Holdfast Gear

Overview

HoldFast Gear is a leather goods manufacturer specializing in camera harnesses, straps, and photography accessories designed for professionals and enthusiasts. Founded by photographer Matthew Swaggart, the company emerged from a need for stylish, functional camera gear that departed from the standard black nylon offerings in the photography industry. The brand has expanded beyond photography equipment to include lifestyle products such as dog leashes, wallets, camera bags, travel bags, and notebooks, while maintaining its core focus on durable leather goods.

History

HoldFast Gear was founded in 2011 by Matthew Swaggart, a professional wedding photographer who identified a gap in the market for premium leather camera equipment. Swaggart bootstrapped the company using personal capital from his photography business during an economic downturn, with no external funding or backing. The company's flagship product, the MoneyMaker camera harness, became the brand's signature offering and helped establish HoldFast's reputation for combining style with functionality. Since its inception, HoldFast has remained independent and focused on ethical, locally-sourced manufacturing in Oklahoma.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

All HoldFast products are manufactured ethically in the United States, specifically in Oklahoma, with a focus on local sourcing and sustainable job creation. The company emphasizes handcrafted quality and durability, with founder Matthew Swaggart prioritizing in-house production and local supply chains since the company's inception.

Notable Products

• MoneyMaker Camera Harness - Flagship multi-camera harness system that established the brand's reputation for combining professional functionality with leather craftsmanship
• Leather Camera Straps - Signature camera straps that replaced tactical nylon with premium leather and canvas construction
• Camera Bags - Structured leather bags designed for photographers to carry equipment while maintaining a professional appearance
• Travel Bags - Expanded lifestyle product line featuring leather construction for general travel and everyday use
• Dog Leashes - Premium leather pet accessories representing the brand's expansion into lifestyle products

Reputation

HoldFast Gear is recognized within the photography community for exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in leather goods. The brand is valued for its commitment to American manufacturing, ethical production, and durable products designed to last indefinitely. Photographers appreciate the aesthetic departure from standard black nylon gear and the functional design that accommodates professional workflows. The company maintains a strong reputation for customer satisfaction and principled business practices, though as a small manufacturer it operates at a premium price point relative to mass-produced alternatives.