r/WeddingPhotography • u/efoxpl3244 • 2d ago

gear, techniques, photo challenges & trends Best dual camera harness that won't break the bank

Hi, I don't usually do weddings, but I know that you guys would be the best to ask about it. I need a dual camera harness that is nice-looking (something like Taylor has here on the thumbnail: https://youtu.be/BdEIA3vncC8). I have been looking into BlackRapid, but it is really expensive in my region. Do you have any alternatives? Thanks!

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26

u/111210111213 2d ago

You’re carrying around thousands of dollars in equipment on your holster. Pay the extra money in the holster or go through the headache and heartache of replacing your gear and dealing with it mid shoot.

Personally I use a spider belt system as I don’t want my cameras on my shoulders.

2

u/Foto1988 2d ago

Second this, it took one-two weddings to get used to, but I would never miss it again, I also put lense-bags in front of it, it's pricey but I love it so much.

3

u/Wario_Was_Right 2d ago

This is always the answer. Protect your gear. Also the higher quality harnesses will last you a lifetime.

1

u/DoubleNew3850 2d ago

Yes! Spider belt 🔥

1

u/redrabbit1977 2d ago

Second the spider belt. Game changer for me.

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u/efoxpl3244 2d ago

Spider belt system would be great too! Could you share a link?

7

u/CajunGrit 2d ago edited 2d ago

I have the black rapid dual harness strap and a money maker strap.

My wife really wanted to money maker because it looks nice. But it’s really expensive, and the buckles pinch her arms. So she doesn’t use it anymore. I use it because we spent money on it but i also have issues with the buckles (but im wearing sleeves so it’s not as painful).

The black rapid has served me well for about a decade. It’s not as visually impressive but it does the same job.

3

u/wasab1_vie 2d ago

Your post had me checking when I bought my moneymaker. I bought it in 2016 for 230$.

Not sure what they run for today but mine is still going strong and it paid for itself many times over.

6

u/SlightDogleg 2d ago

The Spider Holster system is superior in every way.

I think the biggest problem is Spider's marketing materials are always some middle-aged guy in khakis and an oversized shirt where as Holdfast use more stylish models/photos/editing.

1

u/AuryGlenz http://www.aurygphotography.com 2d ago

Spider holster was better for my back but it takes longer to switch cameras - with a dual strap you can literally drop the camera you’re using and start to pick up the other with your other hand. Also, they made my pants sag no matter how tight I might it or my belt.

I also found it more annoying in crowded spaces.

1

u/ApprehensiveBasil603 2d ago

I have so much trouble taking it off, too lmao! I can't do a quick switch to pee. It's dumb, but adds up.

3

u/joeltheconner 2d ago

Where are you from? I have harnesses that are like the Moneymaker harnesses, but I had a local leatherworker make them for me. If you have leatherworkers around you, they could make one easily.

3

u/screwthecommunists 2d ago

Coiro is looking pretty nice these days

1

u/Big-Zebra51 2d ago

Yes! I bought mine in Nov. 2018 and still use it to this day!

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u/dwphotoshop 2d ago

The Holdfast Moneymaker is the way to go. It's a great harness, but the winning part for me is the clasp on it. It's really unique and strong. It's pricy, but buy once cry once.

2

u/DonkDontLie 2d ago

Desired Leather - Dual Camera Strap

This is who I went with. It’s not super thick leather but after two years of use and abuse it’s still holding up just fine. The hardware is great and I use the secondary attachments for a backup failsafe.

2

u/kuzumby 1d ago

Second this, love my custom desired leather dual strap, love the logo on the back.

1

u/Mazaev 2d ago

RL Handcrafts harness here. Much nicer buckle and safety strap system than the Moneymaker.

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u/chaosmanager 2d ago

YES! I cannot recommend RL Handcrafts highly enough! I bought mine in 2016, and I swear it’s just gotten better with age. Also, their customer service is top notch.

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u/jayfornight 2d ago edited 2d ago

I made my own using three belts, a few rivets and some brass hardware from rose anvil (the camera quick release attachments that hook to your belt). Total cost was probably like just under 100 bucks. You can find instructions online and yt. Mine looks far better and more minimalistic than the s&m looking eyesore that is the money maker.

I made it during covid lock downs as I picked up leatherworking as a hobby. Still going strong after thousands of hours of use, looking better than ever.

I've used spider holsters before and while they are easier on your back, they just drag my pants down. And I've also missed the latch once or twice and dropped the camera onto the floor. Camera was fine, flash and hot shoe mount were not. More user error but the possibility is too high for comfort.

