Carrying Two Cameras | Ask David Bergman

Today's question from Jon O. is, “What kind of camera strap do you recommend for sports and event photography? I’d like something that can safely carry heavy-duty cameras like two Canon 1Dx Mark II bodies with the 100-400 lens on one of them.”
Go to www.AskDavidBergman.com to submit your own photo question, see David's gear list, and view the episode archive.
00:00 Intro
01:08 Why use two cameras?
01:42 Shoot wide, medium, tight
02:59 Switch lenses quickly
04:10 Keep your lenses consistent
04:39 Prevent accidental setting changes
05:18 Do you still need 2.8 lenses?
07:03 Camera straps
08:29 Best camera strap for two bodies
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✘ PRODUCTS USED:
Holdfast Gear Money Maker Straps
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Domke Gripper Strap
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✘ PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT USED:
Canon EOS R Mirrorless Full Frame Digital Camera Body
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Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM Zoom Lens
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Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 Black Aluminum Tripod with MVH502AH Pro Video Head
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CLAR Illumi Max 500 High Power 5600K LED Light
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Glow EZ Lock Octa Quick XL Softbox With Bowens Mount (48")
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#camerastraps #photographytutorial #adorama
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Get more information about David's #shootfromthepit live concert photography workshops at www.ShootFromThePit.com
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THANKS SO MUCH FOR WATCHING!

[@marchinderickx8193]

An additional comment: Don’t forget to synchronize the clock of all bodies ;-)

[@bettyplaticando1325]

Exactly!!

[@StephenDavisMonsignor]

Black Rapid dual for me. Works quite well, light weight, affordable. Rigged similarly to David’s set-up.. 1DX (first gen) on left with 24-70 f/2.8 and 1DXMkIII with 70-200 f/2.8 on the right. Wouldn’t want to be any heavier than that.. lol..

[@RonSkinnerPhotographer]

Love the Holdfast Gear Money Maker use them all the time

[@richhowe4139]

Black Rapid double strap for me, too. I've been using mine for about 10 years and I still like it. I do the same thing with mine - wide zoom lens on the left and telephoto on the right, both on 1DX bodies. The only time I've had back issues was when I carried a messenger bag with some accessories when I had to be separated from my main bag (in the car) for some reason. I've since switched to a small backpack style bag to go with my double strap. It's great.

[@jjjkenny]

I have used a BlackRapid dual strap with 2xD810, 2xD850 and now with 2xZ7 II. Had spine surgery last December. Balance is more important than weight. Went for f4 lenses and primes. Sometimes I use a small backpack with a third lens. The three weights equalize balance, side to side and forward and back.

[@adamsheridan2073]

Great video as always! Love my HF Moneymaker - and I'll see you in the Pit in Denver!

[@benpeterson3847]

I am using the Black Rapid double harness, and it have done a good job for nearly 10 years

[@randyfox5317]

Black Rapid Dual here. I like how I can still use the set up (by removing a strap) to comfortably go longer on one body/lens set up if I want to. Great video, David!

[@tylerHphoto]

Great video, I use the black rapid breath double strap. And I carry the same way you do, long glass on my right and wide glass on my left.

[@DavidVelezPhotography]

Thanks, David! My personal choice is the two-camera holster from Spider Camera Holster. It takes the weight off of my back and shoulders! I've added belt keepers (similar to what PD uses for gun belts) and attach them to my main belt. It helps maintain the holster from slipping down or spinning around.

[@gmcmahon9558]

I used this Holster for years and just developed a numbness in my thigh from pinching the nerve in my hip. Very common among Police who carry gun holsters! Now looking for an alternative!

[@jpdj2715]

For two cameras, I use Think Tank Photo's biggest belt and harness. And their camera strap that is about as wide as David's preferred in the video. The camera strap has a big eyelet (ring) on each side and these are hooked into a snap hook on the harness (at two levels). The weight is moved from the neck to the shoulder and waist. Accessory bags can be hooked on the belt, and can hold additional lenses, off camera flash, etc. It looks a bit commando, but is way more elegant than the wide camera brand straps. And works very fast. Buying the individual parts to arrive at what they were intended to become, was a bit of a puzzle, but I survived it. And am happy with it.

[@wile1coyote]

The issue with the Think Tank Strap is that the cameras attach to the rig about 3 inches below the shoulders, and they pull you down from that point all day long. The literally pull you forward as the cameras try to seek gravity balance. I had this whole rig with the belts and pouches and just found after a full 8 hours in the pits at a music fest it was not as comfortable as the Black Rapid or the strap David shows here which allow the camera weight to be down at your hips with the weight pulling straight down on the body instead of forward. Just my personal experiences. I never ever wear my think tank strap any longer.

