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Best Hands-free Camera Harness |Secure your Gear

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A camera harness is a piece of equipment that is typically secured across the chest and

shoulders in the same style as a backpack or rucksack. On a basic level, it secures the

photographer’s camera against their chest using a locking mechanism that varies in design

from product to product.

The intention is to provide an easy and accessible means of accessing the camera, while

preventing movement of the device in line with the wearer’s body. Unlike a neck strap, a

camera mounted by harness has far less range of motion.

See Also: Camera Backpack Review

When it comes to carrying around a large, professional-grade camera, care should always be

taken to secure it to the body in some way. An unsecured camera invites many risks, including

the potential for damage, loss or theft. There are numerous options available for carrying a

camera around, including straps that can be worn around the neck, or camera harnesses that

are worn around the torso. The latter type is what we’ll examine below.

Best Hands-free Camera Harness

Image

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Co�on Carrier 635RTL Camera Vest for 1 CameraProduct

$$$Price

4.6/5

Ra�ng

Image

Keyhole Hands Free Camera HarnessProduct

$Price

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Cotton Carrier 635RTL Camera Vest for 1 Camera, Black

4.1/5

Ra�ng

Image

Movo Photo MB1000 Mul� Camera Vest with Side HolsterProduct

$$Price

4.5/5

Ra�ng

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The Cotton Carrier 635RTL camera harness comes in at the upper end of the budget, typically

costing a fair bit more than many of the entry-level harnesses. A patented twist and lock

system makes the attachment and detachment of a camera fuss-free, so that the wearer will

never miss a time-sensitive shot.

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Worn around the torso, with straps extending fully around the back and over the shoulders, the

harness features an equipment storage pouch beneath the locking system, so that there’s room

for additional batteries or other compact items that the photographer may need to have close

to hand.

The harness weighs in at 1.8 lbs., so it won't add a great deal of weight when carrying around

the attached camera, and the bene�ts far outweigh the drawback of a little additional carry

weight. Since this harness is quite back-heavy, it should at least balance out once the camera

has been factored in.

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Pros

LightweightIncludes a tripod plate component

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Some packages include a rain coverPatented locking system guarantees an original designAdjustable straps that cater for varia�ons in clothing thicknessConstructed from strong and durable materials; built to lastFeatures an equipment pouch that is readily accessible beneath the mount

Cons

May not be well suited to those with a very small frameLots of material means hot weather is less comfortableLarge price difference between this model and cheaper alterna�vesEquipment pouch won’t typically have space for bulky lensesCan be tricky to get used to the twist locking mechanism

Summary

If price isn’t really a limitation, then the Cotton Carrier harness is an excellent choice for any

photographer who needs to protect their camera against rigorous body movements or keep

their hands free for other activities. A patented locking mechanism means there’s no need to

worry about buckles and straps when it comes to securing the camera, or detaching it to

capture those important moments—simply, unlock and shoot.

The Cotton Carrier also goes one step further than a great deal of other camera harnesses by

providing a small pouch. Though the capacity is limited, it’s a great means of storing small

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essentials, such as batteries or SD cards, and the physical location beneath the camera on the

stomach means that it is very easy to access on the move.

Keyhole Hands Free Camera Harness, Black

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The Keyhole Hands Free Camera Harness is designed to integrate with your existing backpack

or rucksack by connecting to the shoulder straps. This has one major bene�t: Unlike many

other harnesses, the weight of the camera and the harness itself is transferred into the straps

of the backpack, which are typically stronger and more durable, placing the load on the

photographer’s shoulders as opposed to placing strain on the neck.

Access to the camera, once secured, is incredibly quick and easy; it’s simple a case of sliding the

camera unit from the keyhole lock, which can be tightened using the supplied key. What’s more,

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the built-in security straps maintain a hold on the camera, in case it was to slip from the

Keyhole hands free camera harness as a result of not being properly secured.

Owing to the minimalistic design and lack of any extensive padding on the chest or back straps,

this harness is much lighter than the other choices we have highlighted, and as such it is well

suited to those who �nd it more dif�cult to carry around heavy loads. However, this means that

it can’t be worn on its own without a backpack to connect to.