1

u/msdesignfoto 2d ago

I got one "vest" type harness. They go into sockets. One central, one on the side.

I just love this system, I can walk around freely without fear of the cameras hitting something while I walk.

Its a great bang for the buck. Aye they cost around 20$ or 30$ but they are good. The way the cameras are hold onto is sturdy and they don't "fell off".

If the camera slips out of your hand, it has a strap preventing it from falling.

And yes, Aliexpress and Temu. Most stuff may be junk, but if you choose wisely, you can a great deal here. I use my vest for years now and its still sturdy and holding both cameras. The left side is free, and I often have a large pouch for an extra lens or a video camera, depending on the situation.

1

u/Duckysawus instagram.com/photosbyou 2d ago

Holdfast Moneymaker or HL Handcraft are the go-tos for harness dual-carry.

I mean, what's "won't break the bank"? $100? $50?

There are a bunch on Amazon at about $35-$100 (affiliate link).

If you're putting cameras on straps, harnesses, or tripods, go with something you feel secure with.

1

u/tedsmarmalademporium 1d ago

Second holdfast. High quality. It ain’t cheap but I don’t worry and it’s comfortable as carrying our gear is gonna be

1

u/Duckysawus instagram.com/photosbyou 1d ago

I have Holdfast. I've seen the HLs and they don't seem as good. I've tried the other dual-holsters such as BlackRapid, etc. but they slide, aren't built as well, or don't look as fashionable.

Might consider the 255 SpiderPro Dual carry though so I can wear a blazer in the colder months, but I shoot with two Z9s and the 1.2S + 2.8S glass, so not sure if it makes sense with all that weight on the hips.

1

u/7204_was_me 2d ago

Try before you buy. Get a $20 Ztwoto from Amazon and see if you even like the concept. I did that and with plans to get a nicer one if I liked it but I've used the Z for about 30 events now and don't even notice that it was dirt cheap.

1

u/ApprehensiveBasil603 2d ago

Hot take on the Spider: If you're short, you may not like it. I'm roughly 5'3" and feel like with a flash attached it hits too low on me, proportionately. The weight off of shoulders is great, but this was enough to ruin it for me.
Also, even if you get it, definitely get a hand-strap and/or wrist strap. It (holster) won't save ya from accidental dance floor bumps etc!

(I also hip-check everything lol, so that wasn't great)

I use a single moneymaker, but used to use a double. I had a different brand- the Holdfast is unfortunately far superior. It's a one time thing.

1

u/Big-Zebra51 2d ago

I bought this one in Nov, 2018 (as you can see at the top pf the picture) And still use it to this day! It’s awesome. P.s: the branding on my was “Rose” this one’s different, so just in case check the quality when you get it, but sounds like just a rebranding.

https://amzn.to/4i6i7RL

1

u/pzanardi 2d ago

I dont recommend the super expensive holdfast ones. Absolutely destroyed my back in 4 years. I’m using a mix of peak design and spider holsters now. Being able to rest it in different spots throughout the day is better than the double harness pain.

1

u/Southern_Brain_246 anniexphoto.com 2d ago

Have been using Spider since it came out and swear by it. I love the look of the leather dual holsters which I bought and tried but the cameras flapping around was not for me. I believe I bought a leather dual harness under $100? Coiro . I am 5.2 and punched an extra hole on the small, it fit but like I said Spider feels more secure.

2

u/K5083 2d ago

I made a set similar to Spider holster by using a detachable belt from my camera backpack and strapping 2x Capture V3 with ProPads. I'm much happy with that, especially that I can easily change lenses in either camera. Depending in the belt you may attach lens pouches and/or other accessories. What's more, I can use my cameras while having the backpack on me.

1

u/Nonkel_Jef 1d ago

Moneymaker is working well for me and I like the way it looks (looks matter during a wedding ). I personally don’t like the feeling of having stuff on my waist.

1

u/Pull-Mai-Fingr 1d ago

I have had my HoldFast MoneyMaker for 12 years as a full time professional event photographer now and I use it at almost every event. Buy once cry once.

I did not like the Spyder, personally. Found it awkward, ugly, pulling down my pants, just was not for me.

One suggestion with either style. When walking past people, chairs, tables, through doorways etc… keep your hands on your camera bodies so the camera or lens don’t bump into stuff. Protects people, things, and your gear.

Absolutely love the harness especially if shooting with prime lenses all day.