Holiday Giveaway:
FREE Air Strap + Bonus Prize
EVERY DAY until December 25th.

Daily Prizes:
1 winner every day till Christmas!

Bonus One-Time Prizes:
Glide One Strap System
$50 eGift Card to CustomSLR.com 
Slim Strap
Hand Strap
ProDot 2-Pack
*Bonus prize will be selected at random

1. Follow @customslr on Instagram
2. Post one of your best photos from 2018
3. Tag @customslr and #FreeYourCamera
4. In the caption, write what inspired you most in your photography this year
5. Tag 3 friends

Get 40% off sitewide when you use coupon code "BF40" at checkout.

PLUS, you'll get a FREE M-Plate Mini and blue C-Loop HD (value: $75) when you spend $40 or more.

To get the free gift, you do NOT need to add the M-Plate Mini or blue C-Loop HD to your cart. Simply add at least $40 worth of items to your cart, and we will take care of the rest!

This amazing deal starts NOW and ends Monday, November 27 at 11:30PM Pacific.

GET 40% OFF NOW👉🏽 https://customslr.com/discount/BF40

From the plains of South Africa to the fjords of Norway, we received hundreds of breathtaking photos of adventures around the world for our #FreeYourCamera 2017 Photography Contest. Thank you!

Congratulations to our three winners...

Second Runner-Up:
@matsonhunter

Check out @matsonhunter on Instagram

First Runner-Up:
@aimpalaboy

Check out @aimpalaboy on Instagram

Grand Prize:
@bachphoto_

 Check out @bachphoto_ on Instagram

These three winners will each receive the Custom SLR Pro Bundle, a collection of our bestselling camera gear!

#FreeYourCamera:
The Adventure Continues...

This isn't the end! Tag #FreeYourCamera anytime you want to share your photography with the Custom SLR community. You may even get featured on our social media!

Where's your sense of adventure? We wanna see it! Share your best photos with us on Instagram for a chance to win Custom SLR gift cards.

Contest Starts TODAY!
Ends: Monday, July 31, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. PDT

Three Winners
Grand Prize: $250 Custom SLR gift card
First Runner-Up: $100 Custom SLR gift card
Second Runner-Up: $50 Custom SLR gift card

Three Easy Steps

1. Follow @customslr on Instagram and/or Facebook

2. Post your best photos to your Instagram account and/or to the Custom SLR Facebook timeline

3. Tag @customslr AND #FreeYourCamera

We'll judge photos based on composition, creativity, and how strongly they evoke a sense of freedom and adventure. Winners will be announced August 1!

Photo credit: Dustin Snipes/Red Bull Content Pool

How did this project come about? What was the inspiration? 

The FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship is being hosted in Vienna this year, so the idea was to show something iconic to the city, like the Spanish riding horses and the (former imperial palace) together with beach volleyball players.

Between arrival and shoot day, how much time did you have to scout and prep for the shoot? Did you bring everything? Did you rent? 

My assistant Caleb and I arrived in Vienna on a flight from Los Angeles and immediately went to the location to scout. We spent about an hour at the location walking through logistics and pre-planning lighting for the shoot the next day.

Before I arrived, I used Google images to view photos of the palace and because there were a lot of very large windows I used Google maps and the app Sun Surveyor to figure out of the sun during the time of the shoot.

I brought 4 Siros L lights with me, 2 focus umbrellas, 2 p45 reflectors and 1 Broncolor 150 Octobank.

Luckily I was fortunate enough to get Broncolor and Slach camera store to help me with the additional equipment.

What challenges did you face? 

We only had one hour with the horses. Even though they are highly trained (and expensive), they are still very timid animals.

Photo credit: Dustin Snipes/Red Bull Content Pool

What gear did you use? 

I used a Canon 5Ds R with a 16-35 and also a 1Dxmk2 with a 24-70. 

I had 8 lights on site but only ended up using 6 for the shots.

Is there something special that you learned specifically with this shoot?

Planning and preparation are always key to a successful shoot. You have to know how to solve any problem that may come up.

Photo credit: Dustin Snipes/Red Bull Content Pool

Any shoutouts? 

Thanks to super assistant Caleb Adams for helping trouble shoot things and Broncolor and Slach camera store in Vienna for the lighting support.

Check out the behind-the-scenes video of the shoot here:

Currently in stock are bestsellers such as the Tilopa and Large Pro ICU, so be sure to grab them before they're gone.

If you place an order now, your F-Stop bag will ship on April 30th—just in time for all your summer adventures.

