> "Would you recommend investing in a square filter system... or are high-quality screw-on ND filters enough?" Respectfully, I'd consider another option. Square systems like the NiSi V7 100mm Filter Holder Kit are flexible but fiddly in wind. Compare that to the Breakthrough Photography 77mm X4 6-Stop Fixed ND Filter:
- Square: Good for stacking but basically acts like a sail.
- Screw-on: Rugged, sealed, no light leaks. Honestly, screw-ons are safer for that high-res 5D sensor. Simple is usually better! gl!

Tbh, the 5D IV is a beast but it’s heavy as heck, especially with L-series glass. One thing to realy watch out for is those "universal" L-brackets. I tried a cheap one once and it kept sliding around under the weight of the body, which is a recipe for disaster on a cliffside. Plus, some of them totally block the remote port or the battery door, which makes long exposures a total nightmare in the field. You definately want something that pins into the body properly so it doesn't twist when you're shooting portrait orientation. Also, since youre hitting the Rockies in the fall, have you thought about how you're carrying the setup while hiking? A standard neck strap is basically a torture device after a few miles. I'm also curious—what specific lenses are you planning to bring? If you're going super wide, like the 16-35mm f/2.8, the filter situation and potential vignetting gets way more complicated than if you're just sticking with a 24-105mm. The wind up there is no joke either, it'll vibrate a flimsy tripod like a guitar string, which totally ruins the sharpness you're looking for with that high-res sensor tho.

yo honestly the 5D IV is basically a tank but its heavy lol. if i were u id be really careful with that aluminum tripod... the Rockies get sooo windy and u definitely dont want ur expensive gear tipping over onto rocks. maybe consider a carbon fiber setup from a brand like Benro or Manfrotto? for filters, its basically screw-ons vs square systems. screw-ons are cheaper but square systems like NiSi or Lee are way better for wide lenses cuz they wont vignette as much on a full-frame sensor. plus stacking glass is way easier. i'd also suggest a physical remote. the canon app is kinda buggy tbh and highkey drains ur battery. a basic wired remote is just safer for those blue hour shots. oh and definitely get an L-bracket! just gotta make sure its one made specifically for the 5D IV body so it doesnt block the side ports... i mean stability is everything for that 30MP sensor. stay safe out there! peace 👍