Black Rapid RS 7 Camera Strap Review

Words by Emma kay

 

BlackRapid camera straps are an innovative way to carry your camera, safe in the knowledge that it cannot be dropped. Even if you do let go of it, the camera is securely screwed in to the adapter on the Black Rapid strap, meaning that it will not hit the floor. It is pricey though, at around £45

BlackRapid RS7: Features

The strap features a clip for easily getting it on and off, adjustable length, 2 clips to secure the camera in place when you are not using it, and a comfy shoulder strap, which features a small pocket for memory cards.

Easy to adjust and use, these straps come in two main designs, the Curve, which is unisex and versatile, and the Women's floral the RS W1, which is designed specially with women in mind for a better fit. It also features a pretty design on the strap.

The straps also have their own accessories, called Mods, which make useful editions to the straps. These include the Brad, which is a strap worn under the arm to keep your RS7 Camera strap in place, and the Joey, a Velcro fasten pocket designed for an iPod or mobile phone.

The Brad really does help when carrying a DSLR with the strap. It balances the weight of the camera between it and the big strap, and also keeps the strap in place when carrying a camera. It certainly feels secure, if not a little like a child's reins. It definitely feels a lot more comfortable than having a hefty DSLR hanging around your neck.



The Joey, when placed correctly just under the padded part of the strap on the front is easy to fit, and is ideal for easy access to your iPod or mobile.

BlackRapid RS7: Performance

The one problem with this system is getting out of it- it can be tricky to undo the clip as it is supposed to be worn on the back of the strap. It is increasingly tricky to get out of with the addition of the Brad, which stops you being able to simply pull the strap over your head.

The other thing is that although the makes it very easy to take a picture with your camera, it also makes it very easy to accidentally swing your camera into something/ catch it on a narrow doorway when it is just dangling there by your side with no protection. This of course is not an issue if you are using the system in open areas.

If you are going to use this system often, it might be wise to invest in some form of shock absorbent cover or case for your camera. The alternative, of course, is to take a DSLR bag with you as well, which sort of defeats the point of the strap, because if you're going to take the bag, you may as well just use your neck strap.

BlackRapid RS7: Verdict

Despite the fact that it is difficult to get off, which does not really effect its performance as a camera strap, it is a very good piece of kit for the money, £45. There are alternatives that do the same thing for cheaper, such as the Pap Strap, but these are not as feature packed. Overall, the strap is a very good idea and is ideal for day trips when you will never know if a great photo opportunity is just around the corner.

FEATURES
HANDLING
PERFORMANCE
VALUE
OVERALL

  Comfy
Easy to use
Ultra quick photo taking

BlackRapid RS7 Cons:
Difficult to get on and off, especially with Brad attached
Could lead to you damaging your camera