Perfect Pairings: F-Stop Bags + Custom SLR Bundles

Get the Gear

• Custom SLR Mirrorless Bundle
• F-Stop Springfield camera bag

Our bestselling camera gear joins forces with F-Stop's two top bestselling camera bags! You'll be unstoppable with these on your side.

Get the Gear

• Custom SLR Pro Bundle
• F-Stop Tilopa bag
• F-Stop Large Pro ICU

It's the perfect time to upgrade your gear to premium products. Check out F-Stop's site and take your camera accessories to the next level!

But more than a decade later, he found himself competing in one of the most prestigious mountain bike competitions in the world: Red Bull Joyride. He placed in the top 10 of 18 riders.

Watch the interview to find out the moment that inspired him to transition to MTB, how he juggles work and family life, and what his plans are for 2017.

Guest post by Andre Magarao, Custom SLR Pro Team

I usually see my jobs with photography as solving a problem. Most of the time someone comes to me with a situation they want to bring to life in a photo. I’ve been working for a few sporting goods brands for a while so most of the time my solution involves using artificial light to make sure that no matter what the weather conditions are I can still show their product in a good light. I’ve been doing this for some time. So every now and then clients come up to me looking for this look.

I know it might sound counterintuitive, but because of that I end up looking up a lot at photographers who do something completely different.

Fred Mortagne

So I admire the work of guys like “FrenchFred." His name is actually Fred Mortagne. He does a lot of black and white stuff with skateboarding. You should definitely check out his Instagram @Frenchfred.

A video posted by Fred Mortagne (@frenchfred) on Oct 22, 2015 at 7:36am PDT

Ronaldo Land

I’m from Brazil. I’ve been to Europe before, but I’ve honestly never spent the amount of time I would have liked to there. So sometimes it’s a little tricky to relate to references/influences that are so far away. So I also look up to the work of another Brazilian photographer named Ronaldo Land. He also works a lot with photos full of contrast black and white and skateboarding. You can check out his work on Instagram @ronaldo_land. 

A photo posted by Ronaldo Land (@ronaldo_land) on Nov 20, 2014 at 4:44am PST

Which photographers inspire you? Tell us in the comments below!

Guest post by Carlo Cruz, Custom SLR Pro Team

Coming from all the 5D series, the Mark IV is like seeing a familiar face. I received the camera on October 31 – updated the time, date and location, set up my custom functions and quick menu shortcuts, did a few test shots, installed the Canon app and messed with the wi-fi functions.

The next day I am shooting day 1 for a series of events for Red Bull called Red Bull Sound Select: 30 days in LA 2016 – I shot 9 out of 30. 

This is the third year in a row I’ve shot this event and in both previous years, I was using the 5D Mark III.  

Comparison Photos: Mark III vs Mark IV

2015 - Shot on a Mark III

2016 - Shot on a Mark IV

2015 - Shot on a Mark III

2016 - Shot on a Mark IV

2015 - Shot on a Mark III

2016 - Shot on a Mark IV

Click here to view more photos from my Mark III in 2015

Click here to view more photos from my Mark IV in 2016

Canon 5D Mark IV Review for Concert Photos

So here’s my initial impression for the 5D Mark IV coming from a Mark III, when shooting concert photos.

As I mentioned earlier, the transition from a MK III to a MK IV is flawless – once you’re done with your custom functions, you are good to go. Weight and size are almost the same, the card slots still use SD and CF, and no change in batteries. One noticeable change would be the remote shutter slot location is moved to the front. Not a big deal for me.

Now for the differences. For concert events where you constantly deal with low light situations, the two biggest noticeable improvements for me are the ISO quality and the faster autofocus. Speaking from experience, I would say I can now push my ISO to 3200 and still have acceptable “clean” images compared to MK III’s 2500 ISO ceiling. Autofocus improved as well and I find myself not switching to manual focusing as much when it gets really dim in the venue. Somehow the focusing finds my subject.

Another cool upgrade is the built-in wifi for fast image transferring, it is much easier to connect your phone and select the photos you need to send out right away. I used to have eye-fi for that, and although eye-fi works well once everything is set-up, it is still another thing to worry about. Having a built in wifi just makes things a little less complicated.

Other functions worth mentioning are the ability to view, pan, and zoom in and out using touch screen. It makes it easier to select your photos and check for details or to see if they are sharp or not. The 7fps burst rate is also a welcome addition coming from 6fps as well as the 30 MP jump, which may or may not be a good thing if you have a slow computer, my 2015 MacBook experienced some slight lag when editing.

