The best photo vests may not be the most stylish garments you've ever worn, but in terms of helping you carry your photo kit, they are second to none. Designed for pure practicality and ease when you're on a kit-heavy photoshoot, photo vests boast an inordinate number of pockets to store away your memory cards, spare batteries, lenses and more. The hardest part will be remembering where you've put everything!
While the best waterproof jackets for photographers and the best rain covers for cameras might be better equipped to handle sudden downpours of rain, the best photo vests keep you mobile and allow you to move quietly – a huge advantage for wildlife photography. Plus, many vests come with a hood with a wired peak, designed to keep the rain off your face as you watch for your subject.
I've rounded up the best photo vests available to help you choose the best one for you. I've included options at a range of price points – though bear in mind that some of the vests I've picked are only widely available in certain territories (I've specified where this is the case). For more kit-carrying options, check out our guide to the best camera bags.
Ben is the Imaging Labs manager, and the team's man-at-arms when it comes to camera bags, filters, memory cards, and all manner of camera accessories – his lab is a bit like the Batcave of photography! With years of experience trialling and testing kit, he's a human encyclopedia of benchmarks when it comes to recommending the best buys, not to mention a dapper dresser when it comes to modelling photographers' attire.
The best photo vests
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Best overall
Domke is the photo vest that has been worn by professional photographers for decades. The PhotoTogs disappeared for a number of years, but is back on sale again, providing the traditional design that many of us have loved. This is the vest that accredited pros were given at the London Olympics. A big attraction of this vest is the two huge back pockets, in which you can stow away lenses until you need them. There are 12 pockets in all, and a detachable vinyl-windowed holder into which you can put your ID or press pass.
Best for travel
This is a traditional-style vest that is made from 100% cotton, which will appeal to those working in warm conditions, or who want something that is washable. This budget option boasts that it has 21 different pockets – ensuring that every accessory you can think of can be stored away in its rightful place.
Best for cold weather
Relatively sleek and stylish, the Haukland Photography Vest comes in black only and has been extensively padded to deal with cold weather. It features ten pockets, which isn't as many as some of the more heavy-duty photography vests, but is still pretty decent. Also, on the inside is a handy 'mini photo bag' with pockets specifically designated for batteries and SD cards.
Best smart vest
A vest with an app — is there anything more 21st century than that? The COOPH Heatable Photo Vest features an active heating system powered by a rechargeable battery, and if you connect it to the smartphone app, you can fine-tune the heating level according to your needs. The battery can be charged via any standard power bank, and the makers say it has about five hours of power in it – not enough for a full day, so you'll need to keep it topped up on particularly cold ones.
Best for video
This vest is designed for use by professional videographers in mind. It has 23 pockets to cater to the needs of those involved in electronic news-gathering — for brick batteries, walkie-talkies, tools, and much more. This has a robust feel, and is made with Cordura to ensure it is waterproof – but comes with a pro-level price to match its credentials. However, it's quite difficult to find outside of the US.
Best budget
As the name suggests, this Humvee vest has a more military appearance compared to the Safari option in the company's range. This is made of nylon and breathable mesh panels for use in all conditions. There are 14 pockets available for storing your gear. Unlike the Safari vest, however, this one is currently only in stock and available in the US.
How to choose a photo vest
1. Find the right size:
Most of the sizes available will be as expected, but if you're in doubt, then you might want to size up – many of the vests will have drawstring waists and adjustable cuffs.
2. Pockets galore:
The most useful thing about the best photo vests is how much they can carry. Some even have pockets that are big enough to hold a lens or two!
3. The sound of silence:
If you're a wildlife photographer, you'll know how important it is to invest in wildlife-friendly clothing. Look for a neutral color that won't attract attention and a rustle-free fabric without any noisy hook-and-loop (also known as Velcro) fastenings to be as stealthy as possible.
Read more:
Best rain covers for your camera gear
Best waterproof jackets for photographers
Best camera bags and cases for photographers
Best messenger bags for photographers
Best camera sling bags
