If you ask me, there are two pieces of kit that are consistently underrated in terms of their importance to your work: your tripod and your camera strap.
I talked about tripods in another article, so I'll just say here that if you don't appreciate all the ways a tripod can improve the quality of your photos, then you're probably doing something wrong!
When it comes to a camera strap, there's two dimensions that it affects - your ability to take photos efficiently and your ability to work in comfort.
Now, some people think that all camera straps are alike, and I'm here to tell you otherwise.
Let me explain how to choose the ultimate camera strap by using the Holdfast MoneyMaker as an ideal example. After all, it's the nicest multi-camera strap I've ever encountered!
You Want User-Friendly Design
Some would argue that the whole point of a multi-camera strap is so you can work in comfort.
And though that's certainly a virtue of these straps (more on that in a bit), I'd actually say that the number-one reason a multi-camera strap is so great is because of its user-friendly design.
With the MoneyMaker, you can carry up to three camera bodies (with optional camera leashes) - two at your sides and one at your chest - as seen above.
That means you have three options of bodies and lenses right at your fingertips.
There's no messing about with getting gear out of your bag. No worry about swapping lenses.
However, if you have some accessories you want to keep close, the MoneyMaker can accommodate by allowing you to carry a Sightseer or Explorer camera bag, as seen above.
In other words, the days of constantly having to go back to where you left your bag to get a different camera, lens, your cleaning wipes, or what have you are over.
With MoneyMaker, you can carry all that (and more!) right on the multi-camera strap.
If that's not user-friendly, if it doesn't make taking photos easier, I don't know what does!
You Want Something Well Built
I've had plenty of straps and harnesses over the years, and nothing compares to the build quality of the MoneyMaker.
And I'm saying that as both a photographer and someone that likes to build things - this rig is impeccably designed and put together.
I have the Bridle Leather version of the MoneyMaker, and when I unboxed it, I was literally speechless. That's saying something because I always have something to say!
The leather is strong and durable, yet supple and waxy at the same time.
That means you have a camera system that is weather-resistant and will likely outlast the cameras and lenses you use the MoneyMaker to carry...
The MoneyMaker means business when it comes to the security of your gear, too.
Stainless steel hardware is used throughout, that way you don't have to worry about the metal components rusting over time and losing their integrity.
That includes the Camera HoldFast, which screws into the tripod mount on your camera for the ultimate in security. What's more, there are anchored D-rings and safety catches for double the safety as you carry your expensive gear.
In other words, the MoneyMaker is purpose-built with the safety of your gear and your comfort in mind!
See how hand tooled MoneyMakers are built in the video above by Holdfast.
You Want Something Comfortable
Whether you're a wedding photographer, a street photographer, a landscape photographer, or something in between, the grind of long days of shooting can get the best of you if you don't think about your comfort.
What better way to have a more comfortable shooting experience than by evenly distributing the weight of your cameras across both shoulders and your back?
With the Holdfast MoneyMaker, there's no pinching at the shoulders, no wiggling around of the strap as you walk, kneel, crouch, and bend.
Once you put this thing on, you'll know what a good fit is...
That's because, as I noted earlier, the MoneyMaker is made of strong, durable leather that's supple and waxy at the same time.
That means that it conforms to your body. Over the years, this thing will adapt to your form such that it fits like a glove.
And since there are small, medium, and large sizes - all of which also have adjustable straps to boot - you're sure to get a strap that feels like it was made specifically for your body.
The MoneyMaker isn't messing around, I'm telling you!
I can shoot all day long while carrying three camera bodies and lenses and a bag attached to my MoneyMaker, and at the end of the day, I don't have aches and pains like I would if I used the flimsy factory strap that came with my cameras.
Honestly, if I were a wedding or event photographer, the MoneyMaker would be the very first piece of gear I buy. It's that comfortable.
Wrapping It Up
User-friendly design, well-built, comfortable - these are the primary virtues of the Holdfast MoneyMaker.
It's an incredible photographer's tool, no doubt about it.
If you want to up your game, make it simpler to shoot, and give yourself the ability to carry your gear comfortably for hours on end, there is no better way to do so than with a MoneyMaker.
Take it from me, the moment you get one and slide it on, you'll be wondering why in the world you waited so long to buy one!