Stuff I don’t care about (yet): 4K video and Dual Pixel RAW.

Conclusion, the additional functions of the MK IV are definitely a great improvement over the MK III.

Is it worth the upgrade? Yes and no. Yes if you are waiting for the next 5D- this in my opinion is a worthy replacement for the MK III series. No if you are happy with your MK III and debating if it’s worth upgrading. Unless you need the 4K video and that 30 MP jump in your workflow, you are not really missing out.

. . .

Have you tried the Canon 5D Mark IV? Tell us what you think of it in the comments below!

I had my first taste of photography back in 2008. My daughter was only a a few weeks old and I decided to get a ‘real’ camera and learn how to take nice photos of my children. I purchased a bottom-of-the-range Canon DSLR and proceeded to take some very average photos.

It took a little while but I was surely caught by the bug and I started to consume all sorts of information from books, YouTube and other websites. I even attended a few basic photography classes.

I think the biggest factor in how quickly my photography skills grew was the fact that I was obsessed with photography. It was only a few months after getting my camera that I turned my interests towards landscape photography. I was hell bent on re-creating some of the amazing landscape and seascape photos that I had been seeing in books, online and in some beautiful galleries.

It was only two to three years after buying my first camera that I started sharing and teaching what I had learned. From there I starting running workshops locally and around Australia. Within a couple of years I had teamed up with friend to offer overseas photo tours/workshops to some amazing places like New Zealand, Bhutan and Kamchatka. It has been a wild ride and I'm sure it will continue to be in the future. I’m now working on a new chapter of my photography journey and hope to announce it early in 2017.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I think I’m quite a modest guy when it comes to celebrating accomplishments. As far as I’m concerned, you work towards a goal, you get there and then you move on to the next goal or project.

I think being a photographer is an amazing thing and you are constantly striving to improve your photography but you also have to grow your business. For me, I don’t think that I can put my finger on one specific thing that I am proud to have accomplished. I love when I receive emails from clients regarding a workshop they attended or a print that they purchased and about how happy they are with the results. That to me gives a real sense of accomplishment, to know that people love what I do so much that they are willing to part with their very hard-earned cash. It's a huge honor and I get a huge sense of gratitude when I know that people get value from what I do.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I use a couple of different products religiously. I use the Camera Hand Strap, the Glide One Camera System and the Dual Camera Strap. I also love the ProDot Shutter Button Upgrade too.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel? 

As you know I’m a huge fan of the Camera Hand Strap. I use this a lot when I’m shooting events or commercial work. I use it pretty much all of the time when I’m not using a tripod. It really makes the camera feel much more comfortable in the hand and after a long day of shooting, my hands used to ache quite a bit.

I find using the Camera Hand Strap, I’m much more relaxed in the way I hold the camera. Not to mention the extra comfort you get from knowing that you can’t drop your camera. It’s really a great tool for me when I’m using my camera a lot.

I use both the Glide One Camera System and the Dual Camera Strap. I find that these camera straps are an awesome addition to your everyday camera kit. I use the Glide One Camera System on a daily basis and when shooting an event where only one camera is needed.

The Dual Camera Strap comes into play especially when I'm shooting aerial photography. I don’t particularly like changing lenses when I’m 1,000 feet in the air with the doors off. I have a freaky fear of dropping a lens when changing it. So I always have two cameras in the helicopter and the Dual Camera Strap is the perfect camera strap for this.

I find that these camera straps are very well made and are very comfortable to use. They truly make life easier for a professional photographer. As mentioned before, I also use the ProDot Shutter Button Upgrade. It's such a clever little thing. I find that it does indeed help to make your shutter button very sensitive and really reduces that risk of camera shake when it's important.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I think I would have to choose the superpower of flight. It would be amazing to be able to fly whenever you want. I love aerial photography and aside from the cost of using helicopters on a regular basis, it's just not possible to get up in the air at the drop of a hat. It would be so amazing to be able to grab your camera and go for a flight whenever you felt like it or whenever you looked up and saw some nice conditions forming for some great photography. The idea that no matter where you were in the world, you can simple fly above the very spot where you stood and capture it from a new and interesting angle. Yes, I think this would have to be the best superpower for a photographer that spends all of his time capturing photos of the world around us.

We're giving away 3 of these sweet Custom SLR hats EVERY DAY till Christmas! On top of that, from that pool of winners, 3 lucky folks will get a Starter, Mirrorless, or Pro Bundle in our New Year New Gear Giveaway! 

