Camera holster is very similar to the camera pouch, yet it allows you to take advantage of more space due to its size. While not as attractive as a simple camera pouch, this boy can store smaller DSLRs, for example – Canon EOS Rebel SL1. The camera holster is built in a way that lets you quickly draw the camera and shoot within a matter of seconds, as the camera grip is always within reach. The great thing about this type of camera bag is that it also has additional pockets that let you store anything that might fit in it, and it doesn’t have to be any of your photography gear.
If you want to store a lens inside, that’s totally possible and okay. Even a smaller DSLR coupled with a reasonably-sized lens can fit easily.
Here is our full list of the best photography camera holsters:
1. Mindshift Gear Multi-Mount Holster 20
2. Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW
5. Pascafe Camsafe V2 Anti-Theft Camera Holster
6. Canon Zoom Pack 1000 Camera Holster
Review: 6 Best Photography Camera Holsters
1. Mindshift Gear Multi-Mount Holster 20
- Multi-Mount offers diversity with five key mounting configurations: Shoulder, Front, Chest, Pack and Belt
- Elements Barrier under zipper and seam-sealed rain cover block unnecessary elements from reaching equipment
- Expandable front pocket for essentials includes organizer pocket, two separate loops for memory card holder and keys, and double sliders (Speedlight flash or tabletop tripod on the 30 and 50 sizes)
The holster from Mindshift Gear comes in a beautiful green color that makes it stand out among the typical black holsters. Since this is a bit larger holster, it comes at a higher price, which is a bit atypical for the camera holster. Still, this one can pack in a professional DSLR camera and a lens or two, depending on the size.
Even though it can pack a lens, we were a bit disappointed with the lack of accessory departments. On the brighter side, you have a front pocket that can fit some of your accessories. The build quality is just awesome and it really has a premium feel to it.
The manufacturer lets you choose different sizes – 10, 20, 30, and 50. However, we decided to present to you the size 20, since it offers the best bang for your buck. If you need a bigger size, you’ll need to pay a bit more and for that price, you can get yourself a quality backpack, which can fit much more photography gear.
Check out the current price for Mindshift Gear Multi-Mount Holster 20 on Amazon.
2. Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW
- Fits a Pro DSLR with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached and small accessories
- Four wearing options allow for tremendous freedom of movement: over the shoulder, holster style, as a chest harness, or at the waist using your own belt or webbing
- Bag includes 2 straps to configure in multiple ways: a padded shoulder strap and secondary strap - both with secure snap hooks
Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW is one of the largest camera holsters we’ve seen. It looks similar to a backpack, yet the manufacturer says it’s a holster, so let’s call it like that. The reason this holster is so awesome is that it can fit a professional DSLR with a huge 70-200mm lens, alongside with small accessories.
Technically, you can fit in a gigantic telephoto lens inside. This holster is so versatile that it lets you wear it over the shoulder, like a chest harness, like a holster, and around the waist, with your own belt. Basically, you get a 4-in-1 product.
To make things better, Toploader Pro 75 AW has a 360-degree all-weather AW cover, making your photography gear safe and sound inside. And if you hate zipping to close the bag, you can always use the quick-release buckle included with this camera holster. Overall, it’s one of the best purchases and best value among the camera holsters.
Check out the current price for Lowepro Toploader Pro 75 AW on Amazon.
3. AmazonBasics Black
- Fits a Pro DSLR with 70-200mm f/2.8 lens attached and small accessories
- Four wearing options allow for tremendous freedom of movement: over the shoulder, holster style, as a chest harness, or at the waist using your own belt or webbing
- Bag includes 2 straps to configure in multiple ways: a padded shoulder strap and secondary strap - both with secure snap hooks
Nowadays, you can buy a quality camera holster for a low amount of money, and the prime example is AmazonBasics Black camera holster. On the outside, the holster won’t reinvent the wheel. It looks similar to a backpack and with its black color, it won’t attract attention too much if that’s what you want. However, the great feature of this holster is that it can fit a DSLR camera, with a zoom lens attached.
The maximum lens dimensions are under 110 millimeters, which is okay, considering the price. AmazinBasics also included three compartments for your accessories, alongside 2 dedicated slots for SD cards.
Inside the holster, we have an EVA base, which serves as a protection from water primarily. The second function is to help the bag stand straight, rather than falling when you leave it on the ground or the bench. AmazonBasics did a really good job and we recommend this holster if you’re low on budget.
Check out the current price for AmazonBasics Black on Amazon.
4. USA Gear FlexArmor
- PROTECT YOUR DSLR CAMERA with this form-fitting neoprene case that cushions your camera from bumps and scratches. The case allows you to easily insert and remove your camera from your backpack or bag
- CARRY YOUR CAMERA WITH EASE using the matching camera strap (not included) that works with the case. The case conforms to the shape of your camera and standard-sized lens for a snug fit.
