For the last several years, there has been an explosion of lens strap designs that try to be more than something to hang a camera from. Instead, these specialty sling straps, dual straps and multi-purpose straps offer a âhigh techâ alternative to the traditional strap that might have come with a new camera.
Though I donât deny the advantages of such systems, I have a hard time with a camera strap that requires a learning curve. Photography can be complicated enough and when you add a camera strap that demands its own user’s manual, I really wonder if something as simple as a strap has suffered from over engineering.
Tech Specs
Taken from the Lance Camera Strap Quick Connect listing page.
Strap lengths: 36in, 48in, 60in, custom
Strap measurement: End-to-end of metal quick connects
Cord diameter: 8mm
Cord material: Premium polyester
Cord colors: Black, burgundy, red, beige, dark blue, olive green, gray
Thread colors: Black, burgundy, red, beige, dark blue, olive green, gray
Leather colors: Black
Connector type: Metal quick connects
Ergonomics
The Lance Camera Strap hearkens back to a simpler design, which builds on the advantages of state-of-the-art design, but doesnât demand a new way of working and handling a camera in order to make it an effective and valuable accessory.
I received a 48-inch non-adjustable strap, which is made from genuine cowhide leather with slightly burnished edges. Though available in a variety of lengths, I found that the 48-inch model was suited for me, as I often prefer the camera to hang at my waist for quick access.
Available in a variety of different colors including olive green, burgundy, red, beige, dark blue, black, and gray, the ends of the strap terminate either with a Classic Non Adjustable end or a Classic Quick Connect version, familiar to those of who used film DSLRs in the 70s and earlier. The latter is the model which I received for review.
Though thinner than the typical strap that comes boxed with a camera, the braided design showcases a density and a strength that feels secure and reliable. When using it with a mirrorless camera, the strap felt comfortable whether hanging from my neck or over my shoulder, the latter which is my personal preference. For this review, I used it with the Samsung NX300Â (Adorama) (B&HPhoto) and Olympus OMD-EM-5Â (Adorama) (B&HPhoto).
If I had any trepidation about the quick release connection it was due to the brassing that such connecters had traditionally caused on metal bodies. The companyâs remedy for this is rubber that covers much of the Quick Connect mechanism as well the included O-Ring strap bumpers, which create enough separation in the camera to reduce such an issue.
In Use
With moderately sized mirrorless cameras, I was surprised at how comfortable the camera strap felt around the neck. Even when working in the heat, it didnât cause any of the chaffing and irritation of traditional photo straps. When used over the shoulder, it held in place fairly well. Â Though with some slick jacket, it might slip off the shoulder a little to easily. However, this wasnât something I experienced with any of the outerwear that I wore while using the strap.
My favorite aspect of the strap was my ability to easily wrap its length around my wrist, an approach that I really favor for my street photography. The feel was incredibly comfortable and secure and was a great alternative to the hand-straps that are often touted by others.
I was surprised by how many people asked me about the strap, while I was using it. There is no doubt that the stylish look distinguishes it from the many alternatives out there.
Conclusions
If you are looking for an alternative to the logo-ladened camera strap, the Lance Camera Strap offers a stylish and highly functional alternative. Itâs simple, itâs functional and it looks damn good. Most importantly, it’s a strap that doesn’t stand in the way of using the camera. I have given up one some of these “high tech” straps, because I’ve missed a shot trying to remember the “right” way to swing the camera to my eye to capture shot. Sometimes, simpler is much better.
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