DAILY PRIZES

Custom SLR Hats (3 winners every day till Christmas!)

BONUS ONE-TIME PRIZES

Starter Bundle (Valued at $57.95)

Mirrorless Bundle ( Valued at $49.95)

Pro Bundle (Valued at $145.95) 

HOW TO ENTER TO WIN

1) Follow @customslr on Instagram

2) Post one of your best photos from 2016

3) Tag @customslr and #FreeYourCamera
4) In the caption, write what inspired you most in your photography this year
5) Tag 3 friends 

DEADLINE

Saturday, December 24 at 11:59 p.m. PST. We'll notify hat winners every night at 11:59 p.m. PST. Bundle winners will be announced on Monday, Dec. 27. You can enter every day of the giveaway, but you can win a hat only once.


Will you be one of the 3 people to win our new Custom SLR hats today? Head over to Instagram and post your photo!

How did you get your start in photography?

I’ve always liked taking photos, but I got serious with it back in 2000 when I was really getting heavy into architecture photography. I used to run around and spend countless nights shooting around the city. Back then, there were not a lot of set rules against shooting in public buildings and establishments so you leave it up to the security personnel how they deal with photographers. Most of the time they let you do what you want, or sometimes let you off with a warning.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

The fact that I can do this professionally and have been for more than a decade is something I am thankful for. Doing something you love and making a career out of it is definitely an accomplishment.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

Aside from the Glide-One Strap, I LOVE my M-Plate Pro. Easily attaching to a tripod, then switching to a monopod without the need to remove or unthread anything from your camera, and top that off with a red ProDot! It’s these innovations that eliminates the need to bring those small extra items in your packing lists that enables you to focus more on your photography.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

Custom SLR products just simply work. They are reliable and functional.

Carlo getting down to business with the Glide One Strap on a FitBit photo shoot

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Haha! I wish I could stop time – hence, photography.

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How did you get your start in photography?

I started shooting motocross when I was younger. I'd do it on the side when I wasn't racing and post the photos on my website before social media existed.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I'm proud that I am able to do what I love to do thanks to my camera.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I use the Glide One Strap System and Dual Camera Strap.

How does using these products to improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

With the Glide One Strap System and Dual Camera Strap, I can move freely when shooting in the field while knowing my cameras are secure. The straps also flex like suspension, reducing the chance of aches and pains in your back and shoulders.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation because then I could instantly go anywhere I wanted to shoot photos.

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How did you get your start in photography?

I bought my first DSLR when I booked a flight to NYC with no idea of how that thing worked. Here's where it all began. Years after, with some more experience in photography, a friend of mine asked me to join him in a new action photography company based in a ski resort in the Pyrenees. Here exactly began my love for photography.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I'm really proud of all the friends I've made and all the places I've visited while taking pictures!

Especially happy with the confidence Lleides FMX Team placed in me. They took me as one more member of their family to show the world their awesome tricks and values.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I usually carry a "heavy" 70-200 (love those lenses) so a Glide One Strap System is my MUST HAVE combined with a M-Plate Pro Tripod Plate to fit perfectly in my Manfrotto tripod, and a ProDot Shutter Button Upgrade to complete my perfect setting.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

Carrying around my camera in style and being able to use it as fast as I need it boosted my game. Also the comfort the M-Plate Pro Tripod Plate provides is out of this world.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Time travel for sure! Get to photograph anything in any time! WHAT A DREAM! 

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How did you get your start in photography?

I got my start in photography after a bad bicycle crash. After I shattered my ankle, I decided to pick up my mom's old camera, and it just kinda came to me.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

My biggest accomplishment in my career so far has to be shooting an event called The Concours d’Elegance, one of the most prestigious car shows in the world.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

My favorite Custom SLR product has to be the Glide One Camera Strap System. It's a comfortable strap that allows you to quickly glide your camera up from your side to capture the moment. I recently started using the Slim Strap.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

Using the Glide One Strap and the Slim Strap definitely improves my photography. My camera is always in the right place at the right time! The straps are very comfortable, makes it feel like nothing is on your shoulders.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I’m gonna have to go with Superhuman Speed. Because I could sprint to my next shot location on the track.

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How did you get your start in photography?

