Taking Pictures While Hiking Made Easier

One of the parts of hiking with kids that’s really tough is that I seem to be always hauling way more than I plan to….which makes it especially difficult if I want to be taking pictures of any kind (which I do!)

Someone’s backpack they ditched early (though usually I am a big you-carry-your-gear-that-you-brought nazi), an extra water bottle, a baby on the front, a baby on the back, and a few ducklings following behind. Plus my camera hanging around my neck that honestly finally ends up annoying me enough that I give up and put it away.

This spring we splurged on a Fuji X-T10 (which I highly recommend, by the way) in the hopes that I could get better-than-iPhone photos without hauling the big SLR. Because, again, too.much.stuff. The purchase was worth every penny….but it is still one more thing to carry (albeit smaller).

So, I did some more digging and found truly one piece of gear that every person that hauls a camera while adventuring (or walking….) should own. Before I dive in, I have to disclose that I have literally been testing out this since February. In my opinion, WAY too long to not tell you about it, but I had a good reason: It works much better when I don’t have to carry a baby on my front too.

Without further adieu:

Peak Design CapturePRO Camera Clip

*you can purchase here on Amazon – thanks for clicking through our affiliate links!*

What it does:

• Safely holds your camera so it doesn’t bounce around
• Helps keep your camera easily accessible so you don’t miss a shot
• Keeps the weight of your camera off your neck

Who it’s for:

• Anyone carrying a camera they want access to
• If you want the ease of mind of an all-metal clip (opposed to their slightly less beefy Capture P.O.V. model)

Here’s why it’s so great: It clips directly on to your backpack shoulder strap (or belt, etc.) and then you can release it for a shot single-handedly (once you get good) by just the click of the button. The base can also then be used directly with a TriPod so no switching around bases.

So, when I had a baby in the carrier on my front, it worked best attached to my belt….but I usually had another pack on my back and so much going on, I just couldn’t test it properly (but, really, who does that!?!?)

It’s also important to note that the clip isn’t going to fit over a super huge strap (like the waist band of a pack or a super puffy and wide shoulder strap). Mine is often clipped to my Deuter Kid Carrier II or Air and it does perfectly fine. It works for straps less than 3″ wide and 1/2 inch thick.

 

Bottom Line: A great way to have your camera accessible and safe!

 

Some more from Peak Design:

I also wanted to quick mention that I have been testing out the Field Pouch too. It’s small, but great for throwing a couple camera items in and then clipping the CapturePRO on the outside of it. I wanted to use it as a primary case for my mirrorless…but found it wasn’t quite as secure as I wanted with a 18-55 lens on it.

I do, however, have high hopes for the Range Pouch (available for pre-order now).

Finally, the Slide Lite Strap works awesome both on a Mirrorless camera and on a pouch. Keeps camera safe, easy to remove or adjust and comfortable.

Be sure to watch Peak Design. They are continually rolling out really great gear for photographers (pro or amateur) in particular.

Per our request, Peak Design generously provided us this gear in order to facilitate this review.  However, as always, the opinions expressed here are completely and honestly our own. A few of these  links are affiliates.  Thank you so much for clicking through them to make your purchases – it helps offset the cost of this blog in a (VERY VERY) small way!

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