for this piece. The opinions expressed are solely mine.)