19 Best Camera Straps of 2024 (+ PRO Tips for Choosing)
It's hard to settle on just one, so here's a list of the best 19 camera straps in 2023! Neck, wrist, waist & shoulder straps for DSLR and mirrorless.
I’ve spent months researching and updating this guide in my quest to find the best camera strap available in 2024.
Much like camera bags, most photographers own several cameras straps, swapping them around to suit the camera or the situation.
I own everything from lightweight hand grip camera straps to fancier leather straps, alternating them during my personal and professional photography work.
High-quality, affordable camera strap that’s versatile, comfortable and lightning quick to adjust.
There are also times when I don’t use anything at all or experiment with minimal camera wrist straps, backpack clips or even a photographer vest.
Whether your goal is to reduce the load on your wrist, spread more of the load across your shoulders, or simply to add a layer of security when shooting, there are plenty of options available to us to carry our cameras.
Here are the best camera straps of the year so far.
Best Camera Straps in 2024
| Image | Product | Features | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Peak Design SlideOUR #1 CHOICE |
| CHECK AMAZON PRICE →CHECK PEAK DESIGN PRICE → | |
 | Clever Supply Anchor StrapHIGHLY RECOMMENDED |
| VIEW PRICE → | |
 | Peak Design Leash V2BEST ADAPTABLE CAMERA STRAP |
| CHECK AMAZON PRICE →CHECK PEAK DESIGN PRICE → | |
 | Peak Design Capture Clip V3BEST CAMERA CLIP |
| CHECK AMAZON PRICE →CHECK PEAK DESIGN PRICE → | |
 | Holdfast Gear MoneyMakerBEST DUAL STRAP |
| VIEW PRICE → | |
 | Lucky Straps Standard 53BEST CUSTOM STRAP |
| VIEW PRICE → | |
 | USA Gear TrueSHOTBEST NECK STRAP |
| VIEW PRICE → | |
 | USA Gear Camera Chest HarnessBEST CHEST HARNESS |
| VIEW PRICE → |
1. Peak Design Slide | Best All Round Camera Strap
Much like the other Peak Design products, the Slide is a hugely popular DSLR camera strap that Peak has called “the most versatile pro camera strap in the world”.
For mirrorless camera shooters, there’s also the Slide Lite – a slimmed-down version of the same crossbody camera strap, which is also suitable for lightweight entry-level DSLRs such as the Nikon D3400.
Available in black with red accents, or grey with brown accents, the Slide is a hugely popular strap among both amateur and professional photographers.
You get a well-designed, comfortable and stylish camera strap that can be worn as a sling, shoulder or neck strap, that’s also excellent value for money.
This is by far my favourite cross body camera strap, since it supports the weight so nicely and when adjusted to the correct length, hangs your camera right at your hip where you can grab it.
The internally padded nylon webbing has a smooth side that glides over clothing in sling mode, and a grippy side that prevents slipping in shoulder mode.
Dual quick-adjusters provide instant access and easy reconfiguration.
As with other Peak Design camera straps, the Anchor Link system can be attached/detached quickly, and the dual points of connection keep your camera more stable than traditional sling straps – see the video above for an explanation of how they work.
In addition, the Anchors now work with any 3rd party tripod plate or L-bracket, as well as any Peak Design plate.
As a testament to Peak Design’s rigorous testing and meticulous attention to detail, the Anchor Links have gone through numerous design iterations before arriving at this most recent edition, which Peak guarantees can support an incredible 90kgs (200lbs)!
It’s a strong enough camera strap for heavy lenses attached to bulky DSLRs but equally suited to smaller mirrorless setups too.
With best-in-class abrasion resistance, you can be confident that these thin cords will support whatever camera/lens combination you attach to it.
If you have a smaller camera, you could also consider the Slide Lite, a thinner version of its big brother (review below).
2. Clever Supply Anchor Strap | Best Leather Camera Strap
Want the practicality of Peak Design’s quick-release anchor fasteners, but prefer the good looks of a more classic leather strap? The innovative ‘Anchor’ from Clever Supply may be the best option for you.
