Whether you’re an amateur photographer, a social media influencer, or a photojournalist, there’s one camera accessory you need. That, my friend, is the high quality leather camera strap.
These durable slings suspend your precious picture-taking tools. What’s more, they prepare you for action-packed photoshoots and candid captures. While a leather strap may not earn you a Guggenheim Fellowship, it will help you look the part. There’s no telling what images will make it into your photo portfolio with your camera close by.
b.still Leather Camera Neck Strap – Editor’s Choice
Protect your neck and camera with the b.still’s leather camera strap. This soft Italian leather band will never feel like a pain in the neck. This strapping leather accessory features a wide, padded neck panel and thin, camel-colored straps. The entire article is 45 inches long. However, it can be easily adjusted.
The sling is compatible with most cameras, including Pentax, Canon, and Olympus DSLRs. The small round lug attachments are easy to secure. What’s more, they provide a guaranteed connection every time. If you’re looking for comfort, security, and style, you can get it with the b. still camera sling.
| Pros | Cons |
| 40 to 45 inches long | No secure camera attachment |
| Adjustable | – |
| Genuine Italian leather | – |
| Universal fit | – |
TUYUNG Brown Leather Camera Strap- Most Secure Attachments
If your camera is your life, then you’re going to want a sling that cannot possibly let you down. The TUYUNG leather camera strap is a soft yet durable strap made from premium cow’s leather. According to the manufacturer, this strap can hold over 11 pounds of film, mirrorless, or DSLR camera.
The leather camera straps are engineered to embrace most camera loops and eyelets. As such, you can treat this strap like a universal piece.
The camera strap boasts a pair of metal rings with soft backing for a more secure and forgiving camera connection. Alternatively, the ends of the metal straps can be looped around your camera’s mounting rings. While the installation process takes a few minutes, it will ensure that your camera isn’t going anywhere.
| Pros | Cons |
| High-quality leather | Not all leather |
| Can hold up to 11 pounds | – |
| Universal fit | – |
| Metal ring attachments | – |
| Doubles as a sling | – |
b.still Leather Camera Strap with Nylon Webbing- Best Release Option
Thank the camera gods for this one! This b. still product is a wide leather strap with slip-resistant nylon webbing. You’ll pay a little extra for this improvement. Trust us; it’s worth every penny. Natural leather is soft and slippery. While it looks great, it doesn’t always stay where you want it.
The b. still sling will hold up your film and DSLR cameras with ease. The strap’s universal connection points allow you to switch back and forth between different cameras.
The b. still camera strap has a loopy attachment that’s free from clips and pins. This enables users to release their camera without unhinging any accessories. It also boasts a sliding neck pad. The pad moves effortlessly along he nylon webbing, ensuring that your neck is comfortable in all position. Amazing, right?
| Pros | Cons |
| Sliding leather neck pad | Inconsistent quality |
| Nylon webbing | – |
| Clip-free connections | – |
| Universal fit | – |
| 40 to 46.5 inches long | – |
| Soft | – |
TETHER’s Brown Leather Camera Strap for DSLR or SLR Cameras- Best Leather Camera Strap for DSLR or SLR Cameras
TETHER’s brown leather camera strap is tailor-made for digital cameras. Naturally, this strap offers over-the-top comfort. The piece is made from genuine leather with an all-natural suede backing. The soft material can be draped over your neck or wrist.
You don’t have to worry about dripping dye or surface blemishes. This hearty all-weather strap is fit for the great outdoors. It is fade-free and waterproof.
This strong leather camera strap can be clipped or tied to a camera of your choice. The secure attachments won’t shred or come untied. You can even adjust the strap, adding as much as 10 inches of extra length on each side.
| Pros | Cons |
| All-natural leather | – |
| Suede backing | – |
| Clipped or tied | – |
| 10 inches of adjustable length on each side | – |
Cannix Genuine Leather Camera Strap- Most Timeless Stylish Camera Strap
This Cammix leather camera strap is made from premium handcrafted leather. The strap is thin with a soft sliding panel behind the neck. The strap I just over 35 inches long. What’s more, it can be adjusted. It boasts a vintage profile with modern amenities.
This strap is compatible with all DSLR and mirrorless cameras. The attachment points are strong and wear-resistant. If your camera is your lifeblood, invest in this strappy insurance accessory.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | – |
| Vintage look | – |
| Long and adjustable | – |
| Loop attachments | – |
| Genuine leather | – |
Best Leather Camera Straps – Buyer’s Guide
A most popular size is the standard 53. This can be used as a regular neck strap, or it can also be used as a cross body shoulder strap or a shoulder strap hanging off one shoulder.
The 30 mil wide camera straps are popular now too. They’re designed for mirrorless cameras, and they do work for lighter DSLRs. They come in long as well, but most people are generally pretty good with the regular length.