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Pros

Easier to keep cool in hot environmentsLightweight design reduces the carry load

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Can be worn with an exis�ng, owned backpackQuick access to the camera for poin�ng and shoo�ng

Cons

No space for storage of ba�eries and SD cardsCertain backpacks may be incompa�ble with the keyhole harness strapsMust be taken off at the same �me as the backpack that it is a�ached to

Summary

The Keyhole hands free camera harness is an ideal choice for those who already have a

preferred camera setup, with an existing backpack, but who do not want the fuss of a full torso

harness. It is also a good choice for anyone with back problems, as it helps reduce the load

placed on the back and neck when compared to basic neck straps or more heavy, complex

harnesses.

Whereas many camera harnesses have thick padding around the back and chest, the Keyhole

harness keeps it simple so that there’s space to integrate with a backpack, regardless of

however bulky that backpack is. This does mean that there’s a need to remove both the harness

and the backpack simultaneously when unloading your equipment, but for those constantly on

the move, this is unlikely to become too much of a problem. It’s also far easier to fold up and

store when taken off, as it takes up less space.

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Movo Photo MB1000 Multi Camera Vest with Side Holster

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One drawback to using camera neck straps that has not already been mentioned is the strain

that they can place on the neck and shoulders. Though a professional camera may not feel

particularly weighty, the effects of a prolonged weight hanging around the neck can gradually

present themselves in the form of neck strain, particularly on longer photo shoots, such as at

weddings.

This is another reason to choose a harness, and the Movo Photo MB1000 Multi Camera

Carrying Vest is specially designed to provide support for the neck and shoulders, with extra-

thick padding and support around the upper back and shoulders. This provides control and a

comfortable �t for those lengthy shooting sessions.

Another notable point for this harness is the inclusion of backup straps that secure the camera

to a second point, in addition to the basic locking mechanism. Though unlikely, if the locking

mechanism did happen to fail or was not secured properly, the straps would prevent a costly

accident in case the camera were to fall; the straps would keep the camera securely attached to

the harness.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that the Movo Photo MB1000 Multi Camera Carrying Vest comes

with a side holster. The holster has capacity to hold a second camera, in case the photographer

is somebody who likes to run with a dual setup. Switching between the two cameras is as

simple as swapping between the two. Alternatively, the pouch could even be used to store

batteries, SD cards and lens covers, further reducing the need to carry equipment by hand.

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Pros

One size fits allThis harness isn’t going to break the bank

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Capable of holding 2Backup camera straps provide con�ngency in case of locking mechanism failureA locking key is provided to adjust the locking mechanism to the preferred �ghtness

Cons

Unlike the Co�on Carrier, this harness doesn’t come with a tripod plateThe back strap is secured by Velcro as opposed to a more secure buckleWhen using 2 cameras, the harness feels very heavy and can pull down or to the sideIt’s unlikely that the holster will fit any lenses, even if not carrying a second camera

Summary

The Movo Photo MB1000 Multi Camera Carrying Vest is cheaper than the Cotton Carrier by a

large degree, though by no means worse in quality. If safety is a concern, then the backup

security straps are sure to provide some peace of mind, as they guard against the prospect of

not having secured the locking mechanism properly. Although the back straps on the reverse

are secured by Velcro, this doesn’t mean that they won’t be reliable, and there’s always the

possibility of upgrading to a buckle.

The inclusion of a holster for a second camera is a great feature for those who like to carry a

spare or a different camera and lens setup. Though the holster isn’t large enough to �t most

lenses for those only using 1 camera, it could still be used to store other, smaller accessories.

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Conclusion

When buying a camera harness, consideration should be given to several factors, as mentioned

above. This will ensure that the harness purchased is �t for purpose and suits the photographer

well, whilst meeting their basic needs.

Any one of these 3 camera carrying harnesses would be ideal for the photographer who spends

their time partaking in sports while shooting, or who engages in prolonged shoots for

weddings, journalism or other events. Personal choice will dictate which is most suitable, but

whether the preference is for something more padded that offers neck and shoulder support,

or a more basic harness such as the Keyhole hands free camera harness, the market offers

something for everyone.