Made from high-quality full-grain leather, tanned and hand-finished in the USA, the Anchor attaches to your camera using Peak Design anchors. That means you get the quick-release functionality of a high-tech strap combined with a classic, vintage design. Win-win!
The leather not only looks great but feels great too – right out of the box. Clever Supply uses medium temper leathers meaning they come with a comfortable, ‘broken-in’ feel to them… and they just keep getting better with age.
The strap comes in three colourways: chestnut, English tan and black. Regardless of which one you choose, it’s bound to work perfectly with whatever you’re wearing – casual or formal – thanks to its stylish retro design.
This makes it great for street photographers and wedding photographers alike (plus anyone in between, really).
The Anchor strap also comes in a range of sizes, so you can choose the length that works best for you and your gear and is suitable for any camera, from film or DSLR cameras to mirrorless.
It may not be the cheapest strap out there, but with the trifecta of quality construction, stylish design and best-in-class quick-release functionality, it’s well worth the spend.
3. Peak Design Capture Camera Clip | Best Camera Clip
If you’re looking for the most innovative way to attach your DSLR to any existing belt or strap, look no further than the Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip.
You can attach your camera to a backpack strap or bag strap, or even your trouser belt by securing the Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip and sliding your camera in place. (The ‘pro’ in its name relates to its ability to carry larger DSLRs.)
If you own one of Peak Design’s award-winning camera bags, you’ll have specifically reinforced loops that have been made especially for the Capture Pro Camera Clip.
The quick-release lock on the inside of the Clip keeps your camera secure yet instantly accessible and works equally well with compact cameras as well as with a DSLR with a large lens attached.
With an all-aluminium, extra-durable construction, the Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip can actually be used as a tripod head, fitting most Arca-type and Manfrotto RC2 tripod heads. (See more travel tripods here.)
The quick-release lock and all-aluminium construction hold your camera during any physical activity while providing instant access for picture-taking.
If you wear a backpack and need the fastest access to your DSLR, the Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip is the perfect solution.
It’s the best camera strap for hiking since you can attach it to any specialist hiking backpack you already own.
4. HoldFast Gear Money Maker | Best Dual Camera Strap
HoldFast Gear wants to help photographers capture their images… in style. Ethically made in the USA, the HoldFast Gear Money Maker is a multi-camera strap with a difference.
Yes, this camera harness has many features of a dual sling camera strap, such as tripod socket connectors (allowing you to carry the camera inverted by your hips), sliders, and safety catches…. but on top of all this, it’s the best leather camera strap for two cameras that simply oozes style.
Worn like a gun holster over the shoulders and in an X across the back with a camera at each hip, you’re sure to attract compliments at every job – there’s not a wedding photography gig that I shoot where at least one guest doesn’t mention my Money Maker strap!
The Money Maker has quickly become one of the most popular camera straps for wedding photographers, or anyone who carries two camera bodies at the same time and cares about their appearance.
It’s been improved since I wrote my original review, with reinforced D-rings and additional safety catches.
There’s also an optional attachment that allows you to carry a third camera across the front of the body, suspended in between the two main straps.
The D-rings can be used to secure a range of other accessories by Holdfast Gear, including several popular leather camera bags, as well as lens pouches like the HoldFast Explorer.
For ladies or those with slender frames, there’s the Money Maker Skinny, which features narrower 1″ straps and removable shoulder pads/D-rings. There’s also the MoneyMaker Solo for wielding just one camera.
Due to their strength, the Money Makers are perfect as a DSLR strap but still flexible enough to be used on smaller mirrorless or compact camera setups too.
Available in a myriad of colours and skins, this is one robust dual leather camera strap that will age beautifully and last a lifetime.
5. Peak Design Leash V2 | Best Adaptable Camera Strap
The entirely crowdfunded Peak Design brand started just a few years back with its first product to help adventurous creatives carry their gear more easily. Fast forward to today, and they now have over 20 products and multiple product design awards.
(Peak Design also features heavily in my roundup of the best camera bags)
The newly re-designed Peak Design Leash v2 (aka the L-BL-3) is a versatile camera strap that represents many functions all in one: camera sling strap, camera neck strap, safety tether, and video stabilizer (if you don’t have a dedicated camera stabilizer).
