Etsy

I took a photography class last weekend where it was drilled into me that camera straps are necessary. Being of the "I don't need one since I wont ever drop my fancy camera" mentality, what really stuck was the instructor's point that you never drop your camera on purpose. So, okay, I get it, but don't think for a second I am going to be caught dead in that strap that is branded with the Canon logo up and down. Noooooo thank you. I want something unique.

So on the hunt for a cute camera strap, Google pointed me toward a site I hadn't heard of called Etsy. How did I not know it existed?!? This is basically an online craft fair, being vendors from around the world together in the spirit of cherishing the handmade item. Wikipedia calls it a mix between Amazon, Ebay and your grandmother's basement. =) Cute, I know, but this is a profitable business, based in Brooklyn, NY.

I found dozens of online vendors selling their personalized version of a camera strap. No two alike, I figured this was the right place for me. After searching all the options, I settled on one vendor and chose my new strap that screams me. Below are some samplings of her work:

[so with my penchant for polka dots, I, of course, favor the last option]

I also liked this designer's stuff, but ultimately settled on the designer whose pictures I show because her straps feature quick release squeeze buckles to remove the strap for around the house.

I am still contemplating purchasing fabric from 1154 LILL Studio, since I adore their designs. I am waiting to hear if their Scandinavian Floral fabric (above) is still available by the yard. It would be my first choice!! Then I can truly have a custom strap made! So far I can only find it as a headband...