Dakota Esposito

Good add: cracking often starts from handling not drops. Avoid snapping a stiff corner on/off first or prying near the buttons; put it on from the softer side and remove from the bottom. Also skip alcohol wipes and don’t leave the phone on a hot car dash, both can embrittle clear polycarbonate. For your budget, a grippy TPU with raised corners plus a standard (not edge-to-edge) tempered glass tends to last longer and won’t fight the case.

Adding one thing - Co-sign on the 20–25L target; also check the empty weight - under about 2 to 2.5 pounds makes a big difference once it’s loaded for two. A structured rectangular bag with a hip/waist belt (even more than a chest strap) and stroller clips spreads weight better and gives you clean one-handed access. Toss in a slim wet bag and travel-size creams and and keep a small resupply kit in the car or stroller so the main pack stays reasonable.

Photo walks are efficient because everyone expects to pause and talk while shooting. Check the local camera store or museum for workshops and show up early to help move chairs. Offer to share a few edits afterward and ask for theirs. Small volunteer gigs at community events put you near organizers who know many people. Keep your kit simple so you are approachable and free to chat.