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Many camera bags tend to be tedious if you’re a “run and gun” kind of photographer. This is where the camera holster comes in — it’s a great alternative when shooting events and wedding photography, or any type of photoshoot that requires you to be quick on your feet. Camera holsters are lightweight, easy to use, and provide super quick access to one or two cameras.
It can be hard to find a solid holster for your needs, but don’t fret — we’ve just done the research of the all-time best camera holsters that you should look at.
Before jumping into a list, here are...
Things to Consider
Size
Size is one of the deciding factors for any camera carry, and it’s no exception for a camera belt holster. A small camera holster bag is compact enough for a mirrorless or compact camera. Medium to large options are ideal for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or for accessories. A camera belt holster or clip like a Spider camera holster is handy for quick camera access without bags.
Weight
Not sure if you need a holster bag, a camera harness, or a camera belt holster? It depends on how lightweight you need your setup to be. Many event and wedding photographers prefer using a harness. But, belt attachments like the Spider camera holster are also popular. It allows them to grab their cameras fast and don’t have to deal with the extra weight of a bag. Because they are sleek and lightweight, they also fit inside any dedicated camera bag.
Weather Protection
Most outdoor photographers looking for a camera holster case also need weather protection. Some models like Cotton Carrier Skout will come with a rain cover. But that’s more of a plus. In this case, a weatherproof camera holster bag is the obvious choice. A dual camera holster, camera harness, or camera sling strap doesn't cover your gear. But if your camera has weather sealing, you may not even need a holster case. Belt attachments and camera clips like the Spider camera holster or Peak Design clip will do.
Durability
Durability is important for any kind of camera carry. This is especially for a leather camera holster harness. Belt attachments like the Spider camera holster also need to be sturdy. Your camera will be hanging from your straps or waist belts so they should be able to support it. Research well about the materials and safety features of holster straps or attachments. You don’t want your precious camera to swing around too much or drop during a shoot because of the poor build!
Quick Access
Quick access is among the top requirements of today’s photographers. Belt clips, harnesses, and utility belt holsters are especially designed for this. They include options like Spider camera holster and leather camera holster straps. Holster bags also have top loading, grab handles, or belt loops to provide quick access.
Style
A camera clip or belt holster like the Spider camera holster lets you carry one or two cameras on your hips. A belt style leather camera holster comes with a pouch for a small camera. These stylish options are great for events or urban photo walks. A camera holster bag has a more robust protection. So, it suits a travel or outdoor photographer better.
Gear
Camera bag holsters are excellent if you're carrying a minimal amount of gear around like one camera and maybe a pancake lens. If you're looking to carry more than that and upgrade your setup, we suggest grabbing the Voyager retro camera backpack which comes in canvas and (waterproof) tarpaulin material.
The camera bag can handle the toughest weather conditions and the mesh padding is extremely breathable. The clamshell opening back panel is ideal when you're traveling and is anti-theft to keep your gear safe and secure.
Keep in mind that this side access camera backpack makes it super convenient to grab your gear so you never miss another shot.
This pack always has detachable waist straps so you can easily add/remove them when needed.
Watch the video from below to get a complete breakdown of the functionality:
Now let's jump in!
13 Best Camera Holsters
- Holdfast Gear Money Maker Holster
- SpiderPro Single Camera System V2 Holster
- Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip V3
- Cotton Carrier Skout
- Manfrotto Advanced² Holster Bag M
- Manfrotto Street Camera Holster
- Lowepro Adventura TLZ 30 II
- Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW
- Think Tank Digital Holster 10 v2.0
- National Geographic Earth Explorer Camera Holster S
- Tamrac Jazz Zoom 23 Holster Bag v2.0
- AmazonBasics Black Holster Camera Case for DSLR Cameras
- Crumpler Triple A Toploader 150
1. Holdfast Gear Money Maker Holster
Pros: This leather camera holster is one of the stylish and sturdy options available. This is especially great for wedding photography and event photographers who use two or more cameras. It comes with an optional attachment that hangs between the two main straps. This allows you to carry an extra camera across your chest. This leather camera holster also provides an even weight distribution on your back. It's more functional than a strap and more flexible than a bag. It comes in both genuine leather and vegan leather. There are also three different sizes to accommodate all heights and broadness. When choosing one, the strap should fall around 4 inches below the armpit. This will keep the camera high on your body and ensure comfort.