In short, the Leash v2 can adapt to any shooting situation via its unique anchor link connection system.
You connect up to 4 of the included anchors to your camera, then slide an anchor into the strap fastening to lock it into place.
The Peak Design Leash is slim, lightweight, and comfortable, with seatbelt style webbing that glides easily over your clothes. It has a huge range of adjustments (19-60 inches), and it’s quick and easy to attach or detach your camera with the Anchor Link system.
The Peak Design Leash is super strong, despite its ultralight credentials and the fact that you can easily fold it away into your bag when you don’t need it. The anchor system can support up to 200 lbs (90kgs)!
It’s a well-engineered, minimalist strap that covers all the essentials. Make sure you’re ordering the newly re-designed version of the Leash by clicking the button below. Available in black or ash.
6. Lucky Straps Standard 53
Among all the big-name camera strap manufacturers out there, it feels good to shed some light on a bespoke player with a global reach. We’re talking about the gorgeous leather camera straps created by the team at Lucky Straps.
Lucky Straps has succeeded in creating a popular range of gorgeous leather camera straps that are comfortable, secure, stylish, and completely customizable.
The Standard 53 in Desert Tan is my favourite in the range – a simple, classic design in flexible, soft nubuck leather and strong stitching.
It can be combined with a Quick Release system to make a quick release camera strap allowing fast attachment and removal of the strap from your camera without leaving any dangles or attachments, enabling you to shoot strap-free in seconds.
The camera strap Quick Release system is theft-proof, thanks to a clever locking mechanism. When you pair the Quick Release system with the slash-proof Dyneema webbing and durable leather, you can travel and work worry-free.
The straps and QR system have been load tested to over 110lbs (50kg) – way heavier than any camera + lens combo you’d ever encounter!
Aside from a choice of leather finishes, stitching color and length, you can also emboss the Standard 53 with initials, full name, business name, or business logo for a truly one-of-a-kind strap. You can even infill the embossing with a range of foil colors.
As for sizing, there’s the Standard 53 broader Lucky Strap range for those who shoot larger DSLR and medium format cameras. Or, if you’re sporting a smaller mirrorless camera or classic film SLR, the Slim 30 is the best bet.
There’s also a range of customizable wrist straps too, with everything handmade in Australia and distributed worldwide.
7. Black Rapid Breathe Curve | Best for Females
Having made all their camera straps sling style, BlackRapid became the creators of some of the most innovative camera straps ever, offering an unmatched level of ease and access to your camera, as well as strength and safety.
Blackrapid’s cross-body strap style (also known as a 3-point slinger for cameras) places the camera upside-down against your waist, allowing for fast and easy access at a moment’s notice.
Using ripstop nylon, bomb-proof webbing, fastening to the camera or lens from underneath via the locking FastenR3, the BlackRapid Breathe Curve combines flexibility with reliability and efficiency.
The BlackRapid Breathe Curve further stabilizes the attached camera when used with its included Stabilizing Strap, which secures the strap under the user’s left shoulder and prevents the attached camera from twisting as it rests along one’s right side.
Optimized specifically for female photographers, the BlackRapid Breathe Curve is designed with ergonomic curves for comfort, breathability and even-weight distribution without any compromise in integrity.
It’s strong enough for any DSLR or mirrorless camera and lens combination you throw at it.
Out of all the DSLR camera straps Black Rapid produces, this is the most popular, and it’s easy to see why.
8. Think Tank Camera Strap V2.0
Think Tank Photo designs and produces a wide range of camera-carrying solutions for the professional photographer. The Think Tank Camera Strap V2.0 is a simple, unobtrusive camera neck strap strong enough to support pro-DSLR bodies with pro lenses attached.
The camera lanyard’s 1 inch wide poly spun strap with 3ply bonded nylon thread is both strong and durable. It has non-slip silicone on both sides, saving you the task of checking which side is which when you sling your camera over your shoulder.
This is actually a design feature overlooked by many camera strap manufacturers – having a grip on both sides of the strap is a huge time-saver over the course of a day’s photography.