[@lefturn99]

Black Rapid double harness. Used it for years.

[@trevhillphotography7852]

Great advice David, and your set up sounds perfect for Concert photography. Getting a bit more DOF at 5.6 can only benefit your story telling. I find myself sometimes shooting in industrial or agricultural environments where you also need to react fast for images as the subject is working, so dual camera set ups with a wide focal range are the way to go.

[@johnbivins]

Awesome Video! My third year using Holdfast gear (currently using the Mando Moneymaker (yep Mandalorian Star Wars!) and Mando solo when not using two bodies) along with the Explorer pouches, quiver system, and more. Wanted something that had it all, distribution of my gear, Quality, security, and didn't look like I was going to the range with a kit on, Holdfast is it for me too! Saw you keep gaffer tape on your hoods, it comes in handy, forgot who taught me that a while back! Been shooting concerts for a bit but still struggle with some things, going to sign up for one of your live concert workshops! Love your work!

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

I’ve got gaff tape everywhere!

[@sportsshooter2574]

great video. You are absolutely right about the high ISO capability of the 1Dx MKIII/MKII. I gave up my old 400/2.8L IS for the 400/4 DO MKII. I also use the 100-400 like you do and can shoot at 10,000 ISO with very little noise. So my set up is 24-105 & 100-400 or 70-200/2.8 & 400/4 DO. I use a R strap for the 700-200/100-400 ( see profile photo) and an Optech on the camera when using the 24-105 / 16-35 lenses. Much better for my back!!!

[@abdillahmuhammadal-maawiy5707]

Good video.. thank you for the tips 👍👍

[@andymoran8007]

Picked up Black Rapid's duel camera strap this past weekend after dealing with some terrible shoulder pain from shooting full weddings with a single over the chest strap for years. Made a WORLD of difference on my back and shoulder, plus getting to expand my available zoom length at any moments notice is such a game changer.

[@ScottTice1971]

Careful as you bend over; cameras can still crash together.

[@intillanes]

I have the same strap brown. It looks that will last forever. Great item! Great video by the way.

[@108u9]

David, some follow up: • have you had issues when you need to squat down fast to get a low angle shot or to duck but forgot you have the telephoto side hanging down? How would you suggest dealing with this? • how do you carry extra lenses (and accessories) to change out? Say a fast prime for some variety? Would/Do you only change out one particular side and always keep one camera locked with the same lens?

[@RonaldLadao]

I want to answer this question. I TRIED doing the dual camera harness thing along with the "sal cincotta photographers bug out bag" (google or youtube it). And I can tell you. It's not a really comfortable position to have dual cameras while swapping lens if have to be, and carrying the Sal Cincotta Photographer Bug Out Bag. That bag was not design for dual camera harness use IMO. So if I have to give you an experience opinion on your question. I went with the "The Vest Guy; Press Photo Vest". I didn't like the camera straps came with the vest because of how the design the clip to attach the camera with. so I swap it out with the BlackRapid Backpack Breathe Strap for Camera. Another thing I wish the manufacture / The Vest Guy did was re-design the pockets. The pockets are okay, but I fear the lens will fall out. After thinking about my comment. Take my "The Vest Guy" opinion with a grain of salt. I like the vest, and pockets. But don't buy their camera straps, and be cautious when lens swapping with their vest.

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

I make it a habit of keeping my hands on my lenses when they’re on my side. So I usually don’t forget when I need to kneel. :) I suppose you could add a small waist bag or attach a pouch to one of these d-rings for a small prime lens.

[@markkempton4579]

I carry my bodies on two sling straps. When I'm not shooting the 70-200 on the right, I make sure it's behind me on my backside. It's less likely to hit the ground when I kneel down. So far, so good. The truth is, though, I knock these things around all the time. They are fine. It's the reason I buy pro gear and carry insurance.

[@ruibandeirafotografia]

I use the blackrapid double strap, i love them

[@wheelhousewatch]

Wide, medium, tight. This is the mark of a professional photographer. I was taking pictures but missing telling the bigger story. Thanks David.

[@blueserpentmedia3066]

All good advice as usual. Just heads up for those of us in the UK. Although The Moneymaker is available in the UK it is very expensive. After a little looking I found a company called Colverliliy Leatherworks who manufacture by hand and supply both dual and single leather straps in many colours. The quality and durability is without question. I have had mine for over 2 years now well used and it is as good as the day it arrived. Now the best part ..... Ben the owner will supply the dual harness for just over £100 which in my book is a total bargain for something that will last for years.