Choosing the Best Hands-free Camera Harness instead of astrap

Although camera straps worn around the neck can be convenient and suited to basic camera

use, they do not typically provide a great deal of support during more involved activities, and as

such, they are typically the choice of tourists or casual hobbyists.

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For example, during outdoor hikes or climbing, or more strenuous activities, camera straps

tend to result in the camera swinging around or hanging; this can lead to impact damage if the

unit knocks against hard objects. Therefore, it’s always better to consider a camera harness if

the intention is to be moving around a great deal whilst using the camera, or requiring one’s

hands to be kept free for activities.

The bene�ts of securing a camera

There are many reasons that one might want to consider using a hands-free camera harness.

First and foremost, professional cameras don’t come cheap and breakages can be expensive to

rectify. Thus, it makes sense to want to protect them against accidental damage. A camera

harness provides durable support for a range of cameras, minimizing the risk of breakage

through careless handling or accidents.

Secondly, using a camera harness frees up the photographer’s hands for a range of other tasks.

If shooting for a wedding or special event, the photographer will be free to navigate and set up

a scene and direct guests into position, without worrying about handling the camera at the

same time as any other set pieces. Distraction can lead to accidents, which can again lead to

damage, but the risk is minimized with the use of a harness that �xes the camera in place.

Finally, when using a camera, every photographer should and likely will be familiar with the risk

of theft. Carrying around such an expensive bit of kit in plain sight of opportunists is a risk, but

it is one that can be mitigated through the use of a camera harness.

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Most harnesses use either durable straps and locks, or complex mechanical locking systems.

When coupled with the fact that the camera is secured immediately to the front of the torso, it

becomes a deterrent to any would-be thief.

What to look for when buying a harness

There are several considerations to bear in mind when choosing a camera harness, in order to

ensure that the �nal product purchased is �t for purpose and for the intended wearer. With the

below list, anybody should be able to make an informed decision about which harness to buy.

Consider the added weight of the harness

Cameras can vary in weight, though camera harnesses can, too. If using a heavy camera and

lens setup, then it may be worth purchasing one of the lighter camera harnesses on the market,

so as not to add excess weight to the load being carried. This will make it far easier to sustain

the equipment during long shoots or sporting expeditions, without putting health at risk.

Ensure that the �t will be comfortable

Bodies are built differently and as such the �t of a camera harness will vary from person to

person. Though some harnesses promise a “one size �ts all” approach, others may not. This may

be an issue for those with a larger frame, or a larger chest area, for example. Thus, always take

into consideration the �ne print and description of the product, ensuring that the �t will be

suitable.

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Consider any health issues the wearer may have

The design of a camera harness can directly impact the part of the body on which the load is

placed. Sufferers of neck conditions should avoid harnesses that place most of the load on this

area of the body. Similarly, those with back problems should avoid purchasing harnesses that

place strain on the back. This information can usually be discerned by reading reviews, reading

product descriptions, and examining product images.

Decide whether room for equipment storage is of importance

When it comes to camera harnesses, it can often feel like storage is generally an afterthought

in the design process. Many harnesses will not include any storage to speak of. However, for

photographers who like to travel light without a backpack, it is worth doing a little extra

research to locate a harness with a storage pouch, so that the camera will never be short of

battery power or room for other accessories such as straps and memory cards.

Consider the materials and fasteners

There are two reasons to consider the materials that are used to construct the harness and the

quality of the fasteners. Firstly, many photographers spend a large amount of time moving

around in hot environments, be it shooting outdoors or within a con�ned space.

With the wrong materials, cha�ng and sweating can quickly become a problem. Care should be

taken to look for something minimalistic and breathable, which will help to avoid this issue.

Secondly, the quality of the fasteners, or security straps, is of high importance, as they are the

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lifeline that protects the camera from a sudden fall. These should be built from high quality and

durable materials.

Even with all the above information, navigating the market to choose a suitable camera harness

can be tricky, which is why we’ve compiled a quick list of the top three choices when it comes to

quality and value for money.

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About the Author

My name is Stuart Taylor, I'm the founder of PROTON PACK, a place

where I review camera bags, backpacks and accessories. If you have a

topic that you would like me to explore, let me know and I will do my

best to provide the information. I welcome your feedback and

suggestions.

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