The Think Tank Camera Strap V2.0 is available in two colours, blue and grey, to quickly differentiate between two similar camera bodies.
Designed to be compressed easily for less bulk and increased portability while travelling, the Camera Strap V2.0 also attaches to Think Tank backpacks and harnesses. It’s frequently used by professional photographers in this way.
9. SpiderPro Camera Holster | Best Holster Strap
The SpiderPro Camera Strap Holster was founded by professional photographers who have revolutionised the way to carry your camera.
The hip holster system frees the upper body by using a utility style belt, with your camera at your hip ready to draw and shoot anytime.
Besides making you feel like a gunslinger, this belt and holster reduce neck and back pain, camera swing, and tangled straps (since there aren’t any).
The Spider Camera Holster belt is padded for comfort, and its triple action buckle ensures that you can’t accidentally undo it.
The camera strap holster plate screws onto the belt, and a pin (that screws into your camera’s tripod socket) slides neatly in and out of the plate, with the holster’s locking system ensuring that your camera is secure.
Comfortable, reliable, and professional, the Spider Camera Holster is perfect for the photographer who wants to invest in a carrying system that will protect the neck and back from the rigors of carrying heavy cameras.
It’s also one of the best camera holsters you’ll find.
10. Lance Non-adjust Neck Strap
Lance Camera Straps was created in 2012 when a street photographer was looking for a camera strap to suit a long day walking around with his camera. It’s a family-run business that offers a range of handmade in the USA, stylish, durable mirrorless camera straps.
The Lance Non-adjust Neck Strap features the high-quality materials that your camera deserves: sturdy polyester cord straps, high-grade weather resistant rubber rings, and stainless steel connectors.
Although touted as a camera neck strap, this stylish, minimalist strap can also be worn as a camera shoulder strap, across the body, or even wrapped around the hand as a camera wrist strap.
However you choose to use them, the Non-adjust straps are hugely popular with compact and mirrorless camera owners. It should be said that they’re slightly too slim to be used comfortably with heavier DSLRs.
They also offer the convenience for photographers to interchange straps by easily detaching the string loop connectors – a feature I wish was on all mirrorless camera straps.
Besides the unique look of the black rubber rings, they also serve to tighten the spliced ends of the strap for added security. The rings are made of high-grade material and are all-weather resistant. Available in several colours.
11. OP/TECH SLR Wrist Strap
With over 460 positive reviews on Amazon, it’s hard to ignore the popularity of the OP/TECH SLR Wrist Strap in this roundup of the best camera straps of the year. It’s also the best camera wrist strap at this bargain price point (click here to see the latest price).
The OP/TECH SLR Wrist Strap is built from durable, comfortable, non-slip neoprene, which adjusts around the wrist with a security slide to keep it firmly in place.
If you dislike the weight of a camera hanging around your neck, I highly recommend a camera wrist strap, and few are as comfortable, affordable and well-built as the OP/TECH SLR Wrist Strap.
Leather and other materials may be more stylish, but neoprene is definitely the most comfortable for prolonged usage.
Another consideration is the size of the braided ribbon cord, which connects this wrist strap to the camera – it’s substantially wide, about 3/8″ x 1/8″, and definitely not a weak link in the strap assembly.
I love the inclusion of quick-release clips that allow you to quickly attach/detach the OP/TECH SLR Wrist Strap from your camera.
Most camera straps’ quick-release functionality is hugely underrated – being able to quickly detach your camera from the main bulk of the strap provides freedom and versatility.
The OP/TECH SLR Wrist Strap is comfortably wide and can be secured to your hand with the included security slide. The length is just right – not so long that your camera will dangle far from your wrist when you let go of it.
Available in royal blue, black, steel grey and forest green.
12. Custom SLR Glide One Strap System
When two photographers were fed up with tangling camera straps, they came up with an idea to solve the problem, enlisted the help of a friend, and produced the immediately popular C-Loop. Following its success, the Custom SLR Glide One Strap System was born.
If you’re fed up with your DSLR bouncing on your chest as you walk, this strap is for you. It uses a comfortable sling strap with the camera hanging upside down at your hip.
When you’re ready to get that shot, you just glide your camera smoothly up the strap, much like a BlackRapid sling strap.