I got my start like many other action/adventure photographers. I was a participant first, then, as my friends got better than me, I gravitated towards a camera and progressed that way. I had always been drawn to technology as well as art so I guess it was the perfect combination of the two.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

Overall I’m super proud that I have been able to make a living off of doing what I love. It’s been an amazing ride so far and I have been fortunate enough to create many memorable projects and images that I have been super proud of.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I use both the Glide One Strap as well as the Dual Strap, the C-Loops and the M-Plate Slim on all my cameras and accessories.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

I honestly have been amazed at how much the Custom SLR gear helped me shoot. I had always been frustrated with conventional camera straps over the years and once I changed to the Custom SLR system it has been amazing. I put C-Loops on all of my cameras, as well as my larger lenses (such as a 70-200) which allows me to quickly switch between cameras without having to take the strap off. It may seem like a small inconvenience, but often I find myself shooting with my backpack on, or, in the cold with many layers of clothing and having to take off the strap can be quite annoying. Now I can just clip in the camera and go.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I have actually thought about this a lot in my life. I have always wanted to be invincible. I don’t like being sidelined by injuries and hate it when I cannot work or play due to illness. It would be nice to not have to worry about that anymore and maybe be able to take chances without any risk. That and being able to do a lot of the things I get to photograph (snowboard off buildings, big wave surfing, etc.) with no consequences would be a lot of fun too.

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How did you get your start in photography? 

All through my childhood my dad was a well-traveled photographer. In the late 90s I bought a Nikon Coolscan 4000 and started archiving his old 35mm slides (Kodachrome, of course!). I started remembering places we had been and things I had seen (that is the power of a great image) and it really flipped a switch for me. While I have always ‘dabbled’ in taking pictures, I became a photographer on my birthday in the summer of 2002. I remember the day well. It felt like I finally discovered who I am.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I have been blessed with many great opportunities over the years; my dad calling me from a Barnes & Noble in Toronto after recognizing my image on a magazine cover was pretty cool. I’ve also made some great contacts, many of whom I now call friends. I have had a lot of doors closed in my face, but persistence and politeness almost always pay off, and you will meet some interesting people along the way.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

My bag contains several Custom SLR products: the C-Loop (both sizes), the Camera Hand Strap, the Mirrorless Bundle, and the Glide One Strap.

Royal's gear hanging on a fence at the Jackson Hole Airport in the summer of 2016. Nikon D750 with Camera Hand Strap shown.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

For sure the Camera Hand Strap. It is an amazing addition to your camera. My go-to kit is a Nikon D750 (gripped) with a Sigma 120-300 f/2.8, which is fairly long and weighty. The Camera Hand Strap gives me the ability to one-hand my gear out of an open helicopter, over a fence, or while climbing a ladder. The fit is perfect and the grip is so secure it gives me total peace of mind. And, when it gets cold out, you open it up a bit and shoot with a thick glove.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Wow. I would say the ability to manipulate time. Like slowing things down or maybe even the ability to time travel. Could you imagine how awesome that would be? It sounds exciting, but also scary! I would not want to be able to influence what I was watching, however. I wouldn’t want to change history, just experience it firsthand. 

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How did you get your start in photography?

I came across photography through detours. I actually had never been really into photography to be honest. I first started to study physiotherapy. Unfortunately I am allergic to all kinds of stuff (including disinfection liquids) so I had to stop when I was halfway through the education. So I needed to find a job where didn’t have to be in contact with any kind of liquids. I am a really creative person. I love to draw, to design and so on. That's why my mom came one day and said, "Hey, what about photography?" That was the moment photography came into my life. Actually really late when you think about it. I was already almost 20 years old and had never owned a camera in my life. Well, then one thing led to another and I started to study photography and found my passion in it. That's how I got my start in photography.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I got a couple cover shots I am really proud of, and I also had the opportunity to shoot some amazing campaigns with great international companies.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I have the Glide One Straps on both of my cameras (including the C-Loops in blue and red) and I just can say I love them! Also the Custom SLR Dual Camera Strap Kit which makes life way easier for me since I can carry both cameras ready to shoot and hanging organized on my body. And of course the ProDot Shutter Button Upgrades!

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

The Glide One Straps are just amazing. Most of the ordinary camera straps are too tight. Once you get them around your body you can't really do anything. I always had to shoot without the strap around my neck, which isn't a safe solution at all because if you lose control and drop your camera, it for sure will hit the floor. But since I got the Custom SLR Glide One Straps on my gear I can say it made shooting way more safe for my camera, and it definitely gave me another level of freedom while shooting. If you are just carrying your camera around you can tighten it up so it's not flying around your body, but once you need to shoot something you just pull the strap and in less than a second the strap is long enough and offers you the freedom you need to be able to shoot and also keep your camera safe around your neck at the same time! Couldn't imagine shooting without them anymore.

