BlackRapid Camera Straps

I’m still on the hunt for the ideal camera bag, but in the meantime, while browsing the bag section in B&H in New York I came across a camera strap system that makes sense.  Black Rapid.  It made me think of  the infamous Blackwater  contractor at first, and then, when I noticed it was a sling I thought of Black Diamond climbing gear.

So much for brand association, but my initial impressions where reinforced because the straps are actually chest harnesses that allow you to keep the camera at your side as if it were a gun in a holster.  A very good and well thought-out system actually.

The camera is kept secure through a locking pin that screws into the tripod screwmount of the camera.  Reaching the camera is easy, and the harness strap extends far enough to permit total mobility, as if the camera were on a leash.

The set-up keeps your hands free, but the camera remains securely attached to you.  More than risk of falling, I like the idea of adding a layer of dissuasion from theft.  Furthermore, the weight is well distributed, and you can even have one camera at each side.  It even has convenient pockets on the strap for cel phones, memory cards, etc. this helps avoid carrying a bag and looking even more like a target for thieves.  In colder months  you can wear a long jacket over the straps, and this helps hide your equipment even more.  (This works well for my slim Leicas but with my fatter Nikons I do look a little heavy in the hips!)  This set-up still allows you to reach the camera from under your jacket when needed without too much fuss.

Of course this works best in winter months…Still looking for a replacement to my black plastic grocery bag when I’m under the the sun.