Cons: This style may not be that useful outside events and weddings. Your camera is also exposed. So, you might not want to use this holster during treks and outdoor adventures.
Style: ★★★★★
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Holdfast Gear Money Maker Holster Quick Specs
- Price: $230 (Bridle Leather); $195 (Vegan Leather)
- External size: 1-1½ inches in width; three lengths available to accommodate different heights.
- What Fits: Two DSLR or mirrorless cameras with lenses attached
- Colors: Bridle Leather: Tan, Chestnut, Black Vegan Leather: Black, Brown, Desert Sand, Mint Green, Neon, Orange, Red, Gold, Purple, Light Blue, Royal Blue, Deep Blue, Grey, Hot Pink, and Copper
2. SpiderPro Single Camera System V2 Holster
Pros: This Spider camera holster is a popular example of the comfort and convenience of the utility belt style. It consists of three parts. The Pro2 Belt, which you adjust to your size, also has a sliding waist pad. The Pro2 Plate attaches to the tripod mount of your camera using the built-in allen wrench. Once you’ve connected both, you can slide your camera into the Pro Holster. Its quick draw locking system allows both quick access and security for your camera. As a plus, there are upgrades that allow you to expand your setup to hold two DSLR cameras and carry extra lenses or accessories. There’s also an Arca-Swiss compatible version that comes with a SpiderPro Clamp instead of the plate.
Cons: As with the Holdfast harness, this Spider camera holster doesn’t have a cover. So, it won’t protect your gear from the elements. Also, it may not be as stylish as some photographers would like.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★☆
SpiderPro Single Camera System V2 Holster Quick Specs
- Price: $150; $220 for the Arca-Swiss Compatible version
- External size: 28-50 in (belt length)
- Weight: 0.727 kg
- What Fits: A DSLR camera with lens attached
- Color: Black
3. Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip V3
Pros: This clip transforms any belt or strap (up to 2.5 in wide and 0.6 in thick) into a camera belt holster. It can carry up to 200 lbs of force. The Arca-Swiss style quick release plate provides quick access to your camera. It also doubles as a tripod mount in a pinch. These details make it the best camera belt holster attachment for many photographers. The latest version is also backwards-compatible with most Peak Design plates and products.
Cons: This camera belt holster clip is ideal for mirrorless cameras. Using it for a big camera or with a long lens attached may be a bit uncomfortable due to the weight and size.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Peak Design Capture Pro Camera Clip V3 Quick Specs
- Price: $69.95
- External size: 3.3 in x 1.6 in x 0.7 in (clip) ; 1.5 in x 1.5 in x 0.3 in (plate)
- Weight: 0.7 kg (clip); 0.14 kg (plate)
- What Fits: 1 DSLR or mirrorless camera with lens
- Color: Black, Silver
4. Cotton Carrier Skout
Pros: This sturdy camera holster is a good option for outdoor photographers. With its unique design, your camera won’t swing around during hikes, treks, and bike rides. It has a Twist & Lock system that holds your camera secure. There's also a quick release tether that prevents accidental drops. It also comes with a durable aluminum mounting hub. A weather cover is also included for added protection.
Cons: You can only wear this as a sling over your shoulder and chest. So, it may not be the best option if you want a camera holster that also doubles as a camera belt holster. It’s also geared towards outdoor photographers who travel with a single camera. So, the style may not be best for wedding or event photographers who use two or more cameras.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Cotton Carrier Skout Quick Specs
- Price: $79
- External size: N/A
- Weight: 0.2155 kg (Skout); 0.016 kg (Quick Release Safety Tether); 0.0205 kg (Camera Hardware)
- What Fits: A DSLR or mirrorless camera
- Color: Realtree Xtra Camo, Charcoal Grey
5. Manfrotto Advanced2 Holster
Pros: More keen on camera holster bags for their extra protection? Here’s one of the best options to consider from one of the popular toploaders by Manfrotto. It comes in three sizes to accommodate cameras of all sizes. The smallest best fits a compact camera with a kit lens attached. The biggest is great for a DSLR with a 70-200mm lens. Don’t feel like using it as a sling? Remove the padded straps and use the belt loops instead. Other details include an external tripod connection, water-repellent fabric, and slip-on rain cover.