My Custom SLR Dual Camera Strap Kit gives me the opportunity to carry both cameras on my body ready to shoot at any time. If I am shooting sports events, for example, it's all about being good, prepared, and fast. The worst that can happen is this: You need to change lenses if you do not have two cameras which slows you down a lot and you for sure will miss some shots while creeping around in your camera bag. But once you have two cameras going you at least do not have to change lenses anymore but you have two straps hanging around your neck, which for me is already pretty chaotic and annoying. The straps can get caught in each other and it also doesn't really give you a feeling of freedom at all. And here comes the Dual Camera Strap in the game. For me the perfect solutions. You carry a comfortable, perfect-fitting strap around your chest and one camera is hanging safely and ready to shoot on each side.

The ProDots are a sweet extra to upgrade your camera. I have them on both of my cameras and they are not just looking good, no, they mainly make sure you always find the right button when it has to go quick, and you do not slip off the button. I also shoot a lot of times in cold conditions where I have to wear gloves. The ProDot makes it easy for me to find and stay safe on the trigger.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I would love to be able to fly like a bird. Being able to fly is for me the epitome of being free.

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On an old Sony DSC-P32 in 2004. Still one of the worst cameras I've ever owned. However, I used this camera enough to know I wanted to become better at photography and this led me to invest more time and effort in the hobby. The Canon 40D was the first camera I truly enjoyed shooting with and saw the potential to get better.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

Winning a $10,000 grant this year to take photographs of the indigenous community I work in and using pictures to document the world we live in, no matter how small a part of it.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I started with the Glide One Strap and C-Loop to offset the weight of my old Canon 40D. I've previously just used the included manufacturer straps but they are extremely uncomfortable over long periods of use. I was excited when I saw the Air Strap arrive on Kickstarter and now all of my full-sized DSLRs are fitted with Air Straps. The Slim Strap was another exciting product - a quality product for smaller cameras that was comfortable to use and not overly expensive.

Custom SLR Slim Strap arrived today, thanks @customslr #slr #fujifilm #x100t #fujifilm_xseries #fuji #x100t #blackandwhite #photography #photo #bw #camera #accessories #htc

A photo posted by David (@djangoheraclitus) on Apr 14, 2016 at 5:42am PDT

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

I am a larger person and having a large weight around my neck for hours on end was killing my enjoyment of photography, particularly on long hikes. The Custom SLR straps allow for comfort and ease of adjustment that other products don't seem to match, and at a very fair and reasonable cost. All of my cameras are now fitted with Custom SLR straps and will continue to be so.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

The power over time, to go back and do it all again.

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How did you get your start in photography?

I started shooting photos in the early days with my dad's DSLR. But in 2013 I got injured and bought my first DSLR and when I learned the basics and got my first photo, I was so stoked how one frame could be so timeless.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

Hm this is a hard one. I would say that I have progressed a lot in a small amount of time.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I use the Dual Camera Strap and the Slim Strap.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

The Dual Camera Straps help relax my shoulders when using 2 cameras. And it's easy to switch between the cameras so I’m not missing any photos at let’s say a sport event.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I would say flying. The bird's-eye view, haha!

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How did you get your start in photography?

My first contact with photography was a long time ago when I was 14 or so. My dad had a Pentax still during the film days, and he taught me a bit about it and I started playing with it. I did a few photography courses but then faded away from it for a few years and came back to it after a few “normal” job experiences.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

That is a hard question. Photography can be weird sometimes. I feel that sometimes that one photo you are really stoked on is not necessarily the one the client is the most stoked on. I treasure some shots because of the technical side of it.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I’ve been using the Glide One Strap a lot. It’s really nice for me because sometimes I need to quickly change between shooting with a water housing and then go to shoot from land. The C-Loop allows me to quickly get the strap on and off the camera. I also use the Hand Strap on one of my cameras, the one I use to get the sketchy, close-to-the-water angles. It’s always nice to be safe. And it’s a situation that I would probably get a normal strap soaked.

The Custom SLR Glide One Strap chilling in a tropical climate. Photo courtesy of Andre Magarao

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

The products are very well made and are really comfortable to use. They also have features that make my life easier in the field, and even more so when I’m doing jobs that are the “one man crew” type.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I’m a big Spider Man fan, so maybe the same ones he has. It would also be useful for photography. I could use spider webs to hang flashes and remote cameras. It would be a lot nicer than carrying tripods around.

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Stay in bed Friday morning and do your shopping online! This is the biggest discount we will offer this year.

