How a quiet idea turned into something useful, for you and your photography.

*Both editions of the Signature Focal Point Strap*

For as long as I’ve been taking photos, I’ve appreciated gear that is simple, functional and well made.

Things that don’t get in the way, but quietly support the process.

The idea of making my own camera strap had been floating around in the back of my mind for years. Something that felt good to use. Something built for lightweight setups, close to the body and made to last.

But I didn’t know where to start. Until I met Anton from Studio J|A

How it started:

Early 2024, I mentioned online that I was on the hunt for a decent short strap, one that actually felt good to carry, held up over time, and didn’t scream “this is photography gear.”

Anton, a fellow photographer from Germany, reached out. He told me he’d been working on camera straps under the Studio J|A Brand. Hand crafted his father who has decades of experience in high-end leatherwork and fashion.

Anton asked if I wanted to meet while he was passing through London.

He brought one of his short straps with him to a coffee shop near Soho.

The moment I picked one up, I knew this was different.

Studio J|A:

Studio J|A was born from culture, friendship, and a passion for photography. Founders Jelani and Anton met in New York City in 2021.

They connected not just through photography, but their shared love for music, especially Hip Hop and Jazz. Before his photography career, Jelani worked in the music business, while Anton is the running a German Hip Hop label and a dedicated hobby photographer.

In 2022, they realised they wanted a camera strap that reflected their mindset: minimal, functional, and made from the highest quality leather.

Many camera straps felt generic or over designed - none combined timeless materials with a modern, understated aesthetic.

With the help of Anton’s father, a retired shoemaker and fashion designer. Together, they developed the first short strap prototypes, using Horween Chromexcel leather - renowned for its buttery feel, strength, and rich patina.

Today, Studio J|A remains a small, independent brand. Made by photographers for photographers, with a deep belief that great tools are more than products. They are extensions of your craft – honest, beautiful, and built to last.

What I loved most was how subtle they are - not flashy and not over designed.

It didn’t take long for the idea to click: Let’s make a set of signature Focal Point straps.

Designing the Straps:

We kept things simple.

Just a short strap with the right materials, the right length (27inches), and the kind of finish that gets better with time.

We landed on two editions:

Standard Black Edition: Clean, quiet, and understated. Black Horween Chromexcel® leather, black stitching, black rivets, and an embossed Focal Point logo.
Forest Green Edition: A touch more character, with deep green Horween leather, green thread, a brass rivet, brushed brass stainless steel rings, and a gold foil stamped logo.

*The Green Edition: My personal favourite.*

Made to Order, Made with Intention:

These straps aren’t mass-produced. Each one is made to order. That means no stock, no overproduction, and no waste.

Pre-orders are open from 28th July to 18th August.

After that, the window closes and we won’t be taking more orders until a future run (if there is one).

Once the orders are collected, Anton’s father will begin making each strap by hand in their workshop in Germany. When they’re finished, I’ll personally receive them, add some final touches to your orders, and begin shipping them out in late September.

What This Means to Me:

These straps are more than just camera accessories to me.

They represent everything I care about when it comes to photography - simplicity, intention, and style.

And soon, they’ll be out in the world, hanging from your cameras and joining you on shoots… that means a lot.

Pre-order Now:

Limited release – available until 18th August
Made to order – no excess stock, no waste
Handmade in Germany – one at a time
Ships late September – once production is complete

→ Pre-order your strap here:

Thanks for reading. Thanks for supporting. And if you do order one - I can’t wait to see it out in the world.

- Mike

Focal Point Short Camera Straps | Handmade Leather Straps for Photographers