The Glide One Strap System offers quick, easy access to your camera without it getting in your way the rest of the time.
It’s easy to set up and adjust, and with features like the Split Strap Technology (to distribute weight evenly on your shoulder), neoprene padding, and silicone inner grip, it’s a feature-rich and highly functional camera strap.
Swivelling camera strap quick-release buckles allow the camera to rotate freely for maximum flexibility, then detach altogether for increased mobility.
13. Gordy Wrist Strap
The Gordy Strap was created by a photographer who couldn’t find the strap he wanted on the market. Originally a one-man band, Gordy has grown into a local, family-run business where they create a range of beautiful, handmade leather camera straps.
Gordy camera wrist straps are timeless, stylish, simple, and robust leather straps handmade in the USA. They’re especially popular as a mirrorless camera strap or with Leica and Fuji X100 owners.
You can add a pad for heavier cameras to distribute the load and a rubber o-ring to tighten the strap around your hand if you prefer.
Camera wrist straps are a great way to carry your camera, securing the camera to the wrist without getting in the way. If you need your extra hand, you can let the camera dangle safely from your wrist.
Wrist straps can be attached to the right or left side of the camera depending on your preference – their simplicity makes them the best camera straps for mirrorless shooters or for any camera whose small size/weight would make a bulkier strap an annoyance.
The leather on the Gordy, which will soften over time, is secured with a durable waxed cord available in various colours.
Gordy straps have been described as “elegant and rugged all at once” and are often imitated but never bettered. It’s a simple product at first glance, but I have to say that after using mine for over 2 years, it’s the best leather camera wrist strap I’ve ever used.
14. Custom SLR Air Strap
Born out of a successful Kickstarter campaign a few years ago, the Custom SLR Air Strap promises “to do more with less.”
For under 20 bucks, if you’re a traveller or live somewhere with a hot climate, it’s definitely a cheap camera strap that’s worthy of your attention.
Breathable vents made from a moisture-wicking fabric run along with the padding of the Custom SLR Air Strap, allowing air to flow under and through it, meaning no more sweaty marks when the mercury begins to climb. It also makes it extremely lightweight – just 0.32oz./9g!
With its unique quick-adjust slider, you can keep your camera secure at your side to manoeuvre through crowds and tight spaces – when you need to take a photo, just pull and slide to extend the strap.
The wider strap and ergonomic design distribute weight evenly, making your load feel lighter. Cushioned neoprene padding absorbs shock for maximum comfort, and unique swivel-buckle rotates for better flexibility.
If you really want to make the most of the Custom SLR Air Strap, I’d recommend investing in a camera strap attachment called the Custom SLR C-Loop Camera Strap Mount.
This combination allows you to attach the strap to the camera’s tripod mount, leaving the camera to hang upside down at your waist and swivel freely as you move.
15. Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Camera Strap
This is one unassuming camera hand strap by a company that has amassed thousands of fans – just check out all the raving customer reviews on Amazon!
The Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Camera Strap is a simple, well-made product that provides a comfortable base to help you hold your camera steady while shooting.
Compatible with all DSLR and mirrorless cameras that feature a standard 1/4″-20 tripod socket, the Professional Wrist Grip Strap is very quick and easy to install.
The padded, adjustable strap fits neatly around your hand so you can hold your camera securely without worrying about accidental drops. It is also designed to stabilize your camera while shooting.
Priced at under $10, photographers looking for an affordable solution to free up their necks and shoulders from the nuisance of a camera strap will love this neat solution.
The Opteka Professional Wrist Grip Strap is frequently purchased together with the Spider Camera Holster D-Ring for Wrist Strap and the Spider Pro SCS -Single camera System Camera Holster, creating the ultimate camera carrying system for your wrist.
16. Tarion Vintage Camera Strap
At first glance, Tarion seems to be a producer of camera straps Amazon has decided to sell exclusively. However, on closer inspection, Tarion is actually just a little-known manufacturer of low-cost, high-quality photography accessories that has managed to fly under the radar.
I’d seen hundreds of positive reviews for the Tarion Vintage Camera Strap, and since it’s less than $8, I decided to order one to review.