Besides, you can choose wrist straps which are the same width as the slim 30 but just a nice small loop which is adjustable so you can run it just like a wrist strap if you don’t like running a neck or a shoulder strap.
If you’re picking leather camera strap as a gift for somebody, the most important thing to figure out will be what width they need. So if they’re using a lighter camera, a smaller mirrorless camera like a Fuji, Sony or Panasonic, you’ll want to run the 30 mil wide straps and depending on how tall they are, most people will probably be happy with this length.
Some people will want the longer strap. If you’re using heavier cameras, DSLRs or right through up to big and heavy, you’d be looking at either of the 53 mil wide straps, either the long if you’re a taller person or the regular.
Most of the camera straps are made with an upholstery style leather, which is a little bit softer to the brown. A little bit of a dimpled finish, nice and smooth slips well on your clothes, so the black, the white are all really soft upholstery leathers.
Video Tutorial: Making a Leather Camera Strap
How to Choose the Perfect Leather Camera Strap
Most photographers want two things out of their leather camera strap. They want it to excel at holding their camera and look great while doing it.
Material
Generally speaking, leather is a durable, wear-resistant material that will naturally conform to the contours of your neck or wrist. We advise you to choose a camera strap made of genuine leather rather than a synthetic blend. The material should be soft and flexible. Full and top-grain leathers are the highest-quality varieties. Meanwhile, suede is a subtle leather product that makes an excellent backing Commit to buying the most superior leather. We promise it will be better for your long-term budget.
Length
Most leather camera straps offer adjustable lengths that range between 25 and 40 inches. Of course, one photographer’s ideal camera strap length is different from another’s. Most people prefer the option to adjust their camera straps. Photographer Harry Benz recommends tying a non-stretchy sting to your camera to find your ideal strap length. Position your camera at a variety of angles to ensure that this length is right. Then, use the string as a measuring tape to guide your next purchase.
Weight limit
Cameras aren’t particularly heavy. However, bulky lenses and accessories can pack on the pounds. Find a camera strap that holds anywhere from 3 to 6 pounds. A high-quality animal hide can hold an ample amount of weight. However, some of the most common camera strap complaints regard rips caused by strain.
Position
Do you prefer to drape your leather camera strap around your neck or sling it across your body? Camera straps can be worn in multiple positions, including around the wrist and waist. Find a camera strap that is engineered for comfort and style. What’s more, opt for a strap that provides ergonomic improvements. For example, if you’re after a neck strap, make sure it boasts extra padding and a sliding neck panel.
Adjustablity
We highly recommend opting for an adjustable leather camera strap. While one-panel leather neck straps have an irresistible vintage appeal, they aren’t all that functional. Adjustable straps can be worn in a variety of positions. What’s more, they do an excellent job of holding up bulky lenses and camera accessories.
Connection
Always ensure that a strap is compatible with your camera. Connectors vary between models. IIf your camera has lugs, you will need a strap with similarly sized cutouts. Many straps boast loops or ties that can be adhered to a camera’s connectors. Ensure that the connectors are capable of dangling your camera in midair.
Leather Camera Straps FAQ
Do professional photographers wear leather camera straps?
Professional photographers have to transport a lot of equipment, sometimes hanging from their necks. To prevent cramps they choose leather camera straps for additional neck relief and support.
A strap may serve in some situations but will not do for the all-time use. Heavy leather straps can limit the movements and a photographer needs to reach the camera quickly. One of the best reasons to buy a leather strap is the support of the heavy and expensive DSLR camera setup. It makes sense to invest in leather straps if you are a wedding photographer. Only top-notch leather straps can take up to 200 pounds – it is very handy if you need to transport heave lenses.
When buying high quality leather camera strap make sure it is made of full-grain or top-grain leather. Check the weight ratings to prevent the accidental breakage of your camera setup.
Consider using the Sun Sniper strap that was created by the photographer for photographers. This strap allows the camera to glide down and up. The viewfinder alignment is good for making quick and precise shots.
Which leather camera strap is best for a DSLR?
Actually, the major reason to buy an additional leather camera strap is a DSLR setup. Surely, all mid-price or expensive mirrorless and DSLR cameras come with neck and shoulder straps. However, most of them are cheap and made of nylon. So for the heavy-duty use, you may need to invest in a leather strap.
It is hard to say what is the best leather camera strap for a DSLR. Because every photographer needs a strap for different reasons. But there are a few things you may want to have:
- Comfortable and adjustable leather strap;
- Taking up to 200 pounds of heavy equipment;
- D-rings for secure protection;
- Shoulder pads (especially if the strap is thin – less than 1 inch);
- Non-slip cover on both sides;
- Breast support for the even-weight distribution;
- Consider using wide straps – they are more comfortable;
Your major task is to have quick access to your camera without feeling its weight on your body. For instance, a cross-body strap (like Blackrapid) is good for placing the camera upside down against the waist.
