Must-have landscape photography accessories for Canon EOS 5D Mark IV users?

Question

Hi everyone! I’ve been shooting with my Canon EOS 5D Mark IV for about a year now, and while I’ve mostly done portraits and street photography, I really want to dive into serious landscape work this season. This camera is such a powerhouse with its 30.4MP sensor, but I feel like I'm not fully equipped yet to handle the demands of long exposures or tricky lighting at sunrise and sunset. I’m wondering what you all consider the 'must-have' accessories specifically for this body to get the most out of it.

Since the 5D IV is quite a bit heavier than the newer mirrorless setups, I know I need a really solid tripod that can handle the weight, but I'm also torn on filter systems. Should I invest in a 100mm square filter kit for NDs and grads, or are high-quality screw-on filters enough to get started? I’m also looking into L-brackets for easier switching to vertical compositions, as I’ve heard they are a game-changer for tripod work. Additionally, with the high resolution of this sensor, I’m worried about even the tiniest camera shake—do you recommend a specific remote shutter release, or is the built-in intervalometer sufficient? What are the absolute essentials you’d recommend for a 5D Mark IV landscape kit to ensure I’m getting the sharpest, most professional results possible?

RandallWrimb · Accepted Answer

Ok so, i've been shooting with that exact body for ages and honestly, it’s still such a powerhouse for landscapes! But yeah, it’s a heavy beast compared to mirrorless, so you gotta be careful with your support system. In my experience, the absolute first thing you should grab is a solid L-bracket. I use the Kirk Enterprises BL-5DIV L-Bracket for Canon 5D Mark IV and it LITERALLY changed how I shoot. Being able to flip to vertical without the tripod head flopping to the side keeps the weight centered and way more stable. For the tripod, dont skimp because of that weight. I recommend something like the Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber 4-Section Tripod because it’s stiff enough for the 5D IV but wont kill your back on a hike. Regarding the filters, if you’re getting serious, go for a square system. Screw-ons are okay but you’ll hate them the second you try to use a Graduated ND filter and cant adjust the horizon line. I started with the Lee Filters FH100MK2 100mm Foundation Kit and it’s been solid for years. About the camera shake... tbh the built-in timer is fine for some things, but mirror slap is a real issue at 30.4MP. You should definitely use 'Mirror Lockup' mode in your settings. I usually pair it with the Canon RS-80N3 Remote Switch so I dont even have to touch the body during the exposure. It’s basically essential for those crisp shots at sunrise. Anyway, hope that helps! It’s a learning curve but so worth it... good luck! 👍

julia.fowler · Answer

Hmm, I've had a different experience with the 'pro' setups mentioned. Honestly, I spent a fortune on those square filter kits and found them such a hassle to setup in the dark—plus I smashed a glass plate once, which was just tragic... literally $150 down the drain. If youre watching ur wallet, you dont need to go that route yet. • Support: I know carbon fiber is the dream, but the Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 Aluminum 3-Section Tripod is basically a tank for around $220. It handles the 5D IV weight way better than cheap carbon legs, tho it is heavy... I mean your arms might get a workout lol.
• Filters: High-quality screw-ons like the Hoya 77mm Variable ND Filter (about $85) are way more practical starting out than the Lee Filters Foundation Kit.
• L-Bracket: Dont overpay for big brands. The SmallRig L-Bracket for Canon 5D Mark IV 2202 is like $40 and honestly its been solid for me for years.
• Shake: Just use the built-in 2-sec timer. I had issues with remotes failing in the cold anyway... just keep it simple! Peace 👍

Tom_33 · Answer

Works great for me