For those that haven't seen them yet, jill-e designs has released a whole range of Fashion Photo Accesories specifically for women.
Calumet Photo now carries the line. Go to their web site and type jill in the search box.
A description of the products from Calumet's press release:
"Normal black-on-black, no-frills kit bags and backpacks are functional, but not necessarily flattering for the professional female photographer. And that’s the exact reason jill-e designs has introduced jill-e Fashion Camera Bags, the first practical field bags designed with the fashion-forward photographer in mind.
Jill-e bags employ designs, colors and materials that take essential photographic accessories far beyond the traditional male-oriented offerings and are available in a variety of styles to match your personal flair, from chic cream to classic black to vibrant red. Each rugged, weatherproof bag includes functional features like comfortable padded shoulder straps, adjustable Velcro dividers and netted accessories pockets, plus handy detachable pouches for your personal items. Fit your complete kit in the small bag; add an extra body and flash to the medium; and even slip a laptop in the large—or try the petite wristlet on for size, a cute complement to any point-and-shoot."
Let me start by saying I am fairly neutral about this kind of stuff. I see both sides. As a photographer, I don't perceive female shooters (especially pros) as being any different from us guys. Certainly not to the point of assuming they would want (or need) smaller, cutsey, more "stylish" bags to stow their gear in.
And yet I completely understand some women liking that kind of thing. I mean, everyone has a choice, right?
BTW, this is from the jill-e press release:
"New Company Offers Stylish, Functional Product Line ‘Designed by Women for Women’. Finally, there’s a high-quality, high-style alternative for the serious female photographer who has had to make do with drab, male-oriented bags, straps and related accessories that dominate photo retailer shelves and catalogs. jill-e designs, a new company, today announced its line of “extraordinary” accessory products for the professional and advanced amateur female photographer. These products appeal to the heightened sense of fashion and aesthetics many women enjoy, while delivering a rugged functionality that serious female photographers require, the company said."
To be honest, I do find this a bit sexist, a bit of a putdown implying (compared to many women) men's sense of style leaves much to be desired.
Luckily, I have a thick skin...
BTW, this part cracks me up:
"Already gaining recognition, bags and other accessories from jill-e (rhymes with Billy) designs..."
jill-e rhymes with Billy??? Boy, glad you cleared that up for me...
Anyway, I'd love to know your thoughts on the product, or at least the idea. Guys, too. And be sure to vote in the poll... :thumbsup: