Should a sling strap attach to the tripod socket or the camera strap lugs?
Asked 11/21/2012
6 views
2 answers
0
I want to replace the neck strap on my Nikon D3200 with a shoulder sling strap. Some sling straps attach to the camera’s built-in strap lugs, while others screw into the tripod socket.
Which attachment point is generally better and safer? I use a Nikon D3200 with the 18-55mm kit lens and sometimes an SB-700 flash. I’d also like to know if there are practical downsides to using the tripod socket for a strap.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
2
Both are designed to hold the camera. Perhaps the tripod mount has an advantage since it is a single-point built for that purpose rather than two as for the strap eyelets. However, if it hold it holds!
Using tripod mount blocks the tripod socket which is an annoyance if you use a tripod at all. Even if you do not mind unscrewing the thing each time, there is a safety issue that you camera is un-strapped for a moment. I usually attach the camera to the tripod and then detach myself from the strap.
Even without a tripod if you happen to sometimes rest the camera on a flat surface to take long exposures, the straps which occupy the tripod mounts are problematic. You have to remove them if the camera is to stay level.
Also, if do not have an assistant for holding the flash for you, then you may want to use a flash-bracket which holds on to the tripod mount.
Pass-through mounts are uncentered which means your camera is not aligned with the optical axis when on a tripod. This will be an issue if you are panning for a panorama or while recording video. They also usually reduce the surface area that contacts against the tripod or quick-release plate, so you get less stability and more chances of shifts when the camera is not level.
Originally by user1620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1620
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Both attachment points are intended to support the camera, but the better choice depends on tradeoffs.
The strap lugs are purpose-built for carrying the camera and are the conservative choice. A sling that uses them avoids tying up the tripod socket and lets you place the camera on a tripod or flat surface without removing the strap.
Tripod-socket sling attachments can work, and the socket is certainly strong enough for normal tripod use, but several users have reported damage when the socket is used as a carrying point—especially because a sling can put pulling and twisting forces on it that differ from typical tripod loading. That concern seems greater on lighter bodies and when torque is increased.
So if your priority is safest, simplest everyday carrying, use a sling that attaches to the camera’s strap lugs. If you prefer a tripod-socket sling, choose a well-made system, be cautious about heavy or unbalanced setups, and remember it can be inconvenient if you also use a tripod.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI13y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
How can I attach a camera strap to the tripod socket on the bottom of my camera?
Is a DSLR tripod socket strong enough for a sling strap?
Sling strap options for rangefinder cameras that keep the tripod socket free
How can I quickly switch between a Nikon neck strap and a BlackRapid sling strap?
Can I use a non-floating neck strap with an underwater compact camera like the Olympus TG-3?