Written by Beckie of beckiegkengle.com
For me, camera straps are an important part of photography. I need something comfortable, but also something functional! And if it’s a cute, fun pattern, then it’s even better! (thanks to my sister for letting me borrow her old Nikon N80 as a prop)
I have not used my standard issue Nikon strap in about 4 years. My first camera strap purchase was a super cute strap from My Funky Camera. Not only do they come in so many design options, they are lined with a black minky-type fabric, making them super soft to wear around your neck!
While I was still using my first DSLR (a Nikon D60) it was a perfect fit, because this particular camera body is pretty light. After I upgraded to my D90, it was a little less comfortable due to the weight difference in these two bodies.
When I upgraded to the D300s I had to find a different strap. It was so much weight around my neck that I was beginning to have some neck and shoulder pain after doing a shoot and especially after shooting a wedding. So I went on the hunt for something that would take that pressure off of my neck.
I attended a local workshop last summer, and one of the attendees was using a BlackRapid RS4. This strap looked so comfortable! It is a cross body strap, with an extremely padded shoulder strap that attaches to your camera via the tripod connection on the bottom! Before I could buy one, my awesome friend, Kelly, bought one for me (thanks, again, Kel!)!
When I use it with my D700 (which is even heavier than my D300s was), I almost can’t even tell I am wearing my camera! There is absolutely no pressure on my neck and shoulders! And while it isn’t all cute and girlie, I must say that comfort wins this time! What kind of camera strap do you use?
I would like to thank my new friend Winnie, of Winnie Bruce Photography, for being my super-awesome model!
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The Black Rapid Strap is something I love, we’re linking up to I’m Lovin’ It at Tidymom this week. Pop over and see all the other recipes, products and more that other people love too!
About Beckie
Thanks for the review! I’ve been wondering about these straps.
Pam, it is so comfortable!!
Great review Bec! And you’re so very welcome for the strap! What are friends for!
Thanks, Kel! And friends are awesome! 😉
My husband just got a Black Rapid and loves it. We are getting ready to order one for me as well! Comfort trumps cute if you’re going to wear your camera a lot 🙂
Try the Black Rapid for women. RS-W1 I think. I love mine. 🙂
I like this idea, but I’m already carrying a camera bag on my shoulder during photo shoots. Wouldn’t this just get in the way?
I use a Shootsac as well when I’m shooting, and I put my Shootsac on first over one shoulder (crossbody), and then I wear my BlackRapid over the other shoulder (also crossbody). Since I put it on last, my Shootsac strap doesn’t interfere with it!
I have the Black Rapid for women and love it! I added some cute factor with a bit of white fabric paint and a stencil, so you can have comfort and cute!
That’s a great idea, Rosy! Thanks!