- SECURE AND STRONG hook and loop connector strap allows you to attach the case to your belt loop while you are using your camera. *Not meant to hold the weight of your camera*
USA Gear Flex Armor represents a fine deal for those who want an affordable camera holster. Design-wise, there aren’t surprises. It’s a classic camera holster that can pack a bigger DSLR camera, alongside two lenses. However, you’ll have to compromise a bit if you want to stuff in some bigger lenses.
On the outside, we have an amazing build quality that has padding and neoprene protection. This means that your holster will be protected from the rain, although the manufacturer doesn’t say that directly. The reinforced stitching will help the holster to last a bit longer than the holsters with non-reinforced stitching.
What about additional compartments then? Well, it’s a holster so we have to have modest expectations. On the back, there is an additional compartment but it isn’t able to store an additional lens. Instead, it acts as a pocket, letting you store very small accessories or something that isn’t related to photography. As expected, the storage isn’t huge but at this price, we can’t be harsh.
Check out the current price for USA Gear FlexArmor on Amazon.
5. Pascafe Camsafe V2 Anti-Theft Camera Holster
- Comfortable, durable, lightweight camera holster with anti-theft technology to protect your gear and irreplaceable memories
- Lightweight, hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into fabric helps protect against slash-and-run theft
- Adjustable wire-reinforced Carrysafe Slashguard Strap helps prevent cut-and-run theft; smart zipper security attaches zipper pullers to discreet hooks
Pascafe Camsafe holster is really cheap yet gives us some things to admire. In terms of design, it looks modern. The nice black color coupled with the Pascafe logo on the side, makes this bag look really refined. One thing to notice is the thick shoulder strap that comes with high-quality padding. Carrying this holster around is bliss – it’s comfortable and won’t make your shoulders hurt.
As for the capacity, it can pack a bigger DSLR with the lens attached and on top of that, we have additional compartments. The compartments are located on the flap itself and they let you pack in a smaller tablet, smartphone or any kind of accessory you need – except the lens.
It’s pretty impressive how a holster this small can give us storage this big. But, it’s all about the organization inside. Aside from the pockets we mentioned, there’s also a pocket separated by mesh, in which you can store smaller accessories or perhaps a small piece of packed food. This holster is made for carrying a medium-sized camera inside. The compromises need to be made but that’s not fair to cry about when you see the price. That’s a steal-deal, my friends!
Check out the current price for Pascafe Camsafe V2 Anti-Theft Camera Holster on Amazon.
6. Canon Zoom Pack 1000 Camera Holster
- Holster-style camera bag with weather-proof exterior
- Touch Fastened Closure
- Interior Padding for Cushioning
Aside from displaying their craftsmanship in the high-end DSLRs, Canon also makes more affordable camera holsters. This time, it’s Zoom Pack 1000 camera holster from the renewed manufacturer. This holster won’t offer you a ton of storage but it will offer a weatherproof design. Yes, this means that your beautiful Canon holster won’t make your photography gear drenched inside. Speaking of gear, you won’t be able to pack in tons of it. One DSLR camera with the smaller lens attached will almost fill the holster to the maximum.
We like how Canon implemented the additional compartments here. On the front, you have a small pocket that’s able to fit a smartphone or something that’s similar in size. Opening up the upper flap lets you access one additional compartment.
The interior is padding-rich, allowing your gear to safely sink in and avoid damage. Despite having a simple design, we can’t help but praise it.
Check out the current price for Canon Zoom Pack 1000 Camera Holster on Amazon.
Things to Look For When Buying a Camera Holster
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Functionality
If it’s not going to be functional, then you don’t need it. The whole point of the camera holster is to be able to quickly access it, draw the camera, and shoot the photo. In the photography world, you sometimes need to react quickly to get a perfect shot. Look for the holsters that can easily be opened from the top or have numerous access points.
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Size/Storage
The size of the holster is sometimes in direct relationship with the storage. Sometimes it’s not. Whatever the case, you should take a holster that will suit your needs. Some of the holsters we mentioned aren’t particularly huge but they are able to fit in a lot of stuff. If the storage is your primary concern, consider getting a bigger holster, although this can be tricky sometimes. The larger holster can pack size due to the high-quality padding. Speaking of padding…
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Padding
It’s very important to look for good padding. A thick, yet soft shoulder strap should do the job perfectly. This will allow the strap to adapt to your shoulder shape, unlike the stiff strap, which can put additional stress on your shoulder. A thicker strap with thicker padding will also last longer and will not snap in half, like some thin and low-quality straps with no padding.
For those who want to draw their camera out of a camera bag in just a few seconds so they can take pictures then buying a camera holster is really a good idea. Just remember that camera holsters can’t store a lot of photography gear in them due to the limited storage capacity. There are also 7 different types of camera bags to choose from if you are not sure about going with a camera holster. We made an in-depth guide on how to choose a camera bag that can certainly help with your decision. Our guide will help you navigate and understand different types of camera bags on the market and after going through it you will have a clearer image of what is the best choice for you.
Related: 4 Best Photography Camera Waist Belts for Photographers to Buy