For less than the price of a hot meal, you get a surprisingly well-made, albeit very simple, cotton yarn/PU, cheap camera strap which has a stylish white/brown weave outer and leather-look brown accents.
On the inside of the strap is a non-slip surface that allows you to have your DSLR or mirrorless camera slung over one shoulder without any worry.
The Tarion Vintage Camera Strap fastens to your camera using the metal loops at the top, much like any regular Nikon or Canon camera strap – it just looks a whole lot better with its vintage… dare I say it… hipster aesthetics!
Other styling elements that add to the overall look include an embossed logo and camera image and a small, brass-look ‘pin’ in the shape of a button. Tarion appears to give all its camera straps vintage aesthetics, and I really like the look and feel of this one.
17. TrueSHOT DSLR Camera Strap
Whilst this isn’t officially an Amazon camera strap, the TrueSHOT is one of several camera straps on Amazon that doesn’t appear to have its own dedicated site.
Dubious origins aside, the TrueSHOT Camera Strap has managed to sneak its way into this roundup of the best camera strap due to its enormous popularity among both amateur and professional photographers around the world.
Since the TruSHOT costs under 15 bucks, I ordered a camouflage version to see what the fuss was about.
Fashioned out of neoprene, the same durable but soft material used to make wetsuits, it turned out that this humble camera strap is one of the most comfortable straps I’ve ever tested!
Most camera straps are made from nylon or leather, which looks good but may not be comfortable over extended shoots. The cushion-soft neoprene on the TrueSHOT, on the other hand, is 4mm thick, ensuring even the heaviest camera won’t cause the strap to dig into your skin.
The outside of the TrueShot Camera Strap features your choice of colour (there are 17 available!) and two expandable pockets – perfect for spare batteries, memory cards and business cards. It’s actually a really handy feature to have pockets on a camera strap, and I wish more brands implemented this.
The inner side of the strap features a non-slip surface which keeps your camera from sliding off your shoulder – another feature that nylon or leather camera straps often lack.
I love the inclusion of quick-release clips where the TrueSHOT connects to the camera. This allows you to attach or remove it in seconds – something I find myself doing multiple times during a shoot, especially when shooting in portrait orientation.
All in all, it’s a great value for money, comfortable and functional camera neck strap that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
18. Leica NeckStrap with Anti-Slip Pad
If you can afford to buy one of this iconic camera brand’s R or M series cameras, then you will be blessed with your very own Leica Carry Strap with Anti-Slip. If you can’t, then you just have to buy the strap! As one reviewer put it, “Quite possibly the only Leica item I will ever own!”
As this camera strap is intended to be used on a Leica rangefinder, it’s better suited as a mirrorless camera strap rather than a DSLR camera strap.
It’s also popular among Fujifilm X100-series shooters due to the similar aesthetics to a Leica rangefinder.
The strap itself is lightweight, flexible, and well designed, with D ring connectors that will attach to your camera’s strap lugs. At 42″, it’s longer than the regular Canon or Nikon camera straps that come with your camera, so it goes over your shoulder and under your arm easily.
Aside from the prestige of owning something by Leica, the main reason I decided to include this seemingly simple product in my roundup of the best camera straps of the year is the surprisingly effective anti-slip pad, which allows you to carry your camera on the shoulder without any worries.
Each end of the Leica Carry Strap with Anti-Slip strap is secured by both a D-ring lock and a buckle, meaning that if either piece were to break, the camera would still remain safely attached.
19. Lifemate Scarf Camera Strap
The brand ‘Lifemate’ appears to be another of the camera straps Amazon chooses to stock in one location, but this is one scarf camera strap that’s definitely worthy of our attention.
Scarf camera straps are extremely popular for female photographers who want a comfortable way to carry their cameras, without sacrificing style.
As with camera bags for women, the best camera straps for women often complement an outfit, remaining fashionable without sacrificing function.
The Lifemate Scarf Camera Strap uses rayon, a comfortable and affordable fabric that helps keep its price a bargain at under $12!
The camera strap scarf section offers a choice of stylish patterns to suit every taste, whilst the strap section that attaches to the camera is strong, easy to adjust and dependable.
