Gadget Watch: Camera Straps

Do you use a camera strap? Using a camera strap is a matter of personal taste but according to a recent digital photography forum poll over 88% of the included photographers said they did use some type of strap, either a shoulder or a hand strap.

The main reason for using a camera strap was the issue of safety, to prevent the dropping of expensive equipment. A second reason given for straps was the use of more then one camera during a shoot and camera straps make it easy to quickly switch from one camera to the other on the fly.

As a counter balance, most people who reported using a camera strap also mentioned them getting in the way. I fall within this group of photographers, I usually use a camera strap but yes it does often get in my way.

As one poll participant put it, “Yes, the straps can get in the way, but dropping a $3500 set-up is worse.” I’ve never fumbled a camera but all it takes is that first time.

Assuming you do want to use a (shoulder) strap then you’ll want one which works well and is comfortable. You’ll want one which stays on your shoulder without effort, distributes the weight evenly and perhaps has a quick disconnect option. There are even some straps which have woven in wire so they can’t be cut easily by a grab-and-run thief with a knife.

Asking photographers which is the best strap will get varied opinions based upon personal preference and individual needs. I’ve compiled a list (in no particular order) of some straps which seem to get positive mentions most often:

Op/Tech Pro – A well padded contoured strap which claims to make you equipment instantly feel lighter by evenly dispersing the weight. Its use of “no slip” material allows for gear to be safely carried slung over the shoulder.

Domke Straps – A wide variety of straps to meet almost any need. Domke straps can be found at most on-line camera equipment retailers.

UPstrap – The UPstrap is proclaim by the manufacturer as the “ultimate non-slip shoulder strap” for cameras and bags. It uses a pattented all surface non-slip pad to remove the slipping annoyance and also claims to greatly reduce the root cause of many neck, lower back and shoulder problems associated with carrying heavy camera gear.

BlackRapid R-Strap – The R-Strap is billed as the most innovative camera strap ever to hit the market allowing your camera to be worn at your hip with the lens pointing behind you. When ready to take a shot the camera quickly glides up the strap into shooting position.

The most inexpensive option would be using the provided manufacturers strap which comes with most D/SLR these days. I personally don’t like this option for two reasons:

• the straps are often narrow and uncomfortable if used with a heavy lens attached; and
• most have the camera brand name (and sometimes model) printed brightly on them advertising to every thief in sight what type of camera you’re using.

Straps…to use or not to use?

Take your pick and live with your choice. ;-)

Disclaimer: The sole purpose this posts is to highlight unusual or handy photography and computer related gadgets or gear. It in no way endorses mentioned products. I have no ties with this company.