[@samanthaodonnell4329]

Still on two seperate straps due to the Lowepro street & field belt & harness that I use. Thinking about the moneymaker or a black rapid equivalent is just going to get in the way. But yes my straps are simple neoprene, with clips to quickly remove from the bodys, and plain black too (from a very early video of yours!)

[@marktomphotography]

Great tip on the vertical grip power button! Ha never thought of that. Duh on my part. When shooting nightlife events, I'm usually carrying one body with a flash and prime lens to capture the attendees and then a zoom for the performances. The shutter would often trigger when walking around with the camera body hanging off to the side. :) For carrying two cameras, the Black Rapid doubles are great.

[@richardpcrowe]

I have shot with a pair of bodies since the 1960's. I used to use a pair of straps and then I began using dual straps. I finally evolved to using one camera on a strap around my neck (against my chest) with the second camera in a camera holster bag which is strapped across my body on my left side under my arm (the strap for this bag is beneath the strap for the camera around my neck). I use a hand strap on the camera in the case. Really handy combination for my style of shooting and I also have a safe place to hold my extra cards and batteries... Whether I have the longer lens in the holster or around my neck depends on which lens I will be shooting with primarily. Shooting sports with a really long and heavy lens, I will often use a monopod for the longer tele combination and a hand strap on the shorter lens....

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

I personally don’t like to wear anything around my neck anymore. That’s gets painful over time.

[@T_Nice]

Whew whee, Thank You so much for sharing this very Imperative tip, it is definitely going to save me a lot of trouble, heartache and heartache in the future.❤

[@njrivetelite]

I almost bought the Holdfast Money Maker. I also dig the name.. although, ultimately, I went with the RL Handcraft Clydesdale Pro. It's similar to Holdfast in quality I just liked how the straps linked up in the back. Plus after seeing a few colleagues rocking them. I really liked how they looked. Not that the Holdfast isn't awesome too.

[@themaestro7922]

Yep, it's the blackrapid rual one for me too.

[@franknurnberger1102]

2x Upstrap. A9+28-75(lright shoulder), a9II+70-200/2.8(left shoulder), 14-24 jacket pocket right, flash jacket pocket left. 2 spare batteries inner breast pocket.. Thinking of switching to 35-150/2-2.8 on a A1 and a 17-28Tamron in the jacket pocket.

[@ImOnTheEdge]

I use the BlackRapid dual strap setup

[@ScottTice1971]

I’m rocking Holdfast as well… it’s the best. Tried the dual BlackRapid and it’s just not that great. Cameras still can crack together while bending over.

[@rumporridge1]

Holdfast all day long. Brown leather looks sweet too. Fuji XT3 50-140mm on the right. Fuji XH1 16-55mm on the left. Been working great for last 2 years now. Used 2 Blackrapid straps before that. That set up was a bit clumsy.

[@tarjei99]

Very good advice. I like the canon broad straps because they distribute the load slightly better. I dislike the narrow R6 strap. It feels cheap. The Canon straps might work better for me since my two camera setup is one camera on the tripod and one around the neck. I really like the placement of the power button on the Canon 1D cameras. They all used to have them there. My right thumb know where it is. And then it changed. Aaaaaaaarrrrrrrrggggggggghhhh! I can't for my life think of a good reason to have the power button on the left hand side. It is slow and anoying. The left hand is the one that holds the camera.

[@baronsilverton6504]

Have you tried/compared the Holdfast to the Rose Anvil - I am considering both but most reviews praise the Rose Anvil over the Holdfast on several metrics including comfort of the back, and very importantly you can hook the cameras into your belt to take the weight off of the back altogether when standing around - be curious what your research said on this?

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

Never heard of that but will check it out.

[@intrinsicimagery]

Holdfast for life!

[@ScottTice1971]

When you know, you know.

[@robmcd]

Tony Northrupp losing his mind over an F5.6 lens. I just wish we could get like 4.5 70-350 or something.

[@marcinmrzyglocki]

You should have put these straps on in the video, this would better demonstrate their actual look and features. Maybe show a bit of that muscle memory, how do hands actually move, but maybe that's a topic for workshops...

[@PaulMWhite1975]

Currently trying out one standard strap and one on a hip belt, just at regular shows, to see how that goes ahead of 2024 festival seasons when I have to be carrying for longer on consecutive days. I had been using a harness with one on each side, but not crossed on the back, so that could make a difference for me.

