The right carrying devices for cameras and accessories will no doubt help photographers avoid potential problems that come from putting excessive weight on their back and shoulders. DSLRs are heavy and cumbersome. Add to that the number of accessories you have to carry while on location for a photoshoot and you might end up with a painful back and sore shoulders.
It is not uncommon for a wedding or event shoot to go on for an entire day. Carrying two DSLRs on straps on your neck or shoulders is almost guaranteed to cause some stress or damage to your back, neck or shoulders, especially if you have to do this daily over a period of time.
Or imagine going on a long hike to get some scenic or wildlife photos. With all the equipment you are bringing, even if you pack lightly, the walk and the weight of the heavy cameras will still cause discomfort to your shoulder or neck. There are lightweight gears available that you can opt for but those usually compromise convenience or functionality. If you can find the right devices to help your carry your equipment, wouldn’t that be better?
That said, here are some tips and devices that can help you avoid back and shoulder injuries when you go on a photoshoot.
- Instead of carrying a shoulder bag, use a backpack. You don’t have to enjoy the ease that shoulder bags bring at the expense of your shoulders and back. Using a backpack spreads the weight that you carry evenly on your shoulders. For convenience, the SpiderLight backpacker kit allows you to mount your camera on the belt or backpack strap. You will have easy access to your equipment without worrying about pain on one shoulder after the shoot.
- Ditch the neck strap, opt for a holster set. If you don’t know it yet, using a neck strap for your camera or lenses is not the best idea if you want to have a long and healthy professional (photographer) life. Straps often get in the way of shoots but more importantly, they put you at risk of neck or spine injuries, especially if you have to carry heavy camera bodies for long hours. What you can do instead is use a carrying system like the SpiderPro camera systems and lens pouches that let you carry your DSLRs and lenses right on your hip, taking away the stress from your shoulders and back. They allow for safe and comfortable carrying with the convenience of being able to draw your camera or change lenses quickly.
- Carry your accessories at the back or at the hip and not on one shoulder only. We can sometimes see photographers slinging their tripods over one shoulder. Stop putting too much strain on this part of your body. Try carrying your accessories, especially your tripod, on the hip with the Tripod Carrier Kit. You can also do the same with your phone and water bottle for easy access. The Utility Pouch and Water Bottle Holder helps you do this easily.
- Practice good body mechanics. With the amount of weight being carried in outdoor photography, it is not surprising how many photographers end up with body injuries, especially where the back is concerned. However, it can be prevented with the right carrying devices and proper body mechanics. For example, always lift with your knees and not your back, or bend your knees if you need to pick something up.
- Take a break and do some stretching. It is not advisable to work on something continuously for hours. This is quite true for photography, where you have to take shots in different positions and sometimes standing for quite a while. Give yourself a break. Stretch those muscles and get your blood flowing properly.
- Find the right office chair. After a shoot, you will definitely spend a great deal of time looking through your shots, which can be in the hundreds. Don’t do this hunched in a position that will leave you with a back ache. Invest in a quality chair that can be adjusted and turned into several positions. And make sure the wheels can be locked.
Spider Holster develops ergonomic devices with the aim of helping photographers (professionals, prosumers and anywhere in between) stay healthy physically over the course of their photography life. With tools such as the SpiderPro camera systems, SpiderLight backpacker kit and Spider Monkey accessories, you will be able to enjoy your craft more since you can now do your shoots with minimal discomfort or potential grave injuries that might affect the longevity of your professional life.