The search for a camera strap for my DSLR is over for good. Finally someone came up with something that is both comfortable to wear (especially important while traveling) and functional when it comes to actually taking photos. The strap is called Cinch and it is designed and made by Portland, Oregon-based Luma Labs. The key to what makes Cinch special is the ability to easily make the strap longer so you can quickly bring up your camera to take a picture — then tighten it all right back up and be on your way. The other huge plus is the fact that the design puts the camera in a perfect cradle while you are on the go. This is a very important aspect if you are walking around all day, because no one likes a camera impaling you in the side the whole time. Or maybe you do get down like that, though probably better if we don’t talk about it.

I recommend this strap even if you already have something you think is good. I guarantee the Cinch is better. And don’t worry, I’m not pumping this up because they gave me one for free. I own another strap from Luma Labs and when they did the pre-launch for the Cinch they offered a existing customers a chance to buy Cinch early as a sort of beta test and I went for it. I’m glad I did.

In my opinion, it’s hard to find good camera accessories period — let alone ones made in America. So hats off to Luma Labs for doing things right. [LUMA LABS]

* just ordered mine!