For decades, the standard way to carry a camera has been via the camera strap. But is it the best way? What about a clip-on belt approach?
Camera straps can be a pain in the neck. Literally. They add weight to back of your neck as the weight of your camera pulls you forward and this has been known to cause long-term spinal problems for professional shooters. Besides, they’re a choke hazard.
There must be a better way.
Spider has an alternative: The SpiderPro Camera Holster system consists of a belt that is reminiscent of a contractor’s tool belt, a durable, metal holster box that holds the camera in place, and accessories that let you quickly place your camera on a quick-lock type tripod head. I’ve tried the system and found it to be a surprisingly comfortable way to carry a big, heavy camera and lens.
Check out this video for a quick overview:
Product Profile: Spider Camera Holster
The entire system can be ordered together SHSPS or separately if you want to carry multiple cameras, and is designed to handle a fully loaded pro-level DSLR with a tele zoom.
Let’s look at each part of the system:
The Belt: The belt sits on your waist, which takes the weight of your camera off your neck, and is designed to carry the heaviest pro camera bodies and lenses. It is made from similar webbing materials to those used for police equipment. There’s a triple-lock buckle, a 2-inch belt and a reinforced holster area to protect your hips from the camera banging against them.
Holster Box: Clip the camera to your belt via the cast aluminum alloy Holster Box. When attached, the camera is at your hand level, convenient and ready for use. A two-position lock locks the camera securely in place, but also lets you quickly disengage for quick access.
SpiderPro Plate: Screw the cast aluminum alloy SpiderPro plate to the bottom of your camera and you can quickly connect your tripod quick-release.
There are also adapters for ThinkTank, Arca-Swiss, and other bags and tripod heads, and Spider says they’re expanding the lineup.
What about smaller cameras? You’re also in luck. The SpiderHolster Black Widow clips on to any belt and securely holds lightweight DSLRs and smaller cameras. Again, I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable and convenient it was!
