Video:Camera: Neck Strap Overview

Transcript:Camera: Neck Strap Overview

Hi I'm Chris Davis for About.com.  There are several camera accessories available to use in photography, however, like many of us you probably haven't given your camera strap a second thought.  Let's take a look at neck straps.

The Basic Camera Neck Strap

Your camera came equipped with a very simple and reliable strap.  It is constructed with nylon which makes it reasonably strong.  It has some slight padding for placing over your shoulder and around your neck and attaches to your camera by threading the nylon strap through the camera strap mounts.  Then using two plastic clips on either end of the strap you can secure the strap to the camera and make some minor adjustment to the overall length. 

All in all this strap does it's job.  It enables you to secure the camera in a fashion that will keep you from easily dropping it.  You can wear it over on shoulder, over your neck or over your neck and shoulder.  The disadvantage to this strap is that it isn't very comfortable for extended use.  The padding is minimal at most and the nylon edge can pull and wear on your neck which becomes painful.  It also has limited adjustment capability.

Camera Neck Strap Material

Another option has a similar design as far as how it attaches to the camera and how you wear it, however, one major and significant difference is the part of the strap that goes around your neck or shoulder is made of Neoprene.  Neoprene stretches just a little, so it eases the weight of the camera around your neck.  Especially during long periods of use.   It is also softer than nylon which makes it more comfortable.  It does have one draw back.   Neoprene holds in heat and against your skin may cause you to sweat more than usual. 

Sling Neck Straps Allow Easy Camera Access

A sling strap is a great way to go.  It is a little more expensive than a standard strap ranging in price from $40 to $80.  However, it is extremely versatile, comfortable and secure.  It is designed to be worn over your head and shoulder across your body.  The camera is attached to the strap at the tripod mount with a metal locking mechanism.  This makes it nearly impossible to drop.  The camera hangs at your hip and is ready to be pulled to position quickly.  On the strap you can place a stop which keeps the camera from sliding too far on the strap enabling you to customize how the strap will function for you.

No matter which strap you choose, just remember to use one.  You don't want to drop your camera investment.  To learn more check us out on the web at About.com.  Thanks for watching