When you’re serious about photography, you probably have a top-of-the-line camera to take the best photos possible. A high-tech, feature-packed camera can be pretty heavy, though, so you can definitely benefit from a sturdy camera shoulder strap that makes carrying it more manageable.
That’s because a shoulder strap allows you to carry your camera with the weight supported across your neck and shoulders. It also leaves your hands free and lets you grab your camera quickly when a photo opportunity presents itself.
To find the best camera shoulder strap for your needs, you’ll want to know exactly what to look for and the must-have features you shouldn’t skip. The Altura is a favorite because it features a lightweight design and screw plate for secure attachment.
What to know before you buy a camera shoulder strap
Strap width
A camera shoulder strap’s width plays a key role in how comfortable it is to use. A narrow strap is more likely to dig into your shoulder than a wide strap is. A wider strap distributes the camera’s weight more evenly too.
For the most comfortable strap, stick to those that are at least 1.5 inches wide. A 2-inch strap is usually even more comfortable.
Strap material
High-end camera shoulder straps are typically made of leather. Leather straps are flexible, so they move easily when you reach for your camera. More affordable straps may be made of cotton or nylon. They’re not as durable as leather straps, but they can hold up well for casual photographers.
Adjustable strap length
The best camera shoulder straps are adjustable, so they can work well no matter your height. An adjustable strap also lets you choose where you carry the camera, such as at your chest, waist or hip. That makes it much easier to find a comfortable position for carrying your camera.
You can even find some camera straps that are adjustable enough that you can wear them as a neck or shoulder strap.
Camera shoulder strap alternatives
While camera shoulder straps can work well for many cameras and photographers, they’re not the only option to make carrying your equipment easier.
Hand strap: This works well for lighter cameras. It connects to the camera at the tripod mount and the eyelet. It has a much closer fit than a shoulder strap, so you can only fit a hand between the camera and the strap. You can get a better grip on the camera when shooting a photo with a hand strap, but it can’t really support much weight, making it a poor option for a large DSLR.
Harness: This style features several straps to support the camera’s weight. It slips over the shoulder and has two clips to connect to the eyelets on the camera. It also features a chest strap to secure the camera. It works extremely well for heavy cameras with a large lens. You can have trouble lifting the camera for quick, spontaneous photos, though.
Neck strap: Connects to the camera’s eyelets and covers the back of your neck to support the camera. The camera usually hangs down to the middle of the torso from the strap. A neck strap doesn’t provide much support for the camera, though, so it’s not the best option for heavy cameras.
Wrist strap: A loop that fits easily around your wrist, attaching to one of the camera’s eyelets. It provides easy access to the camera, but it can’t support much weight at all, so they really only work for small cameras.
Camera shoulder strap features
Padding
If you carry your camera for long periods, it helps to choose a padded strap. Most padded leather straps feature wool felt or fleece padding, while nylon straps generally use foam padding to provide cushioning for your neck and shoulder.
Colors
Many camera shoulder straps are black, but you can also find leather straps in a range of brown shades. On the other hand, nylon and cotton fabric straps are available in a wide array of colors, so you can usually find one in any color you prefer.
Buckles
A camera shoulder strap usually attaches to your camera with buckles or clasps, so they should be sturdy and durable enough to protect your camera. Look for buckles or clasps that are made of high-quality plastic or metal.
Some straps feature a basic clip design for the buckles, but you can find some with a quick-release system that lets you quickly and easily remove the camera from the strap to shoot photos.
Camera shoulder strap cost
You’ll usually pay between $5 and $100 for a camera shoulder strap. Narrow fabric strips are the most affordable, costing between $5 and $12. Midrange straps, which are sometimes made of leather, generally range from $12 to $25, while high-end, padded fabric straps and leather straps can cost as much as $25 to $100.
Camera shoulder strap FAQ
Why should I use a shoulder camera strap?
A. A camera shoulder strap makes carrying your camera more comfortable because it distributes its weight evenly across the back of your neck and shoulders. It also allows you to quickly grab your camera when a spontaneous photo op arises.
Does my camera shoulder strap have to be the same brand as my camera?
A. If you opt for a strap that’s the same brand as your camera, you never have to worry about it fitting your particular model. However, if you choose a universal-fit shoulder strap, it should work with most camera models. Keep in mind that you’ll usually pay more for a brand-matching strap.
Which camera shoulder strap should I get?
Best of the best camera shoulder strap
Altura Photo Rapid Fire Camera Strap: available at Amazon
Our take: This comfortable, basic camera strap is an excellent option for lightweight point-and-shoot cameras.
What we like: Features a lightweight design that’s comfortable to wear. Includes a screw plate for a more secure attachment to your camera. Has a zippered area to hold memory cards.
What we dislike: Its screw plate can become loose over time if used with a larger camera.
Best bang for your buck camera shoulder strap
TARION Camera Shoulder Strap: available at Amazon
Our take: An affordable camera strap that’s still highly durable, considering its price.
What we like: Works with nearly all DSLR camera brands. Adjusts from 28 to 54 inches. Made of leather and cotton for a lightweight, comfortable strap.
What we dislike: The cotton section easily absorbs moisture like sweat.
Honorable mention camera shoulder strap
Waka Quick-Release Neck and Shoulder Camera Strap: available at Amazon
Our take: This camera has an easily adjustable strap and universal design, making it an excellent value for the money.
What we like: Affordable yet sturdy enough to support a heavy DSLR camera. The universal design works with most cameras.
What we dislike: Some reports of discomfort as the strap is narrower than most and may dig into neck.
Jennifer Blair is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
