Is it safe to carry a small camera while running?
Asked 5/24/2016
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2 answers
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I sometimes want to take a small camera on a run, but I’m worried about the repeated jostling in a backpack. I’m not talking about a large kit—just compact cameras such as a Fuji X100T, Leica compact/rangefinder-style body, or Canon EOS M.
If the camera is protected and there are no other hard objects in the bag, is the normal bumping from running likely to damage the camera, lens mechanism, or internal parts? What’s the best way to pack it so it stays safe during a run?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
9
If it's bumping around you've packed it wrong, but it's highly unlikely to suffer.
For running with a backpack even more than for hiking, your load should be stable. This means the bag shouldn't be too big and should be full or strapped up tight. If you're planning to run, then stop and shoot for a few minutes, you might find yourself wanting an extra layer of clothing. So put the camera in a suitable pouch, wrap it in a jacket and put it in your bag.
Originally by user26575. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user26575
10y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For a small camera, normal running vibration is unlikely to cause damage if it’s packed properly. The bigger issue is usually poor packing: if the camera is bouncing around, the bag or load setup isn’t secure enough.
Use a backpack that fits snugly, keep the load stable, and avoid empty space that lets the camera move. Putting the camera in a padded pouch, or wrapping it in a sweatshirt/jacket inside the bag, will reduce jostling and impact. Also keep other hard objects away from it.
In general, compact and small interchangeable-lens cameras should tolerate this kind of movement reasonably well. A camera loosely knocking against your back every step is more likely to be uncomfortable for you than harmful to the camera.
So yes—bringing a small camera on a run is usually fine, as long as it’s immobilized and cushioned rather than allowed to bounce inside the pack.
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