No matter what vintage, ethnic, polka dot, stripe, or other crazy patterns you choose, the base of the camera strap’s scarf section attaches to the strap with a stylish leather-look brown tab.
If you’re looking for an original way to bring a little colour to your outfit as a photographer, this Lifemate Scarf Camera Strap is affordable and fun. The only problem is choosing one out of the 32 funky patterns!
Types of Camera Straps
- Camera Neck Straps
Carrying a camera around your neck isn’t recommended unless your camera is light… or you’re built like a rugby player!
Having a camera bouncing around your chest while you walk isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, but it does allow extremely fast access to your camera – there’s no fishing around by your side; you just instinctively grab the camera in the right place every time.
If you use a compact camera or lightweight mirrorless set-up and don’t plan on moving quickly, carrying a camera around your neck is still a viable option.
- Shoulder/Cross-Body Camera Straps
This is the most popular type of camera strap, allowing you two principal ways to carry your camera – hanging off one shoulder next to the same side waist or over one shoulder with the camera hanging on the opposite side waist (cross-body).
Having the camera hanging off one shoulder is arguably the fastest way to gain full access to the camera, but it can also be rather insecure.
Having the camera strung across your body allows you to move freely whilst still giving you quick access to your camera.
Spreading the weight across your shoulder and chest can also help alleviate neck pain, which typically makes this style the best camera strap for DSLR shooters.
- Camera Wrist Straps
I’m a big fan of the camera wrist strap for its ability to make the camera feel almost strap-less. Used to provide extra security from accidentally dropping your camera, wrist straps are also a great way to stabilise your shot.
It’s rare to use a camera wrist strap to merely have your camera dangling from your wrist, although I’m sure you could do this if you had something ultra-lightweight, like an instant camera.
Camera wrist straps are a great way to have your camera literally always in hand, which is where it needs to be if you need the absolute fastest method of deployment!
- Camera Clips
I’ve got to hand it to Peak Design – if they’re not creating innovative camera bags and straps, they’re innovating brand-new ways to carry our precious gear.
Case in point, the camera clip. You can expect to see a whole host of imitations hit the market here in 2019, but trust me – none will come even close to the quality of Peak’s offering.
If you wear a backpack, shoulder bag, belt, or any other form of clothing that features a strap, you can attach a camera clip to it, and then attach your camera.
it’s a truly liberating way to carry even the heaviest of camera/lens setups. Still, it really comes into its own with a lightweight compact or mirrorless camera, where you’ll hardly notice the additional weight.
- Dual Camera Straps
Wedding and event photographers, this one is for you! Being able to carry two camera bodies with two different focal lengths attached is often a necessity in the fast-moving environments of weddings and events.
Dual camera straps have come a long way since those hideous bullet-proof vest contraptions we used to see.
Now, having a camera dangling off each hip isn’t an unusual sight, and thanks to a few key leather camera strap manufacturers, you can look pretty damn good while you’re at it ;-)
- Camera Waist Straps
Carrying a camera on your waist is a polarizing one – some photographers swear by it… others claim it pulls their pants down!
Suspending your camera from your waist does take the weight off your shoulders/neck/back, but the debate is still on as to whether having it distributed over one hip is more or less a strain on your body.
One thing’s for sure – being able to grab your camera in an instant, and then return it back with a reassuring click is definitely practical… not to mention a lot of fun.
Aside from feeling like a gun-slinger, camera waist straps also mean that there aren’t any dangling straps to get in your way while shooting.
How to Choose the Best Camera Strap for You
My collection: Roberu leather strap, UPstrap, Gordy wrist strap, BlackRapid RS7 & Holdfast Money Maker.
Choosing a camera strap isn’t as simple as you might first think! Here are a few quick questions to ask yourself when making the decision:
- What material?
The usual choices are leather or nylon, although there are some other fabrics too. Leather looks the best and ages beautifully but can be heavy or uncomfortable in hot climates. It also doesn’t offer the grip of some synthetic materials.
- What attachment?
Depending on the type of attachment, you can attach the strap via the loops on top of your camera or via the tripod screw hole. Some offer quick-release camera strap attachments, and others fasten to your belt or camera backpack straps via clips.
