Leica M9 into the wild

[kloudags]

Hi

Looking a bit all around, I have a hard time finding info on the subject:
I'm planning a three weeks trip in Central America in the dry season, and I would like to know which gear you'd suggest to take along.

I was looking for a neoprene wrist strap to shoot the Leica M9 with, but all I can find are leather ones (good looking, and sturdy), which I'm afraid won't like the humidity and my sweat (no need for a black wrist after using the camera all day).

Also, I usually take my Domke bags to carry the camera and lenses, but would you advise on some weather proof bags? Pouches included.

Thanks for your feedback on that.

 

[Jim Edmond]

I have one of these: http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-camera-field-accessories/170232-crumpler-noose-review.html

It's a bit bulky, but is comfortable and works well. Looking forward to seeing your photos!

 

[Rob-F]

Since you are already accustomed to the brand, maybe the Domke waxwear bags would suit you. Also, some people just spray their regular Domke bags with Nikwax from the outdoor store.

 

[jamesbf]

I suggest a neck strap or shoulder strap. Do you really want to be carrying a relatively heavy camera in your hand all day long? I've been shooting with a wrist strap for 2 years, finally a couple months ago I switched up for a long shoulder strap and I feel like I'm in heaven.

 

[kloudags]

I have one of these: http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-camera-field-accessories/170232-crumpler-noose-review.html

It's a bit bulky, but is comfortable and works well. Looking forward to seeing your photos!

Hey Jim,

Thanks for the feedback on that wrist strap, but seems hard to attach to the M9 as such no?

 

[kloudags]

I suggest a neck strap or shoulder strap. Do you really want to be carrying a relatively heavy camera in your hand all day long? I've been shooting with a wrist strap for 2 years, finally a couple months ago I switched up for a long shoulder strap and I feel like I'm in heaven.

I've already got the leather neck strap from Luigi on the M9.
The only thing is that I'm not too comfortable wearing that while sweating and walking in nature, branches and dust all around. Got the feeling the black leather color might not sustain humidity and sweat.

I'm really open to suggestions here, cause I won't have a "street" use of the camera, and I want to be able to quickly shift between the wrist to the shoulder, and not worry about slowly destroying my strap...

The wrist strap could be incorporated in a 3 in 1 system (shoulder + neck) as well... if that's possible!

 

[kloudags]

Since you are already accustomed to the brand, maybe the Domke waxwear bags would suit you. Also, some people just spray their regular Domke bags with Nikwax from the outdoor store.

Hi Rob,

Nice suggestion indeed. The Nikwax is a keeper! Thanks!

 

[Godfrey]

I'd go with a Street Strap or Lance neckstrap.

This braided nylon rope type of strap is more comfortable, doesn't get twisted up, and is more durable in humid environments than leather. It also works beautifully as a wrist strap.

I have a Lance strap on my CL and a Street Strap on my X2. Both work extremely well, the Lance is a little thicker and longer, the SS a bit softer and more supple. (The silk A&A strap which inspires this design is about twice or three times the money.)

 

[jaapv]

It is essential to have a strap that is long enough to be worn diagonally. In the wild and hiking nothing is worse than a camera that bounces around, gets caught in branches, slips from your shoulder, pulls down your neck, etc.

 

[Godfrey]

It is essential to have a strap that is long enough to be worn diagonally. In the wild and hiking nothing is worse than a camera that bounces around, gets caught in branches, slips from your shoulder, pulls down your neck, etc.

Lance Straps can be ordered in several different lengths, so you can buy the length that's tailored to your carry desire.

The Street Strap is available in just one length, but it's long enough for a (somewhat snug on my body) bandolier carry style.

G

 

[icebear]

I use a DIY "sling" a double finger loop that attaches to the strap lug on the right. Middle and ring finger go through the two loops and the index finger is free to reach the shutter. You basically attach you hand to the camera or vice versa. There is no chance for accidentally dropping it but you have to fiddle a little to get on/off and then you put it in your bag.
Straps to make it yourself and adjust to the proper length to give you just enough freedom can be found in every outdoor store. I made one special edition that is loose enough that I can now use it even with thin gloves on in freezing conditions.
I never used a wrist strap but had some basic cotton Voigtlander neck straps that I tied around my wrist to shoot but I was usually not carrying the camera around the neck. So for me the finger loops are the best choice.

 

[Out to Lunch]

A neoprene/tropics combination is a no no. I'd go for a Domke type of strap.

 

[kshapero]

ditto on the Lance neckstrap.

 

[maggieo]

It is essential to have a strap that is long enough to be worn diagonally. In the wild and hiking nothing is worse than a camera that bounces around, gets caught in branches, slips from your shoulder, pulls down your neck, etc.

This. And the Leica strap that came with the camera is perfect for this use. I installed mine with the nubs on the outside, to make swinging the camera around to my eye easier.

 

[Richard G]

It is essential to have a strap that is long enough to be worn diagonally. In the wild and hiking nothing is worse than a camera that bounces around, gets caught in branches, slips from your shoulder, pulls down your neck, etc.

And for uneven ground you need your hands and arms free ideally for good balance. I carry my cameras with the neck strap around my wrist, but would definitely wear it long and diagonal in tough terrain.

 

[Jim Edmond]

Hey Jim,

Thanks for the feedback on that wrist strap, but seems hard to attach to the M9 as such no?

I use it on an M5 with it's different type of attachment. But, you can trim the strap and attach it to the lug with a D-ring (same as a neck strap).

 

[jaapv]

This. And the Leica strap that came with the camera is perfect for this use. I installed mine with the nubs on the outside, to make swinging the camera around to my eye easier.

Depends on your size. It is far too short for me.

 

[sepiareverb]

Domke gripper strap with swivels. No tangling, narrow cotton strap on your neck. Comes in tan, can be washed when it starts to reek. Lasts for years and years and years. I've got one I've been using for at least ten years.

 

[kloudags]

Domke gripper strap with swivels. No tangling, narrow cotton strap on your neck. Comes in tan, can be washed when it starts to reek. Lasts for years and years and years. I've got one I've been using for at least ten years.

That Domke Gripper Strap with Swivel sounds very good to me. I've ordered one to check it out. Thanks!

 

[kloudags]

Anyone heard of a case for the M9 that is not leather? Silicon or hard casing ?