Now through Monday, Nov. 28, 2016, you can get 25% off ANY of our new bundles. Just enter BFBUNDLES at checkout.

We recently released our Custom SLR Bundles, which are select gear packaged based on your needs.

Explore the New Custom SLR Bundles

The Starter Bundle is perfect for anyone who wants to have a strong foundation for their photography. 

It includes

• Air Strap
• C-Loop Strap Mount, Silver
• ProDots - Shutter Button Upgrade, Black

The Mirrorless Bundle caters to those with mirrorless, compact, and micro four-thirds cameras.

It includes

• Slim Strap
• C-Loop Mini Strap Mount

The Pro Bundle is the cream of the crop, featuring our best-selling gear that's used by our Pro Team photographers!

It includes

• Glide One
• Hand Strap w/ Mount
• M-Plate Pro Tripod Plate
• ProDots - Shutter Button Upgrade, Black
• M-Plate Hand Strap Attachment

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I got my start in photography in the mid 1970s working as a photographer for my high school and hometown newspapers.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

If I had to pick one accomplishment that I am most proud of it would have to be taking my small photography workshop group to one of the largest and most active photography sites in the state of Michigan.

My image Standing Guard on Lake Michigan. Is one of the 64 finalist in the Weather channel It's amazing out there photo contest. Over 66,000 images entered. @vanguardphotous #vanguardpro #nationalphotographyworkshopsmeetup #puremichigan @puremichigan #vanduardworld @vanguard_world

A photo posted by Thomas Nighswander (@npwphoto) on Sep 1, 2016 at 2:22pm PDT

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I currently use the Glide One Strap System and M-Plate Pro on my Nikon DSLRs and the Slim Strap on my Fuji mirrorless cameras. I have C-Loops on all of my cameras.

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

I love the Glide One Strap System and M-Plate on my Nikon DSLR. They allow me to shoot effortlessly as well as attach my camera to my tripod without removing the strap. The Slim Strap works perfectly with my mirrorless Fujis when walking about town or out in the field teaching on one of my workshops.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

My superpower would be the ability to freeze time, and as a photographer it feels like I already have that power.

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How did you get your start in photography?

They had a photography class in my junior high school, and I fell in love with it instantly. I got my first photo job in 1993 working for my local newspaper in Brooklyn. I got my first major photo published in 1994 in a skateboard magazine called Slap.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I'm proud that I can make a living doing something I love.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I use the Glide Strap every day. It's the most comfortable strap I've ever used.

In summer I switch to the Air Strap when it's hot and humid in NYC. Makes a big difference.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I would be invisible so I could capture all the moments I see without anyone knowing I ever took their photo.

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How did you get your start in photography?

My escapades into photography first materialized when I ventured to Hong Kong in 2010. The imposing architecture was such a sight that it inspired a spark within me. My style is street, with a dash of portraiture.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

To be selected as a member at Custom SLR. I first pledged at Kickstarter and never thought I would be able to work with one of my best strap companies.

To get my picture published at IDS Toronto for an Interior Design shoot.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

Glide One System, Slim Strap and M-Plate Pro

What's in your swag bag this week? . . #customslr #freeyourcamera #fuji #fujifilm #xt1 #fujixt1 #camera #fujifilm_xseries #fujinon #fujixseries #fujix #zeiss #sony #carlzeiss #sonyalpha #moncler #samsung #s7edge

A photo posted by Jason Can (@jason.can) on Jun 26, 2016 at 10:17am PDT

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

Glide One Strap System - This was the first strap I purchased and it definitely helped me carry my heavy gear. My shoulder is grateful for this strap.

Slim Strap - This is my favorite strap so far; it is lightweight and has the quickest glide function that I have tested.

M-Plate Pro – The M-Plate allows me to use my Strap and quickly attach to my tripod. This is a great concept since every second counts when you’re trying to capture the perfect shot.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

My superpower would be the ability to fly. I would be able to capture all the aerial shots with ease.

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Say hello to our curated Bundles, select gear packaged to fit your needs. 

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I was a graphic designer that needed better photography for projects. Stock photography wasn’t cutting it, so I decided to shoot my own stuff!

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

In 2012, TIME magazine chose one of my tornado photos as a top 10 image of the year!

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

The Glide Strap and M-Plate Pro are always on my camera. Such a versatile family of accessories have been great for storm chasing. I love being able to go to tripod for long exposures when conditions shift and it becomes dark in a matter of seconds. M-Plate Pro for the win!