Cons: The biggest option doesn’t look that comfortable as a camera belt holster. This is especially the case for heavy camera and lens combos. There’s also only one zip closure instead of two, so camera access may not be as fast for some photographers. Also, the only new feature compared to the old model is the tripod connection.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Manfrotto Advanced2 Holster Quick Specs
- Price: $39.99 for Small; $44,99 for Medium; S49.99 for Large
- External size: 6.69 in x 4.92 in x 9.45 in for Small; 6.69 in x 4.33 in x 10.43 in for Medium; 7.48 in x 5.31 in x 12.99 in for Large
- Weight: 0.25 kg
- What Fits: A camera with lens attached, a small tripod
- Color: Black
6. Manfrotto Street Camera Holster
Pros: Looking for a lightweight and ergonomic camera holster bag? This is one of the more “stealthy” options. It’s a compact and simple sling or camera belt holster ideal for street photographers. It fits a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a lens attached. The two-zip, top loading closure ensures quick camera access. The water-repellent nylon and synthetic fabric construction also provides excellent protection. It also includes a top handle for extra versatility. The padded removable shoulder strap ensures comfort.
Cons: Not a fan of the olive green-black colorway? Unfortunately, other color options don’t seem to be available anymore.
Style: ★★★★☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Manfrotto Street Camera Holster Quick Specs
- Price: $38
- External size: 7.09 in x 5.91 in x 5.71 in
- Weight: 0.3 kg
- What Fits: A mirrorless or DSLR camera with lens attached
- Color: Olive/Black
7. Lowepro Adventura TLZ 30 II
Pros: This top loading camera holster bag is for quick access during your trips. It can fit a medium-sized DSLR with a kit lens attached, as well as accessories and small items. For small mirrorless cameras, there’s also the Adventura TLZ 20 II. The durable, molded base ensures your gear stays dry and protected from impact. You can also wear this as a waist holster pack. It also has a top handle, an adjustable and removable padded strap, and a convenient belt loop.
Cons: Because of the tight fit, you won’t be able to use longer lenses with this holster bag. It can also be difficult to remove and refit with the lens attached to the camera.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Lowepro Adventura TLZ 30 II Quick Specs
- Price: $29.74
- External size: 6.93 in x 4.65 in x 8.7 in
- Weight: 0.3 kg
- What Fits: A DSLR with attached kit lens, small accessories
- Color: Black
8. Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW II
Pros: This top loading camera holster benefits pro outdoor photographers. It’s big enough for a pro DSLR with grip and a 70-200mm lens attached. It provides ample protection with padding and a waterproof cover. It provides the flexibility and agility requirements required by wildlife and adventure photographers. Two straps allow four ways to carry the case: shoulder bag, holster style, belt bag, and chest harness. An all-weather cover is also included for extra protection against the elements. You can configure the bag to your gear with the padded interior dividers. There are also zipped pockets for your other essentials and small accessories. The Slip Lock attachment transforms this holster bag into a modular carry. This setup accommodates for lens cases, water bottle holders, and other accessories.Cons: The older, non-“Pro” Lowepro Toploader model had two dual Slip Lock attachments. If you found that useful, you’ll only find one in this model. The carry handle at the back is also not as thick and comfortable compared to the previous models.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★★
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW Quick Specs
- Price: $70
- External size: 7.48 in x 8.67 in x 12.68 in
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- What Fits: A pro DSLR with 70mm f2.8 lens attached, small accessories
- Color: Black
9. Think Tank Digital Holster 10 v2.0
Pros: Since this holster bag is available in seven sizes, you can be sure that there’s one that will fit your gear best. The ‘10’ model is versatile enough to accommodate a compact camera or small DSLR with a zoom kit lens. Are you shooting outdoors in unpredictable weather? The exterior has a durable water-repellent coating, but the bag also comes with a rain cover. It also has a grab handle for an extra carry option. The extending bottom can accommodate longer lenses. There are also adjustable and removable dividers and provisions for storing accessories.