[@chuchonmc]

I guess you now at 2023 would be so happy with the 35-150 f2-2.8 ;)

[@Ericbjohnston5150]

Move to one lens CANON EF 28-300MM F3.5-5.6 L IS USM Why use straps. Use holsters. I use a chest holster for my 5Dmk4 70-300 and belt holster for my 7Dmk2. At the same time. I use Cotton Carrier. No swing using holsters. I hate straps.

[@markkempton4579]

I've been using two Joby Slingstraps forever. Unfortunately, I think they stopped making them, so I'm looking at other options. The stuff from PD and similar just look very frail to me. I also don't trust those small clip hanging off the tiny loops on the sides of my body. I prefer to screw right into the tripod thread on the base of my camera. Seems much less likely to break. I'm looking at solutions that utilize the bottom thread, I like the way the camera hangs that way. The spider holsters look interesting, but I sit for indoor sports and the camera would have to come off the holster to allow that. Very confused. At least we have so many options!

[@terrellcwoods]

Wow. Total mind-meld. David, I have a dual camera harness sitting in my cart for almost a month. I just have not pulled the trigger. RL Handcrafts looks to be a competitor of Holdfast. Are you familiar with that brand? The prices are about the same. It does look like their strap rings are quite as prominent. Either way, it looks like you're saying go for the quality. I've used Black Rapid for years but they just don't seem to offer the body support for the bigger sport lenses, 300 2.8 and up. Thanks again. I guess I'll push "BUY"

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

I’m not familiar with that brand, sorry.

[@natestain7103]

My thumb flicks the power switch like the safety on my 1911

[@JonWalkow]

I prefer peak design captures.

[@Me-gy7yk]

Tried a Blackrapid, but hated it. I wish Peak Design would come up with a dual strap that actually feels safe and comfortable with my two 1DX bodies. The Blackrapid didn't feel secure or comfortable, so I returned it. I'll be sticking to using a single body until someone comes up with a good strap for two. One I can afford, I mean...

[@NateSceneTV]

Great video! My dream is to one day have two camera bodies haha!

[@allend6137]

The genius part of it all is his current lens choices 💯

[@wile1coyote]

Same as mine i felt pretty good about that :)

[@donquique1]

I carry four for street photography. A full frame, a crop sensor and two point and shoots. Oh and a phone. The point and shoots are great in museums and for zooming in a pinch. I hate changing lenses.

[@christianmbabazi9722]

4 cameras?

[@scottweaverphotovideo]

What really useful is to see the photographer wearing the cameras to show how you keep straps from tangling, etc etc. Thanks

[@romiemiller7876]

I've been using two camera straps, but that doesn't work well. I'm looking for a harness. I think that'd be a lot better.

[@geoffreystone1598]

Changing lenses in the environment of hot sweaty bodies is asking for corrosion inside your cameras!

[@zoomboy57]

I Never shoot less than 2 camera's mostly 3 not just because multiple lens choice ( camera or card failure ) The last shoot I did was for a shoe company at the Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon. Long lens on my right with a shorter strap hanging in front, 2nd on my left towards the back.

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

I can guess which shoe company in Eugene. :)

[@zoomboy57]

@@DavidBergmanPhoto Perhaps in the past but you might say I found a new Sole-mate

[@ericmeekey7886]

One camera with a 28-300 5.6 multizoom is way simpler

[@berniebarac]

As always Dave, thanks for an awesome video. Personally I use the BlackRapid Double Breathe Strap. It’s not overly expensive, but serves its purpose well. Ideally I’d love a Holdfast, but just the money side of things means I just need to hold off a little longer before I can indulge in one of those. :) PS: If / when concerts can happen again and overseas travel, any chance of doing a shoot from the pit over in Australia? I’m a huge fan of your work and a huge fan of Luke. Being able to learn from and shoot with you at a Luke Combs concert would be a dream come true.

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

We’ll see if he does shows there again! :)

[@berniebarac]

@@DavidBergmanPhoto God I hope so. Please just casually bring it up in conversation with him. Lol.

[@johnlei9821]

How heavy are those leather straps? My BlackRapid dual straps probably weight less than these leather straps.

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

They’re heavy duty for sure. But it doesn’t seem to bother me.

