15/04/2026 11:30 pm
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I am totally freaking out because I just bought a used Canon 5D Mark IV for a big trip to the Scottish Highlands in like ten days and I realized I have no idea what else I actually need to bring. I spent almost all my savings on the body and the 24-105mm lens so I only have about $350 left for accessories. Sorry if this is a really basic question but I am a complete beginner and this camera is way more complicated than my phone... I want to get those cool shots of mountains and waterfalls but people keep talking about all this extra gear and I am lost.
- I definitely need a tripod but there are a million of them and I dont want one that will blow over in the wind.
- Do I need those square glass filter things for the front of the lens? I see people using them for water but they look expensive.
- Someone mentioned a remote clicker so the camera doesnt shake?
- Maybe a bag that wont get soaked if it rains?
I really need to order this stuff like today so it gets here before my flight. What are the absolute bare essentials for someone who has no clue what they are doing but wants decent landscape photos? Is my budget even enough to get anything decent or am I doomed...
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15/04/2026 11:30 pm
Honestly, you're gonna love the 5D Mark IV. I have used mine for years in some pretty rough weather and it always performs. I remember being up in the Isle of Skye a few years back during a massive downpour, and honestly, keeping things simple saved my trip. Since you are on a tight budget, dont worry about those expensive square filters yet. They are a bit of a headache for beginners anyway because you have to mess around with brackets and holders while your hands are freezing. Here is what I have been using that works well without breaking the bank:
- For a sturdy base, I have no complaints with the Manfrotto Element MII Aluminum Tripod. It is light enough to hike with but has a hook on the bottom where you can hang your backpack to keep it from tipping in the Scottish wind.
- To get those mountain colors to pop and handle the reflections on the lochs, grab a Hoya 77mm Fusion One Next CIR-PL Filter. It screws right onto your 24-105mm and stays there most of the time for me.
- For the shaking issue, the Canon RS-80N3 Remote Switch is a lifesaver. It is super basic but way more reliable than the wireless ones that always seem to run out of juice at the wrong time.
- To keep everything dry, look at the Lowepro Fastpack BP 250 AW III. It has a built-in weather cover that I have used in heavy rain with zero issues. You definitely have enough budget for these bits. Just focus on learning how to use the tripod and that polarizer before you land in the Highlands. You are gonna have a blast!
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16/04/2026 12:05 am
^ This. Also, the Highlands wind is a total beast. Be careful with ultra-light travel tripods, they'll basically act like a sail. I'd suggest looking at the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB Aluminum Tripod Kit because it's heavy enough to stay put when things get gusty. For the silky water shots, square filters are a huge hassle in the rain. Just grab a Tiffen 77mm Variable Neutral Density Filter instead. It screws right on so you won't have to fumble with glass plates while your fingers are freezing. Also, since you're tight on cash, dont bother with a remote clicker yet. Just use the 2-second timer built into the camera... it kills the vibration for free. Make sure to get a Peak Design Shell Camera Rain Cover Medium tho. The 5D4 is tough but Scotland rain is on another level. Better to be safe than have a dead camera halfway through your trip.
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16/04/2026 12:15 am
To add to the point above: I've no complaints and am satisfied with the gear. Honestly, accessory pricing is a total scam.
- Pricing is insane.
- Quality is dropping.
