Every piece of gear matters when preparing for a travel photography adventure, including the often-overlooked camera strap. As someone who picked up a Canon 6D a few weeks ago, I quickly realized how inadequate the standard camera strap that comes with it is. If you’ve ever used the default straps that come with DSLRs, whether it’s Canon, Nikon, or Sony, you likely share this sentiment. Despite paying a hefty sum for a professional camera, the provided straps are often uncomfortable and impractical.
The good news is, that you don’t have to settle for the factory-provided straps. There are plenty of third-party options designed with comfort and usability in mind. I recently had the chance to test out the Indigo Marble camera strap, which aims to address the common issues found in standard camera straps. Here’s a detailed look into why regular straps fall short, what to look for in a travel-friendly camera strap, and my thoughts on some top alternatives, including the Indigo Marble strap.
The Problem with Standard Camera Straps
Narrow Design
The most common issue with standard camera straps is their narrow design. Professional cameras are heavy, and a thin strap concentrates that weight on a small area of your shoulder. After a while, this can lead to significant discomfort and even long-term back problems. A wider strap can distribute the weight more evenly, reducing the strain on your shoulder.
Inappropriate Material
The material used in most standard straps is another major concern. These straps can become uncomfortable in hot conditions and often made from phony leather or other synthetic materials. They tend to stick to your clothes, and when you move your camera, your clothing moves with it. This not only causes discomfort but can also lead to sweat patches and oddly bunched-up clothing, making for an unpleasant shooting experience.
Attachment Issues
Standard DSLR straps typically attach to the camera at the top, on either side of the body. While this may seem convenient, it causes several issues. The straps can get in the way while shooting, and if you’re using a tripod, they can whip around in the wind, potentially affecting image sharpness. Ideally, a camera strap should attach to the bottom or at least in a way that keeps it out of your shooting area.
What to Look for in a Travel Camera Strap
Given the drawbacks of standard camera straps, it’s crucial to know what to look for when choosing an alternative, especially for travel photography.
Wide Strap
As mentioned earlier, a wider strap is essential. It distributes the camera’s weight across a larger area of your shoulder, making the camera feel lighter and reducing the risk of discomfort over long periods.
Comfortable Material
The material of the strap should be soft and cushioned. A spongy material that doesn’t dig into your shoulder will provide much-needed comfort during long shoots. Additionally, the material should allow for some breathability, preventing excessive sweating. Leather, though popular for its aesthetic appeal, often fails in this regard.
Breathability
When you’re shooting in warm climates or over extended periods, a breathable strap is a game-changer. Breathable materials prevent excessive sweat buildup and help maintain comfort, making it easier to keep shooting without needing frequent breaks.
Alternative Attachment Points
Straps that attach to the bottom of the camera or use a more innovative attachment method can help keep the straps out of the way while shooting. This not only prevents the straps from interfering with your shot but also allows for a more comfortable carrying position.
Indigo Marble Camera Strap: A Quick Review
The Indigo Marble camera strap addresses many of the issues found in standard straps, making it a strong contender for the best camera strap for travel photography.
Comfort and Design
The strap is wide and soft, which significantly improves comfort. The weight distribution is excellent, making it feel like your camera is much lighter than it actually is. This feature alone makes the strap worth considering for travel photographers who often carry their cameras for long periods.
Innovative Attachment
The strap attaches to the camera using a bottom plate that locks into the tripod mount. This method not only keeps the straps out of the way while shooting but also positions the camera in a way that’s easy to access. When moving the camera from your hip to your eye, the strap doesn’t shift on your shoulder; instead, the camera smoothly glides along the strap, preventing any clothing from bunching up.
Tripod Compatibility
Initially, I was concerned that the bottom attachment would complicate tripod use. However, I found that the tripod quick-release can attach directly to the strap mount, allowing for easy transitions between handheld shooting and tripod use. This feature is particularly useful for travel photographers who often switch between these modes.
Wind Resistance
Another benefit of the bottom attachment is that it prevents the straps from whipping around in the wind when the camera is mounted on a tripod. This stability is crucial for long exposure shots, ensuring that wind doesn’t interfere with your photography.
Other Camera Strap Options
While the Indigo Marble strap is impressive, it’s not the only option available. Over the years, I’ve come across a couple of other camera straps that are worth mentioning.
Peak Design Rapid Strap
The Peak Design Rapid Strap is another excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate the smooth glide feature found in the Indigo Marble strap. This strap allows the camera to slide along the strap rather than dragging it, which minimizes clothing twists and maximizes shooting comfort. It also features quick-release clips, allowing for easy removal of the strap when needed.
No Strap / Camera Clip
For those who prefer to avoid straps altogether, a camera clip is a viable alternative. Peak Design offers a clip that attaches to the shoulder strap of your camera bag, providing hands-free carrying without the hassle of a strap. This clip allows for quick camera access and can be a great option for those who prioritize freedom of movement.
Best Camera Strap for Travel | Conclusion
Choosing the best camera strap for travel photography is essential for comfort and efficiency during shoots. While standard camera straps often fall short, there are plenty of third-party options that cater specifically to the needs of travel photographers. The Indigo Marble camera strap, with its wide, soft design and innovative attachment method, is a standout option. However, other straps like the Peak Design Rapid Strap or even a no-strap solution like a camera clip are worth considering based on your preferences and shooting style.
In the end, the best camera strap is one that makes your gear feel lighter, stays out of your way, and allows you to focus on capturing the perfect shot. With the right strap, your travel photography experience can be significantly enhanced, making those long days of shooting a lot more enjoyable.
