Must-have landscape photography accessories for a Canon 5D Mark III?

Question

Hey everyone! I finally managed to snag a used Canon 5D Mark III in great condition. I know it's an older full-frame body, but I've always loved the colors and the tank-like build quality. I've mostly been doing street photography with a single prime lens, but I'm planning a big trip to Olympic National Park next month to focus on coastal landscapes and long exposures.

Since the 5D III is a bit of a heavy beast compared to modern mirrorless setups, I’m trying to figure out what accessories are actually essential to get the most out of it in the field. I’m already looking at a solid tripod, but I realized this camera doesn't have a built-in intervalometer, which is a bit of a bummer for those silky waterfall shots. I'm also curious about filter systems that work well with the EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L II lens I just picked up because I'm worried about vignetting.

A reliable remote shutter or intervalometer for long exposures

Suggestions for a sturdy L-bracket that fits the 5D III specifically

Circular polarizers versus square filter systems for the 82mm thread size

I really want to make sure I have everything dialed in before I'm miles away from the nearest shop. For those of you who still rock the 5D Mark III for nature shots, what are your absolute must-have accessories?

FrozenFlame · Accepted Answer

Congrats on the 5D III! Honestly, its such a tank and still takes amazing photos. For the intervalometer, dont waste money on the official Canon one because its way too expensive. I use the Neewer Digital Timer Remote Shutter Release for Canon. Its super cheap and basically does everything you need for those long waterfall exposures. For the L-bracket, check out the Sunwayfoto PCL-5DIII L-Bracket. It fits the body perfectly and you really dont need the 200 dollar boutique versions. Regarding filters, since that 16-35mm has a massive 82mm thread, square systems get pricey fast. I would start with a solid CPL like the K&F Concept Nano-X Circular Polarizer 82mm. Its way more budget-friendly than a full kit but still has really good glass. You dont need to spend a fortune to get the job done at Olympic... just focus on the composition!

heather.flores · Answer

I'd actually skip the circular filters for that 16-35mm. At 16mm, screw-ins often vignette or give you weird sky gradients. I prefer the NiSi V7 100mm Filter Holder Kit with True Color NC CPL because it handles stacking way better. For the L-bracket, dont overpay for the high-end brands. The Sunwayfoto PCL-5DIII L-Bracket for Canon 5D Mark III is super sturdy and keeps the ports accessible for your remote cable.

Emma Cooee · Answer

Like someone mentioned, that 5D III is a beast, but I'm gonna take a slightly different stance on the accessories. I'm a bit more conservative when it comes to gear reliability. Personally, I've always been most satisfied with the Canon LP-E6N Lithium-Ion Battery Pack over third-party options. I've seen too many cheap batteries die early in the cold or lose their charge capacity after a few months. When you're deep in the park, you need that peace of mind. Not worth the risk tbh. For the shutter, I'd actually recommend the Canon TC-80N3 Timer Remote Controller. Its built like the camera itself and handles the moisture at the coast much better than the budget remotes. If you're looking for a better L-bracket, the Really Right Stuff B5D3-L L-Plate for Canon 5D Mark III is professional-grade and the fit is far superior to universal or cheaper cast versions. Regarding filters, I've been very happy with the Haida M10 Filter Holder Kit. The drop-in circular polarizer is brilliant because you dont have to take the whole rig apart to adjust it. It works well with the 16-35mm and I haven't noticed any major vignetting issues at the wide end.