Cons: Some users reported that the extending bottom only has a thin padding. This feature is only for the lens hood attached. Thicker padding will make it difficult to retract. Take note of this detail if you want to use this camera holster bag with a long lens.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Think Tank Digital Holster 10 v2.0 Quick Specs
- Price: $57.75
- External size: 6.8 in x 7.3 - 10.3 in x 5 in
- Weight: 0.4 kg
- What Fits: A compact DSLR or larger mirrorless camera with lens attached
- Color: Black
10. National Geographic Earth Explorer Camera Holster S
Pros: Channel your inner National Geographic explorer with this compact camera holster! We can definitely see why this canvas bag is a good choice for something simple and basic. It sports the classic National Geographic branding and cool olive green color. The removable divider allows for configuring the main compartment. Quick access to your camera is through the zip-sealed flap. There’s also an extra flap over it for extra protection. The front zippered pocket can also store memory cards and extra batteries.
Cons: You can’t wear this as a holster belt bag (the non-removable straps are a giveaway). It also doesn’t provide water-repellent or all-weather protection.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
National Geographic Earth Explorer Camera Holster S Quick Specs
- Price: $31.88
- External size: 4.33 in 3.54 x in x 5.12 in
- Weight: 0.32 kg
- What Fits: A small DSLR or mirrorless camera with lens, an extra lens, some accessories
- Color: Khaki
11. Tamrac Jazz Zoom 23 Holster Bag v2.0
Pros: Looking for a basic camera holster for an affordable price? This top loading bag is a lightweight and compact option for compact cameras. But it’s also possible to fit a small DSLR with an 18-55mm kit lens (or any lens of the same size). Since it’s inexpensive, it’s a good choice for those who want to see first if this style is best for their needs. The interior has enough room to fit a camera with a lens attached. But you can also store small items and accessories in the two mesh side pockets. It also has a top grab handle as an extra carry option.
Cons: This camera holster case also doesn’t have a belt loop so you can’t carry it around your waist. It also doesn’t have a waterproof build or all-weather protection.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★★☆
Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Tamrac Jazz Zoom 23 Holster Bag v2.0 Quick Specs
- Price: $26.99
- External size: 6 in x 4.5 in x 6. in
- Weight: 0.13 kg
- What Fits: A mirrorless camera with up to 4 inches lens attached
- Color: Black
12. AmazonBasics Holster Camera Case for DSLR Cameras
Pros: This affordable camera holster case fits most DSLRs with a zoom lens attached. There are also three accessory sections for essentials and personal items. Its adjustable shoulder strap is also padded for comfort. A nice touch is the waterproof EVA base that wraps around the side for around an inch. It protects not only against wet surfaces but also bumps and falls. It also allows the bag to stand upright. These make it a good basic case for travel so you never miss a shot during your adventures.
Cons: The strap isn’t the best quality and the fittings are plastic. It also doesn’t have a belt loop so you’re limited to carrying it as a cross-body sling or shoulder holster.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
AmazonBasics Holster Camera Case for DSLR Cameras Quick Specs
- Price: $16.99
- External size: 6.9 in x 6.3 in x 9 in
- Weight: 0.40 kg
- What Fits: Most DSLR cameras with a zoom lens attached (up to 110mm)
- Color: Black
13. Crumpler Triple A Toploader 150
Pros: Here’s another camera holster for compact cameras and small DSLRs with a kit lens. This lightweight and sturdy option is good for a beginner's holster bag. It has water-resistant construction to keep your camera protected. You can configure it to your gear with the adjustable and removable dividers. The top grab handle make it easy to carry. The shoulder strap is removable and adjustable. Store small items and accessories in the elastic mesh pockets on the sides. There’s also a belt loop on the back so you can also wear it as a waist holster.
Cons: It's a holster bag for beginners. So it doesn’t have details and extra functionalities as pricier or more advanced options. It has regular nylon straps, plastic attachments, and minimal padding.
Style: ★★★☆☆
Build: ★★★☆☆
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Value: ★★★☆☆
Overall: ★★★☆☆
Crumpler Triple A Toploader 150 Quick Specs
- Price: $40.68
- External size: 6.30 in x 6.69 in x 3.74 in
- Weight: 0.179 kg
- Color: Tactical Green, Black, Red
The Best Camera Pouches for Photographers
Camera holsters provide the fastest access to your gear. Some models also double as portable sling bags, strap carry, and belt bags. This makes them versatile alternatives to conventional camera bags. If you’ve used any of the holsters on this list, we’d love to hear what you think in the comments below!
Looking for other compact carrying options? We also have camera pouch recommendations for your point and shoot cameras!
