How to Measure a Camera Strap: Get the Right Length Every Time

by Dave Young

Getting a camera strap that actually fits sounds simple, but it's one of those things most people get wrong the first time. Too short and it digs into your neck. Too long and your camera is swinging around like a pendulum. Get it right, though, and you stop thinking about the strap entirely — which is exactly where you want to be.

Here's how to nail the length before you buy.

Why It's Worth Getting Right

A strap that doesn't fit your carry style will annoy you every single time you pick up your camera. It affects how quickly you can bring the camera to your eye, how comfortable you are after a few hours, and whether you actually want to take it out at all. The good news is it's easy to measure — you just need a few minutes and a piece of string.

Antique brown veg tan leather camera neck strap handmade in UK

The String Method (Most Accurate)

Forget tape measures and size charts for a moment. The most reliable way to find your ideal strap length is to mock it up with something you've already got — a piece of string, a shoelace, even a charging cable will do.

  1. Tie or clip the string to one camera lug.
  2. Put the camera on the way you actually carry it — neck, shoulder, or crossbody.
  3. Adjust the string until the camera sits exactly where you want it.
  4. Pinch the string at the other lug and mark that point.
  5. Lay it flat and measure.

That's your number. It sounds almost too simple, but it works because it accounts for your actual body, your actual carry style, and the way you move — not some average.

Rough Starting Points

If you'd rather start with a ballpark and adjust from there, these ranges work for most people:

Taller, broader, or carrying a heavier kit? Lean toward the longer end. Smaller frame or prefer the camera sitting higher? Go shorter.

Already Own a Strap That Works?

This is the easiest shortcut of all. If you've got a strap that mostly fits — even if it's a cheap kit strap — set it to the position you actually use, lay it flat, and measure end-to-end. Then just tell us: "I want it to match this length." Done.

Watch Out for How Makers Measure

This one catches people out. Some makers list the total tip-to-tip length; others list the usable adjustable range. The difference can be 10–20 cm, because the hardware, loops, and lug tabs all add length that you can't actually adjust. If you're ordering a leather or custom strap, it's always worth asking which measurement they're quoting.  We always measure the length of the leather strap excluding fittings.

Heavier Cameras Need a Little More Room

If you're shooting with a full-frame DSLR, a medium format body, or a big telephoto, give yourself a bit of extra length — especially for crossbody carry. A heavier camera needs more freedom of movement, and a strap that's slightly generous will feel far more comfortable over a long day than one that's pulled tight. Our Handmade Leather Camera Straps are built with exactly this kind of use in mind.

Adjustable or Fixed Length?

Most of our straps at 595strapco have an adjustable slider, so you've got some room to fine-tune once it arrives. If you're sharing a camera with someone else or you're not quite sure on your length, adjustable is the safer bet. Fixed-length straps have a cleaner, more minimal look — and if you know your number, they're a great choice. Take a look at our full range of Leather Camera Neck Straps and Leather Wrist Straps to find the right fit for how you shoot.

Not Sure? Just Ask.

We make straps for real cameras and real people, so if you're unsure, drop us a message. Tell us your camera, how you like to carry it, and your rough measurements — we'll point you in the right direction.

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