The Decisive Moment
Some consider photography the simple capturing of a moment. Others consider it the art of a moment and the expression that lies therein. I’m often asked how I capture some of the frames that I find out in public. Patience is often my answer, but I think the real truth, and the thing I will say in the future, is that I always have my camera on me. When I’m on a walk with my wife and my dog, when I’m heading to work, when I’m walking around downtown, when I’m going to the farmer’s market, I have my camera around my neck. It is always ready and set to the setting I would need to get the right photo. Patience is key, but a lot of work goes into the ability to be patient. My advice to anyone starting out with photography and to those looking to get better, get a strap you like and make it fun to have your camera on your ALWAYS. You’d be amazed how much art is around you every second of every day when you simply give yourself the opportunity to capture it. Note: having my actual camera on me at all times gets me into the mindset of creating photographs rather than just capturing them. Shooting on your phone is a very real craft and I wildly respect those that choose to shoot on your phones.
Here are some quick links to straps that make photography fun:
Josh Bird: This is my friend and he makes fantastic custom leather straps. He’s quick and passionate. I have two of his straps in full use right now and will use them for years and years.
Long Weekend Gear: This is a Willem Verbeek collection of straps (and other goodies) that are exceptional. I’ve never tried them, but I will be getting some in the near future.
Moment: Classic, useful, convenient. Can’t go wrong with Moment gear.
Sailer Strap: The straps are visually interesting. BONUS - they are made out of sailing ropes. Though, I don’t know if they are recycled sailing ropes are ropes made specifically for this use.
Peak Design: This is last on my list, but a very reliable option. They are pricier, but I use these straps for all of my professional work. They make shooting big events and project easy and unobtrusive.
