Think Tank Shape Shifter 25L
The Think Tank Shape Shifter 25L is a highly adaptable camera backpack designed for photographers who need to move quickly and keep their load streamlined. Rather than relying on a conventional fixed divider layout, the Shape Shifter uses reconfigurable gear pouches and hold-down straps, allowing the bag to compress as your equipment load changes. It accommodates 1-2 standard camera bodies, 2-3 lenses up to a 70-200mm f/2.8 and a 15-inch laptop, making it particularly well suited to photojournalists, event photographers and travelling shooters who value flexibility over rigid organisation.
The Perfect Camera Backpack For
- Photojournalists who need to move quickly with a compact working kit.
- Travel photographers who want a bag that compresses when carrying less equipment.
- Event and documentary photographers who need fast access to multiple lenses.
- Photographers carrying 1-2 bodies, a small professional lens kit and a laptop.
Key Features
- 25-litre compressible camera backpack.
- Fits 1-2 standard-size camera bodies.
- Holds 2-3 lenses plus accessories.
- Maximum recommended lens size of 70-200mm f/2.8.
- Reconfigurable internal gear pouches and camera hold-down straps.
- Divider-free design for flexible packing.
- Quick-access front pockets can hold a 70-200mm f/2.8.
- Dedicated laptop compartment for a 15-inch laptop.
- Removable, tuck-away waist belt and adjustable sternum strap.
- Tripod, monopod or light stand attachment system.
A Backpack That Changes with Your Kit
The defining feature of the Shape Shifter is its ability to compress around the amount of equipment you're actually carrying. Instead of maintaining the same bulky shape whether full or half empty, the 25L version can reduce its depth from approximately 17.9cm to just 10cm.
Flexible Divider-Free Organisation
Reconfigurable padded gear pouches and hold-down straps replace a conventional fixed divider grid. This allows individual cameras and lenses to be positioned around the way you work, while making the interior easier to reconfigure as assignments and equipment change.
Fast Lens Access
Front quick-access pockets can accommodate lenses up to a 70-200mm f/2.8, giving photographers an alternative way to organise frequently used optics. This is particularly useful for photojournalism and event work where rapid lens changes matter.
Built for Photographers on the Move
A padded harness, adjustable sternum strap and removable waist belt provide support when walking with a loaded bag. The waist belt can be tucked away when it isn't required, and a belt pass-through is compatible with Think Tank's Pro Speed Belt system.
Travel-Friendly Design
Think Tank states that the Shape Shifter 25L meets most international and US airline carry-on requirements. A luggage pass-through makes it easy to secure the backpack to a roller bag, while a hidden security pocket provides discreet storage for valuables.
Tripod and Accessory Carry
The multipurpose tripod cup can support a tripod, monopod or light stand. D-rings on the shoulder straps provide additional attachment points for smaller accessories, while an expandable front organiser and top quick-access pocket keep everyday items close at hand.
Dimensions and Weight
- External dimensions: 30 × 43 × 10-17.9cm, compressible.
- Capacity: 25 litres.
- Weight: approximately 1.72kg with accessories fitted.
- Minimum weight: approximately 1.32kg.
- Laptop sleeve: 26.5 × 37.5 × 2.5cm.
What's Included
- 1 × Think Tank Shape Shifter 25L Backpack
- 1 × Body Bag
- 1 × Small Gear Pouch
- 1 × Medium Gear Pouch
- 1 × Large Gear Pouch
- 2 × Camera Hold-Down Straps
- 2 × Bumper Pads
- 1 × Tripod Strap
- 1 × Removable Waist Belt
- 1 × Rain Cover
TFC's Verdict
The Shape Shifter 25L is a very different proposition from a traditional camera backpack, and that's what makes it interesting. If your kit changes regularly or you dislike carrying a half-empty rigid bag, the compressible design makes a lot of sense. It's especially well suited to photojournalists, documentary shooters and travelling photographers who want their bag to adapt to the assignment rather than dictate how the equipment has to be packed.
MPN: 720468
