A few months ago I was fortunate enough to receive the Black Black Rapid RS-5 Camera Strap[Amazon] from the fine folks at Black Rapid.

Why take so long to review a camera strap?

I wanted to ensure that it held up to the tasks you would throw at it as a potential user.  How did it stack up?  Keep reading to find out.

About the Camera Strap

The Black Rapid RS-5 is designed to be worn across the shoulder in a sling like fashion.  The camera is attached to the camera strap via the tripod socket which allows the camera to hang at the hip upside down and ready to grab.

Specific to the RS-5 are pockets built into the shoulder strap for carrying a phone, business cards, memory cards, extra batteries, etc.

Black Rapid RS-5 Review

After taking a few minutes to adjust the RS-5 to my height and comfort level I immediately felt at ease.  The camera hangs very securely and it just kind feels natural to grab the camera from your side in a flash.

The heavy padding in the shoulder strap and the diagonal positioning really help to distribute the weight evenly.  This is very welcomed during long shooting sessions.  One of the reasons I waited to review the camera strap was to use it at a wedding I was working as a second shooter.   I remember all too well how tired and sore my neck would be after shooting a wedding with traditional camera straps.  This was not the case when using the RS-5.  I wish I had this when I was shooting weddings a few years ago.

This camera strap delivers the goods.  It works exactly as advertised.  It’s feels very well built and I expect it to last me quite a long time.

The pockets can get a little bulky depending on how much you stuff them but I’ve found the camera strap so useful I’m often going out without my camera bag on photowalks.  I just ensure I’ve got a spare battery, some business cards, and extra memory cards and I’m good to go.

I’m absolutely in love with this product and it has easily become my most useful piece of photographic equipment.  I’m not alone in this thought either.

I’m giving the Black Rapid RS-5 Camera Strap a

5 out of 5!

Here’s a video on the Black Rapid RS-5 Camera Strap:

BLACKRAPID RS-5 Basic Setup & Features from BLACKRAPID on Vimeo.

You can get your very own Black Rapid RS-5 Camera Strap at Amazon today!