[@EdBareff]

David you look so happy, what the secret? Godblessyou

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

I make pictures for a living! Why wouldn’t I be happy? :)

[@felixrodriguez782]

Great coverage on shooting moving subjects and keeping the range in low light plus mixed lighting events I use the peak design and black rapid straps when shooting at indoor events and air shows so can capture the formation flight and the solo flights. it best to review their the way the plan their show for sunny and cloudy days. that way you plan out how best to shoot the event . Great advice on planning the event to capture the action at the event Thanks David

[@mikehardy8247]

I love the peakdesign straps. The quick release allows one to have a clip on the camera and arca plate for side cary or I also have a clip on the lens mount on my long heavy lenses. I Cary 2 cameras when hiking etc. ,one for landscape, one for wildlife. I also do street festival with bands, same setup. 2 scraps is awkward. I love peakdesign though. Hate screwing into tripod screw, like blackrapid. Maybe PD will make a double harness?

[@FabianEuresti]

hope to attend the Bakersfield event!

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

See you there!

[@FabianEuresti]

@@DavidBergmanPhoto Yes Sir!

[@policeluber6720]

Spider holster ?

[@dicekolev5360]

Both bodies and shooting f4... ugh :D Either 1.8 on both bodies or nothing, lol, Only the 100-400 is the compromise I'd do. #notlikeanybodyaskme

[@SeanWashPhoto]

Mad respect for not spouting the age old tropes of F/2.8 lenses for professional work! I still think they have their place, just like any tool does, but it's not a requirement for professional work where you get paid. I still think people are way to afraid to shoot high ISO which perpetuates the myth that pros need wide aperture lenses and Full Frame sensors to be a professional photographer. What you need is attention to detail, the ability to tell a story and professional courtesy to prepare for a shoot with a plan of action along with great customer service. Those things matter way more than your F-Stop.

[@edng4595]

boy, that looks heavy duty and heavy.

[@geoffreystone1598]

Saves on gym fees lugging all that gear around.

[@tanweercaa]

Great information David, apart from that strap business I really enjoyed how you select your lenses and settings on your gear. Thanks a lot and stay safe ( from, Karachi- Pakistan).

[@ChoicesHabitsAttitudeLuck]

This is where the new Tamron 35-150 f2-2.8 comes in. You don't need 2 camera bodies anymore

[@52701970]

Cameras swing too much, I would go with spider holsters.

[@MikeJamesMedia]

"the band members OR the drummer in back"... Blasphemy! :)

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

Bwahaha. I should have said “including the drummer!”

[@RonaldLadao]

@4:18 When I first started doing event photography. I did just that. Had my telephoto on my right hand, and my standard 24-70 on my left. But since I used mostly my telephoto 70-200 all the time. my hip keep on accidently press the shutter button while on the move. So I switch my telephoto to my left, and my 24-70 on my right. Yeah, I could turn off my camera to prevent that, but that's .5 seconds of a chance of me missing the shot. Also, having the telephoto on my left hand, and use the tripod ring that came with the 70-200. To make it "easier" to shoot vertically when I have to when my camera is hanging from my dual camera harness.

[@sijilo]

hands man

[@michaelwalker2775]

David, I'd just brought a money maker solo, I will let you know how I make out.

[@SwoleBeastTribe]

Twenty Third AND First 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽 # 🔥🔥🔥 T W O Cameras ! 💙💙💙 # 🧨🧨🧨 A S K David B E R G M A N ! 🥶🥶🥶 - Swole Beast🤙🏽🙏🏽✌🏽 P E A C E ! 💎💎💎

[@RockyMaiviaMiami]

First step. Shoot Sony, no grip needed 😁

[@yokeshs8140]

1st...huh...

[@Batteristafoto]

5.6 sucks. Eecchhh. Why would you do that? Just curious

[@DavidBergmanPhoto]

For the reasons I gave in the video. :) Works great for me but might not be right for everyone.

[@Batteristafoto]

@@DavidBergmanPhoto I guess i mean artistically. Why would one do that? Leaves you out of options for many things. But if you don't want the options I guess you save money. Which is ok too

[@SeanWashPhoto]

​@@Batteristafoto This is flawed logic. Because going to a 70-200 f/2.8 has trade offs artistically compared to a 100-400 f/4-5.6. For example, you can't zoom into 400mm on a 70-200. You essentially have "less options" by going with a 70-200 f/2.8. This notion that f/2.8 is roundly better than a lens that cannot achieve f/2.8 is bad critical analysis when you ignore the other variables like focal length and field of view. This also isn't considering things like weight and size of the items as well, which is important for the creative process.

[@frostybe3r]

100-400 for sports? Get a 600 f4 lol

[@atruceforbruce5388]

When I'm making money with my money maker I have my strap on. When I make more money I'll wear a double strap on. But my woman says I don't need a strap on.