Choosing a Camera Strap - Size Guide

26 Mar

Choosing the right length of camera strap can be tricky, especially if you’re new to the game! In this post I hope to guide you through this process and you can be confident in getting the right strap. This is mainly aimed at my fixed length straps but its also good to consider it for an adjustable strap.

Most popular lengths

70cm (27”) – great for keeping the camera close to your face, quick draw style!

85cm (33”) – The camera is still close to your face but you get a little more wiggle room.

120cm (120”) – Perfect for keeping the camera on your waistline. Its long enough to wear it on your neck, shoulder or crossbody!

Your Current Strap

Firstly, do you have a strap that you know is a great length? If so, take it off your camera and measure the full length of it. If you’re happy with this strap then you now have your measurement to use in my shop! If you have light weight gear (eg mirrorless / film) then go for a thin strap. If you’re using something a bit heavier (eg DSLR) then go for a wide strap.

Length Brackets

60 – 80cm (23 – 31”)

This is the shortest bracket of straps in my range. I like to refer to them as ‘quick-draw’ as they are close to your face and you can very quickly get them up to your eye to take a shot. While out shooting they tend prevent the camera from flapping around so they can be ideal for hiking with. Straps of this length can be worn on the shoulder or neck and are ideal for smaller cameras like compact, mirrorless or film cameras. Stride and Peak are good choices here with their slim profile, but a wider strap is equally as good!

Short leather camera strap — 70cm (27”) Peak Strap

85 – 100cm (33” – 39”)

Mid length straps that are well suited to a wide range of users. Wear them on your neck, shoulder or crossbody and they sit on your abs. This means they are ideal for offering flexibility while still being close to your face to quickly get a shot. In addition to the smaller cameras above, straps of this length are also suited to DSLRs, bridge and medium format cameras. If you have light gear go for Stride or Peak but if your gear is on the heavier side then opt for Ridge or Vantage as they have a wider profile.

Mid length leather camera strap — 100cm (39”) Ridge

105 – 120cm (41” – 47”)

The longest range of straps in my range and they get your camera sitting around your waistline. They are also great if your are a large person and it offers the ability to carry on your neck, shoulder or crossbody. Lengths in this bracket are suited to all types of cameras and again go for a slim strap (Stride, Peak) if you have lighter gear or a wide strap (Ridge, Vantage) for heavier gear.