Ona Camera Bags: Where Are They Made?

ONA is a New York-based company that produces fine camera bags for photographers and creative entrepreneurs. The company was founded in 2010 by Tracy Foster, who was inspired to create stylish camera bags after a trip to South Africa in 2008. ONA bags are handcrafted in the Dominican Republic from premium materials such as full-grain Italian leather, waxed cotton canvas, and closed-cell foam. The bags are designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with a retro look that complements high-end camera gear.

ONA's dedication to craftsmanship

ONA, which in Swahili means "to feel", "to believe", and "to experience with the eyes", is dedicated to creating camera bags that transcend the term "camera bag" by combining innovative function with classically modern style. Their bags are handcrafted from premium materials, including full-grain cowhide leather, waxed cotton canvas, and closed-cell foam.

The quality of ONA's craftsmanship is reflected in the durability and beauty of their bags. One reviewer noted that their ONA bag had accumulated a beautiful patina over five years of use, and that the hardware remained sturdy, unlike those of imitator brands. Another reviewer praised the luxury materials and hardware of their ONA bag, noting that it had served as the perfect travel companion over several years.

ONA's commitment to craftsmanship extends beyond the physical product. The company is dedicated to supporting purposeful storytelling around the world through partnerships with photography-oriented nonprofits like Charity Water and 100 Cameras. ONA also values customer feedback and incorporates input from leading photographers into their designs.

The company's founder, Tracy Foster

Foster's passion for photography and desire for a fashionable camera bag led to the creation of ONA, a company dedicated to crafting fine bags for creative entrepreneurs and photographers. ONA's bags are known for their handcrafted leather and canvas designs, with a focus on combining functionality and modern style. The name ONA, derived from the Swahili word meaning "to feel," "to believe," and "to experience with the eyes", embodies the essence of photography and style that Foster wanted to capture in her products.

Foster's attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in the production process. ONA partners with a family-owned factory in the Dominican Republic, prioritising transparency by showcasing the handmade process behind each bag. This dedication to craftsmanship has resulted in the creation of durable and beautiful bags that have gained a loyal following among photographers and creatives.

In addition to her focus on design and quality, Foster also believes in the power of photography to tell stories and drive positive change. This belief is reflected in ONA's partnerships with photography-oriented nonprofits, such as Charity Water and 100 Cameras. Foster's commitment to supporting purposeful storytelling around the world further sets ONA apart, combining her passion for photography with a desire to make a difference.

The production process

ONA, a New York-based company, was founded in 2010 by Tracy Foster. The company handcrafts leather and canvas camera bags for photographers and creative entrepreneurs. The founder's trip to South Africa in 2008 inspired her to create stylish camera bags, as she was dissatisfied with her "boring" camera bag.

Upon her return, Foster researched materials, developed designs, and established a working relationship with a family-owned factory in the Dominican Republic. ONA bags are made from full-grain cowhide leather, waxed cotton canvas, and closed-cell foam. The leather is imported from Italy.

The company is dedicated to supporting purposeful storytelling around the world and has partnered with photography-oriented non-profits and charities.

The different styles of ONA bags

ONA offers a range of camera bags in different styles, including messenger bags, small camera bags, shoulder bags, and backpacks. Each style is designed with functionality and style in mind, handcrafted from premium materials such as full-grain cowhide leather, waxed cotton canvas, and closed-cell foam. Here is a more detailed look at the different styles of ONA bags:

The Messenger Bag

The ONA Prince Street and Brixton are two popular messenger bag styles. Both bags are made of quality leather and feature a similar design with two front pockets and adjustable brass tuck-clasps. The main difference between the two is their size, with the Brixton being larger and able to accommodate more gear. The Brixton is also the only one of the two that has side pockets. The Prince Street, however, features a full-length handle that is clasped into the side buckles of the shoulder strap, making it more convenient and comfortable to carry when fully packed.

The Small Camera Bag

ONA's small camera bag, also known as a sling bag, is designed to hold a camera and small items such as extra memory cards or batteries. It is smaller than a messenger bag but larger than a shoulder bag. The Bowery is one of ONA's most popular small camera bags, known for its perfect size for daily adventures and its luxury materials and hardware. It features extra pouches for essentials and a large pouch in the back for items like a notebook or book. The Bowery also has water-resistant waxed canvas and side weather flaps to protect your camera from the elements.

The Shoulder Bag

ONA's shoulder bag, also known as a sling bag, is designed to be worn over one shoulder. It is a bit larger than the small camera bag but smaller than the messenger bag. One of ONA's shoulder bags is the Crosby Camera Bag, which comes in different colours such as dark truffle and antique cognac.

The Backpack

ONA's backpack style is designed with two straps that distribute the weight of the bag evenly across your shoulders. Their backpack styles include the Camps Bay Backpack and the Big Sur Camera Backpack, which is made of black canvas.

The materials used to build ONA bags

ONA bags are handcrafted from premium materials and developed with input and feedback from some of today's leading photographers. The company's founder and designer, Tracy Foster, established a working relationship with a family-owned factory in the Dominican Republic to produce the bags.

ONA bags are made from full-grain leather and waxed canvas, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while ageing gracefully. The leather used in ONA bags is imported from Italy and is lightly waxed, giving it a broken-in feel. The waxed canvas used in the bags provides water resistance, protecting cameras and other equipment from the elements.

In addition to leather and canvas, ONA bags feature solid brass hardware and metal clasps. These materials contribute to the bags' durability and timeless aesthetic. The hardware is designed to be sturdy and long-lasting, with a pre-worn patina that adds to the bags' overall style.

Overall, ONA bags are constructed with high-quality materials that ensure both functionality and elegance. The combination of leather, waxed canvas, and solid brass hardware creates a premium look and feel, catering to photographers and creative professionals who value style, subtlety, and gear protection.

Frequently asked questions