First world problems

So, let us assume that you have gradually managed to save up for a few bigger lenses for your DSLR after nearly 2 years on blip, and that you've started to notice that the strap supplied by the manufacturer really doesn't work that well with any lens that is a bit heavier than a kit lens.  A search of the internet reveals that there are surprisingly few camera strap solutions out there.  

Now, please do not get me wrong, I do understand that this is very much a first world problem and that the sort of lenses that start being uncomfortable on a standard camera strap do not feature for many photographers.  I also appreciate that talented photographers take brilliant shots without the need for expensive and heavy bits of glass, metal and plastic at all. I also appreciate that there are other camera systems out there that produce great results with suites of glass, metal and plastic.

But, if you are still with me at this point, there seem to be two approaches to the problem: the first utilises the existing strap retention points on the camera, and the second utilises the tripod mount connection.  It is this second approach that seems to be the most popular nowadays with full sized DSLR users.

Now, I do understand that many people just do not use tripods, advances in digital photography mean that very acceptable hand held results are achievable.  But some of us still do like to use them occasionally.  Unfortunately, if you have bought a tripod head that uses a quick release plate then the tripod mount option becomes, well, let us just say, "a little more difficult".  You do not really want to have to unscrew the strap retention system and then screw in the quick release plate to use the tripod, not least as this may involve the use of tools ... it sort of makes a mockery of the quick release system in the first place.

So, what you really need, is a gizmo that you can attach to your camera strap  and which you can then attach to your quick release plate.  In my case it looks rather like today's shot and can be quickly released through the use of the locking lever.  Its big and its ugly (well at least it is to a non-engineer's eyes) ... but it works.