Hiking with a Camera

Cotton carrier looks nice if you don't need to use a tripod, but is there a way for easy disconnect when you want to place you cam on a tripod?

It may not be as great as a dedicated system, but I've done a few mid-level hikes with my camera hooked up to the shoulder strap D-rings using Op-tech loop straps. For me, I could flip it right over my head and immediately stick it into an expandable section of my pack (almost like action-hero shot-gun deal) when I needed the camera out of the way. It was certainly cheap considering the entire setup consisted of $25 worth of straps/connectors.

Hardcore wrote in post #10433069
Cotton carrier looks nice if you don't need to use a tripod, but is there a way for easy disconnect when you want to place you cam on a tripod?

Find info on this on their FAQ on their website.

Depends on what you define as 'hiking'... If you're walking a clear, well-maintained trail, any of the recommendations would work (except a belt system...who wants all that gear banging against one's legs?).

But if you're definition of hiking includes scrambling over rocks, 'bushwhacking' through heavy growth, having to cross a creek or something similar, or simply just getting up/down an incline to your shooting spot, its best to keep your gear protected in a backpack and keeping your hands free. Last thing I want in these situations is a camera secured to my D-rings. So, it all depends on the definition of 'hiking'.

http://www.thinktankph​oto.com …amera-support-straps.aspx

How about something like that? I'm thinking of getting some straps like those for the same reasons you mention.

argyle: Spider seems to work for some though

So I decided to go with swival hook connectors from Optech which should (hopefully) fit the quick release connectors of my Optech strap to a quick change into hanging off my backpack. I'm also going to build a chest support strap with quick connects from the backpacks waist belt for stabilization. Appreciate everyones help and input.

J-Blake wrote in post #10441096
So I decided to go with swival hook connectors from Optech which should (hopefully) fit the quick release connectors of my Optech strap to a quick change into hanging off my backpack. I'm also going to build a chest support strap with quick connects from the backpacks waist belt for stabilization. Appreciate everyones help and input.

Be sure to share the results I'm sure folks would be interested in seeing what you get set up.

argyle wrote in post #10434117
But if you're definition of hiking includes scrambling over rocks, 'bushwhacking' through heavy growth, having to cross a creek or something similar, or simply just getting up/down an incline to your shooting spot, its best to keep your gear protected in a backpack and keeping your hands free. Last thing I want in these situations is a camera secured to my D-rings. So, it all depends on the definition of 'hiking'.

Argyle hit the spot on this one.

Just a few days ago, a friend and I were hiking like that. It all started out fine and dandy, so we had our cameras out. After awhile, we came up to a 60° that was covered in hard packed snow that we had to cross. We both placed our cameras away at that moment. Thus our cameras' are protected incase we do fall down this steep hill, also we have use of both hands. Not needing to hold our swinging camera around.

We also had to cross two swollen creeks and various technical terrain. It wasn't an area where I wanted my camera out, swinging about around my neck, or hitting the ground as I leaned forward to climb some steep sections.

Not only that, but you also need to consider the safety aspect of something hanging off the front of your chest...you may find yourself in a situation where your gear may prohibit you from clearly seeing where you need to place your feet when on uneven terrain or when trying to climb up and over an obstacle.

J-Blake wrote in post #10414392
....As this hike was pretty easy and the weather was nice I kept my camera out most of the time which bugged me as it was supported around my neck. I noticed there are D loops on the backpack shoulder straps and figured I could by some camera straps made to attach there which I could use when hiking with the pack to put the camera weight on my shoulders and off my neck. ....

TIA,
Jon

J-Blake wrote in post #10418922
....The bag I have is a Lowepro Primus which is a backpack style bag which offers side entry like a sling bag. It holds quite a bit more than a sling bag and seems a bit more comfortable. The side access works as advertised and is great for accessing the camera compartment, otherwise you have to remove it and it's similar to a fast pack. But even the side access is nowhere near as fast as raising the camera which is right in front of you....

Jon

I agree with the last couple comments. If a difficult path is encountered the camera goes in the bag.


Snydremark, will do.

Hmm...I'm stumped. With the belt system I can imagine how much leg slapping there would be. With something like a CC, I'm worried about sweat dripping down to the camera. The only camera bags I have are the 6MDH and a Lowepro 300 AW. Shoulder strap vs backpack with waist belt. Hmm. Which would you choose for a hike about 30 miles long?

Depends on the weight you are carrying. If just the camera and a few other items. The 300 will give you easiest access. If your packing a lot of weight, you might be happier with a more conventional pack.

joosay wrote in post #10491700
Hmm...I'm stumped. With the belt system I can imagine how much leg slapping there would be. With something like a CC, I'm worried about sweat dripping down to the camera. The only camera bags I have are the 6MDH and a Lowepro 300 AW. Shoulder strap vs backpack with waist belt. Hmm. Which would you choose for a hike about 30 miles long?

Depends on the weight, and also if an overnight is involved. Either way, overnight or not, I'd really recommend a backpack of some type or another, and possibly one with an internal frame for that type of distance. It'll stow your gear, hold the tripod, and have enough room for other necessities such as water bottles, food/snacks, windbreaker/shell just in case, etc. For shorter distances, a decent photo backpack with two separate compartments, such as Lowepro Rover or Lowepro Dryzone Rover, would work...one compartment for gear, and an upper compartment for extras/necessities (the Dryzone Rover is similar to the Rover, except that the gear compartment is totally waterproof).

A Cotton Carrier may be okay for event photography (car shows, weddings, etc) but for hiking and having the ability to carry gear I wouldn't bother with one.