Borbin the 🐱

To expand my Nikon setup, I added the Z50 II to complement my Z30, which I primarily use for panoramic photography with a fisheye lens.
Both cameras are light weight and have a small form factor that makes it a perfect set that can fit in a small travel bag.

Regarding the travel bag, I was curious how the complimentary Nikon GL X Nikon Splash Crossbody Bag (Black) fits into the overall setup and how I might make use of it.

It quickly became clear what it was: a bag. Technically. Ideal for transporting your hopes, dreams, and maybe a lens cap.

When the Accessory Is More Fiction Than Function

The Nikon GL X Nikon Splash Crossbody Bag (Black) is normally sold separately for $99.
Imagine paying full price for it. For this price, you get a stylish crossbody bag that claims to carry your mirrorless camera gear. It also claims to offer comfort, space, and practicality. What it actually offers is a tight squeeze, a stubborn flap, and a valuable lesson in product descriptions.

For reference, here is the actual product description from the website:

Carry your mirrorless camera gear in this black GL X Nikon Splash Crossbody Bag from Nikon. This bag can comfortably house a small Nikon mirrorless camera with the lens attached and an extra lens. A hook-and-loop divider can be used to separate your gear in the bag's main section. This bag has two zipped pockets with large zipper pulls and a rear slip-in pocket for small items you want quick access to.

Focus on 'comfortably house a small Nikon mirrorless camera with the lens attached and an extra lens'

The Introduction

Camera and bag shown side by side. The bag appears designed for a camera that exists only in marketing illustrations. Internal volume suggests compatibility with a compact point-and-shoot, not a mirrorless system.

The Reality Check

Camera and bag shown separately. Bag looks stylish and minimal. Camera looks like it is wondering where its actual bag went.

The Attempt

Camera inserted. Fit is tight enough to qualify as compression therapy. Remaining space for a second lens is theoretical. Bag closure now requires optimism and duct tape.

The Closure Crisis

Flap refuses to close. Camera exceeds internal volume. Bag now functions as a loosely draped accessory with aspirations of utility.

First Set of Photos Taken While the Bag Watched Helplessly

1/125s f/2,8 ISO 1000 40mm f/2,0

1/250s f/3,2 ISO 400/27° 40mm f/2,0

1/125s f/2,8 ISO 500 40mm f/2,0

1/125s f/2,8 ISO 720 40mm f/2,0

1/125s f/2,8 ISO 800/30° 40mm f/2,0

1/250s f/3,2 ISO 1600/33° 40mm f/2,0

Second Set of Photos Taken While the Bag Stayed Indoors, Quietly Accepting Its Fate

1/500s f/8,0 ISO 100/21°

1/500s f/8,0 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=92mm/138mm

1/500s f/8,0 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=47mm/70mm

1/500s f/8,0 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=40mm/60mm

1/320s f/6,3 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=23mm/35mm

1/400s f/7,1 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=29mm/44mm

1/320s f/7,1 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=44mm/66mm

1/500s f/8,0 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=26mm/39mm

1/400s f/7,1 ISO 100/21° 18-140mm f/3,5-6,3 VR f=82mm/123mm

1/500s f/6,3 ISO 180 50-250mm f/4,5-6,3 VR f=250mm/375mm

1/500s f/5,6 ISO 6400/39° 50-250mm f/4,5-6,3 VR f=175mm/262mm

The Nikon Z50 II should have been available decades earlier, or I should have been available decades later. It brings modern photography into focus without complicating the experience. With improved autofocus, streamlined connectivity that includes Cloud and FTP upload, and solid image quality, it is simply fun to use. I was taking a picture of my cat running, and it instantly focused on the eyes. Quite impressive.
Full-frame models offer more features, including in-body image stabilization (IBIS), but they are heavier and larger. Sometimes, things are just good enough for what you do.