Sling style camera straps are a good alternative for people who don’t like a camera strap hanging around their neck (they can also help you look slightly less touristy). In this tutorial learn how to make your own on the cheap. With a sling strap the camera hangs to your side with the strap over your shoulder, similar to a messenger bag. When you are ready to take a picture the camera is right at your side ready to aim and shoot (BANG!).
I found the BlackRapid strap and liked the idea of the design but at around $50 dollars it was hard to justify the expense when I already had several straps laying about staring at me longly waiting to be used.
Here is how I made a DIY version for $2.21 + tax by using some parts already in my camera bag (and probably yours too!)
Here’s what you need:
- Swivel-Eye Trigger-Snap Hook – $2.21 at good ol’ Home Depot
- A camera strap (I have the Tamrac N-25 but my stock Nikon strap works also.)
- A tripod quick release plate (sold with most Tripod ball heads). This one is from a Manfrotto 486 RC2.
Putting it all together is a piece of cake. Just connect the strap to the end of the snap hook then connect the snap hook to the loop on the quick release plate. Easy!
PROS:
- Cheep! (Assuming you already have a strap and a quick release tripod mount). Note: Replacement RC-2 plates sell for about ~$16.
- Customizable, works with pretty much any strap.
- Do not have to remove tripod mounting plate.
CONS:
- Does not look as nice as the BlackRapid straps.
Well there you have it. This particular snap hook works great because it’s small and closes securely. I have lugged my D300s around for years without incident.