Another great choice is a stabilizing strap that can secure the strap under the photographer’s left shoulder. Such leather straps prevent the attached camera belt from tangling and twisting.
Are leather camera straps comfortable?
The majority of default straps (that come with a camera) are made of nylon or neoprene. They are soft and cheap. But they are not quite durable or capable to cope with heavy DSLR camera setups. That is when leather camera straps can become handy. They are also adjustable and lightweight but at the same time durable.
If you seek comfort, look for a camera strap with paddings to reduce neck or shoulder fatigue. Make sure to pair the strap with one of the leather camera bags.
Consider buying one of low-profile premium leather camera straps because, usually, they have nice padding for your neck. To attach such belts you will need to use rings or clasps. The optimal size of a strap is around 29 inches. But most professional photographers choose adjustable straps up to 46 inches for additional comfort on different occasions.
Are camera straps universal?
Yes and no, at the same time. When the leather camera straps are described, usually shoulder or neck straps are meant. But to protect your mirrorless or DSLR cameras, you may choose among a few types of straps:
- A neck strap is good only for the lightweight gear;
- Shoulder/cross-body strap. If the camera strap is hanging off a shoulder, it is the fastest way to reach the gear when you need it. Usually, this strap type is good for DSLR setups;
- Wrist straps are good for stabilizing your camera if you prefer to hold it in your hands;
- Dual camera straps are good for photographers who need to carry 2 camera bodies when you should use different focal lengths.
- Sling and waist straps are good if you have problems with your neck or shoulders. But they are not quite great to carry the heavy gear;
- Holsters are a great choice if you want to have free hands. They help to get the weight off the shoulders;
If you don’t like any camera strap, check the camera clips. These clips can be attached to your backpack, shoulder bag, belt, etc. And then the camera is attached to the clip.
What is a good camera strap length?
Professional photographers, as well as camera strap manufacturers, recommend investing in the strap the length of 27 – 29 inches. It will be even better if the strap is adjustable on the sides. Most professional photographers prefer the length of 46 inches if the strap hangs from the neck.
How to adjust a camera strap?
You have to be extremely careful when adjusting a camera strap to prevent your DSLR setup from falling. For instance, to adjust a camera strap on any Samsung camera, you should do such steps:
- The top and bottom of a leather camera strap’s buckle should be facing outward.
- Moving toward the camera, you should thread a loose end of the strap through the metal loop or ring of your camera;
- Thread the loose end through a small fastener attached to the camera strap:
- The upper section of the strap must be pushed through the top of the buckle;
- The loose end must be threaded through the top inside end of the buckle;
- Back down through the bottom outside the opening of the camera’s buckle;
- Do the same steps with the other end of the strap.
Only after all these steps, the camera strap can be considered safe and secure.
How to take a camera strap off?
In most cases, to take a camera strap off you should detach it from the side clips. Most contemporary cameras have clips/rings for attaching a leather strap. It is enough to remove plastic covers and remove the rings if you don’t have plans to attach the strap in the near future.
In some rare cases, you may need a screw and a tiny screwdriver (try not to scratch the camera in the process) to attach or detach the camera strap on both sides of the camera.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed our rundown of the best leather camera straps. Any of the aforementioned slings can be trusted with your favorite camera. On top of that, all of them look fabulous and can stand the tests of time. If you want a timeless sling that will provide you with lengthy protection, opt for the b.still Leather Camera Neck Strap. If you want to save a few bucks without giving up durability, then go for the TETHER’s Brown Leather Camera Strap. Happy shopping!
Steve you did it again! I’ve been following your blog for a while and love the content that you post. It really is a ton of great selections. I own a camera but have never had a strap. I think it’s time to purchase one of these.
Hello, Sean! Thanks for your comment.
Hi
Do you know of an adjustable leather strap that goes up to 57 inches / 145 cm ? I’m very tall (6’3″ / 190 cm) and want to be able to wear it around the neck or across my chest.
Thanks,
Frank
Hello, Frank! I would recommend to buy this TARION Strap. I think, this will do.
Rule #1 for touring – ditch the poser strap you get with your camera – it attracts attention – I have 20 year old Op tech straps on my cameras , which have both lost their logos long ago (and yes , I do cover over the name badge on my cameras , just in case).
Hello, Peter! Thanks for your comment.
I’m going to go with the b.still leather camera strap because I know how good it is. I haven’t tested the others but for me, b.still would probably be better. The quality is very high and this is an universal sling which works for pretty much anything.