As photographers, we all like to do things our own way. This is especially true when it comes to holding our cameras. It is actually part of our style. It is nice to have peace of mind and know that an investment will not fall to the ground. The B-Grip EVO camera belt, which I have been testing for a while, is a unique way to carry a camera. Introduced to me as an alternative to a neck strap, I put it through its paces. It was actually challenging at times. Is it for everyone though? Let’s see.
Gear Used
Nikon D90, 50mm 1.8 E, SB600 Flash
Product Details
Tech specs taken from B&H
– rubber baseplate stopper to secure camera to base plate
-reinforced fiberglass loaded techno-polymer for lightweight and ultra-solid feel
– safety thumb lock prevents any accidental camera release
– Product Dimensions: 11 x 4 x 2 inches ; 12.8 ounces
– EVO will accommodate most configurations including flash, zoom lens, and a battery grip. EVO supports a weight up to 17.64 lbs.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Built solidly with a plastic resin compound, which has fiber and glass microspheres, the B-Grip EVO camera belt does not feel weak at all.
The quick release plate is very nice. The B-Grip EVO camera belt has an extension that allows the camera to sit safely on a surface.
This flip out platform keeps the camera from falling over. It has the basic universal screw. The plate is compatible with tripod heads like the Manfrotto 234RC and RC2.
The base has a safety connector, attachment ring, as well as spots for your belt loop. It also has a locking lever for the quick release plate.
There are extra slots for additional straps, however I did not use them.
Here is an issue though. If you are overweight, like me, the belt is not for you. I did lose some weight and the belt just fits now. You can buy a larger military style belt and it will work with the B-Grip. Another thing is with a body type like mine, if the belt does fit with the camera on, it is not comfortable. The B-Grip is not intended for larger people, and it can be slightly difficult to access with a big midsection. However, there is optional backpack support available. Again, its uses will probably depend on your body type.
Standard Uses
How it all works is you unlock and rotate the lever on the base, remove the plate, screw in the camera, put it back on your hip, and lock it in. When walking with this, I always felt like I was going to hit my camera on something because it was on my hip. Due to my size, I think a little differently. I honestly prefer to be able to move my camera at will. It is why I keep my camera on a Black Rapid Strap. At first, I thought I would not be able to use the B-Grip. I had to get creative with it in the end. The B-Grip EVO Camera Belt Grip was cumbersome to use for me.
Alternate Uses
The B-grip does not have to be limited to just having a camera. With some imagination, it is not hard to come up with other uses for the B-Grip. It all depends on your style of photography. If you have a wireless trigger or a flash sync cable, there are a few techniques. You can use it to give you a different angle on your light. You can mount the flash on the B-Grip and put it on your hip with a Gary Fong Omni sphere giving your light a low angle. With the belt, you can turn a small tree into a light stand or use it for camera stabilization. It is all up to your imagination in the end.
In the end
The B-Grip EVO camera belt is not for me. Most photographers, especially those into sports and hiking, may find use for the B-Grip EVO camera belt. It is a solid alternative to camera straps. It also has alternative uses that are worth thinking about. If you like it, you will find a lot of ways to make it work for your photography.
I would never ever recommend the B-Grip EVO Camera Belt Grip. I hated doing this review. Over all it was uncomfortable. This review also left a hole in my pocket. I dropped my Nikon D90 Nikon 50mm 1.8 E in this review. The camera seems OK so far, but the lens is no longer usable. I thought my gear was locked in. I was wrong and I paid a high price. I would say get this product at your own risk and make sure you have a wrist strap when using it. I did have one, but I made a mistake .
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