- Neck, wrist or shoulder strap?
Most camera straps can be worn on your neck or shoulder, but some are specific to each. Camera wrist straps are popular for smaller format mirrorless cameras or compact cameras.
- How many cameras?
You can hold one, two, or even three cameras using custom camera straps, which hang on your shoulders or on your waist.
How to Put on a Camera Strap
Before we get into the camera strap reviews, here’s a video that shows how to put on the camera strap that comes with your camera.
You’ll see that in the video, we’re using the one that comes bundled with a Fujifilm X-T2, but the process is the same for any Canon camera strap, Nikon camera strap, or anything else that comes free when you buy a camera.
Don’t immediately assume that you need to invest in some custom camera strap – the one that comes when you purchase a camera is usually adequate – it’s just a shame that the brand (and sometimes the model) of the camera is emblazoned over it in big white letters… perfect to attract unwanted attention!
Despite this, you’ll see plenty of pros still rocking the original strap that came with their camera… and if it’s good enough for them, I’m sure it’d do for you too. Maybe just consider using a black marker to hide the lettering a bit ;-)
What is the Best Length for a Camera Strap?
If you’re wondering how long your straps should be or how to choose a strap length, the answer is that it depends on your personal preference, shooting style, height and body shape.
For most people, a strap that is around 25-30 inches (63-76 cm) long should be sufficient. This length allows you to wear the camera comfortably around your neck or shoulder and easily bring the camera up to your eye to take a photo.
However, if you’re taller or have a larger build, you may prefer a longer strap to accommodate your body size. Conversely, if you’re shorter or have a smaller build, you may prefer a shorter camera strap.
It’s also worth noting that some camera straps, like the Peak Design Slide, are adjustable, allowing you to customize the length to your liking, making it a great option.
Ultimately, the best length for your camera strap is one that allows you to comfortably and securely carry your camera while shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best camera strap?
Our top pick for the best camera strap would be the Peak Design Slide. While there are a lot of great options out there, this one can carry an impressive amount of weight, is smooth and comfortable and quick to adjust.
Do professional photographers use camera straps?
Plenty of professional photographers use camera straps, though which type they use depends on their personal preference and their needs. For example, a lot of wedding photographers use a dual-strap system like the Holdfast Gear MoneyMaker in order to easily switch between two camera bodies. In contrast, many travel photographers carrying lighter gear prefer a wrist strap like the Peak Design Cuff.
Which camera strap is best for DSLR?
The Peak Design Slide is a great option if you’re looking for a camera strap for DSLR due to its ability to comfortably take a lot of weight (up to 200lbs /90kgs). Even with a heavy lens on your DSLR body, you can still rely on it to support your gear.
What are camera straps made of?
Most camera straps are made from nylon or leather, though occasionally you also find them made from other fabrics like neoprene (for example, the TrueSHOT Camera Strap), which makes for a comfortable and soft alternative.
Final Words
Me testing out the Holdfast Swagg dual camera strap in the Sydney heat.
It’s funny – camera straps can actually make photography more enjoyable. Our gear might be getting lighter and lighter each year, but they need to find an efficient way to carry it on our bodies.
From previous experience, I’d recommend that you don’t try and limit yourself to just one single camera strap for all uses.
I’m not advocating buying camera gear for the sake of it, but I do believe you can efficiently use multiple camera straps in different situations for various cameras.
Fortunately, most camera straps are relatively inexpensive when compared to other camera gear, which will allow you to own more than one.
Even after 10+ years of photography, I still haven’t settled on one single type of strap for my cameras. I much prefer swapping and changing depending on my mood, and I encourage you to do the same too.
I hope you found this review useful. I’ll be updating it as the year progresses when I come across other great products that I think you should know about.
What do you find is the best camera strap for your photography? Leave us a comment below with your recommendations!
High-quality, affordable camera strap that’s versatile, comfortable and lightning quick to adjust.
Mark Condon is a British wedding photographer and editor of Shotkit. When he’s not taking photos or reviewing the latest camera gear and software, Mark can be found cycling around the northern rivers.