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

I still have yet to experience a more comfortable strap! The versatility is amazing. When storms are rolling in and light is changing, every second counts!

Going on very little sleep because of the drive but I was able to make it out to the lake for sunrise! Photos/timelapse to come. Also wanted to say thanks a ton to @customslr for inviting me to be part of the team and sending over the care package. I've put the gear to use for sure. Highly recommend! #favoritegear check them out. 👍🏻📸

A photo posted by Parrish Ruiz De Velasco (@1857_studio) on Aug 17, 2016 at 6:46am PDT

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Super speed! There’s very few things I dislike about traveling to new places…The time it takes to get there is one of them!

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How did you get your start in photography?

My love for photography started when I was 5 years old. I used to take a lot of random shots around the house with my little disposable camera. But all throughout my life I kept shooting random things, and it was in 2014 that I decided to combine my passion for Moto and Photography.

Which accomplishments are you most proud of?

Definitely getting the opportunity to shoot the Ken Roczen cover for the December issue of Racer X Illustrated! A dream come true for sure.

Which Custom SLR products do you use?

I use the ProDots, Dual Straps, and Hand Straps on a daily basis.

A peek at what Spencer carries in his bag

How does using these products improve your photography and/or comfort? What difference can you feel?

For me, it's all in the fingers and shoulder comfort. With the ProDots, my trigger finger can pull focus and snap images way faster than my camera without. And with the shoulder straps, I can easily move freely without feeling stiffness or discomfort in my lower back. Plus the Hand Strap never fails to play a huge part in getting those angles!

The product that keeps my fingers triggered. 👌 Thanks for all your support @customslr! Everyone go check them out.

A photo posted by Spencer Owens Imaging (@spencerowens_) on Sep 27, 2016 at 9:33am PDT

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

That's a tough one. I'd have to go with telekinesis for sure! I think it'd be pretty sick to move random things with your mind, haha.

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I didn’t know what to expect when Metal Mulisha asked me to go to an airfield located a half-hour east of Palm Springs to shoot a stunt involving Jimmy Fitzpatrick. One thing is for sure: When Jimmy Fitzpatrick is involved, it is going to be crazy.

The stunt concept was to have Fitzpatrick backflip his dirt bike over an active runway next to Andy Lewis balancing on a slackline while a stunt plane flown by Melissa Andrzejewski flew underneath them both. It was one of the most complex and dangerous projects I have ever worked on.

The first day required a lot of setup and fine tuning. The dirt bike jump and slack line needed to be placed just right for the plane to have enough space on each side. Once set, Melissa showed everyone how she will be flying and what to expect. At one point, she was flying right above us, no more than 10 feet above our heads. From there, Fitzpatrick warmed up on the 75' jump, and Andy made sure his slack line was secure by walking across it naked the first time. While this was taking place, I was scouting angles to shoot and where to place two remote cameras for the next day. This all proved to be very challenging in the 122 degrees fahrenheit temperature.

It was one of the most complex and dangerous projects I have ever worked on.

After a full day of testing, it was decided that the stunt would have to take place in the morning to beat the heat and wind. The team was confident and excited to make their dream a reality. With everything set up and the sunset behind the mountains, everyone headed to the hotel for the evening. A 5:30 a.m. lobby call time was decided to ensure enough time to make it back to the airfield and get set up.

We had an 8-10 a.m. window set to beat the wind and the heat. However it was still 105 degrees out by 8 a.m. Fitzpatrick kicked over his dirt bike, Melissa fired up her plane, and Andy was perched 30ft above asphalt on a slackline. I had my two remote cameras set, and I got in position directly in line with the center of the jump. At this point I had to trust that my two remote cameras were composed, exposed, and firing off of my handheld camera remote signal. It was go time.

As Andy balanced patiently above the tarmac, Melissa dove her plane down towards the runway as Fitzpatrick clicked his bike into gear and made his approach to the ramp. With his hands held high in the sky, Andy let out an enthusiastic cheer as Melissa flew underneath him while Fitzpatrick backflipped with no hands over Melissa, at eye level next to Andy. Fitzpatrick landed triumphantly as Melissa spun off vertically into the sky releasing a celebratory cloud of smoke. The jump was a success, everyone was safe, and all cameras got amazing shots. It was controlled chaos at its finest.

Credits 

Andy Lewis @SketchyAndy

Jimmy Fitzpatrick @jfitzo

Melissa Andrzejewski @melissasportsgal

Metal Mulisha @metalmulisha

Chris Tedesco @tedescophoto