Landscape Photography Tips and Accessories
By John Armytage – Port Macquarie Photographer - Website
Tacking Point Lighthouse - Midnorth Coast Workshop
Over the years as a landscape photographer in Port Macquarie and Nationally and Internationally, I’ve spent countless early mornings and late evenings out in the elements — from misty valleys and rocky coastlines to rain-soaked lookouts. Experience has taught me that preparation is everything.
Below I’ve listed some handy accessories and essential tips I’ve discovered over the years to help make your next landscape photography adventure more enjoyable and successful.
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Some of these Accessories you may want to Carry with You When Doing Landscape Photography
Elastic Bands – Wrap them around your tripod for those windy days. Great for securing loose straps or holding your remote and Filter Bag.
Garbage Bag – Perfect to kneel or lie on when the ground is wet or muddy.
Shower Cap – Slip it over your camera if rain or sea spray hits unexpectedly.
10c Coin – Handy for tightening quick-release plate screws.
Chamois – Useful for drying or cleaning gear.
Head Torch – Essential for early morning or sunset shoots. Also pack paper towel to clean sea spray off filters. I use a Rechargeable one.
Wet Wipes – For quick clean-ups.
Mozzie Spray, Hand Sanitiser, Snacks, and Water – Keep yourself comfortable and focused.
Salt Sachets – Great for dealing with leeches in the bush or Waterfalls!
Tissues or a Small Toilet Roll – You’ll thank yourself later.
Filters, Lenses, Camera, GorillaPod, Camera Cover, Disposable Raincoat, Rubbish Bag, and Snacks – The essentials.
Ocky Strap – Multi-purpose for securing gear or tripod.
Compact Umbrella – Good for both shade and light rain.
A4 Black Board – Perfect for fireworks photography to block the lens between bursts.
Filters – 1.2 Soft Grad, 6 Stop, 10 Stop, 15 Stop, and a Circular Polariser are my go-tos.
Suggested Lenses – 15–35mm, 24–70mm, and 70–200mm cover most landscape scenarios.
Sturdy Tripod – Get one that extends to your height — stability is key.
Rock Shoes with Spikes – For slippery rocks and coastal shoots.
40L Camera Backpack – Fits all your essentials and can usually go as carry-on when flying.
Spare Fully Charged Batteries – Always have extras ready.
Remote Trigger – For long exposures and reducing camera shake.
SD Cards – Double-check they’re in your camera before you leave home!
Lens Cloth – Keep lenses and filters spotless.
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Landscape Photography Tips
Research Before You Buy – Don’t get caught in the trap of buying gear you don’t need. I’ve wasted plenty on unnecessary gadgets over the years.
Slow Down – Don’t rush when the conditions are great. Take your time to compose thoughtfully.
Invest in Quality Glass – Good lenses last decades. Buy once, buy well.
Photograph What You Love – Shoot for yourself first; passion shows in your work.
Be Patient – One great shot is better than three average ones. Wait for the right moment.
Wait for the Light – Great landscapes are all about timing and light.
Tripod Quality Matters – It’s one of the most important investments you’ll make.
Shoot in RAW Format – Gives you maximum flexibility in post-processing.
Learn to Edit – Editing is part of the creative process — embrace it.
Check Your Gear Before Every Shoot – My quick checklist:
Body / Lens / Charged Batteries / SD Cards / Filter Rings / Filters / Remote Trigger / Lens Cloth / Rock Shoes / Shower Cap / Tripod / Chamois.
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Final Thoughts
Landscape photography is a mix of patience, preparation, and passion. Whether you’re capturing sunrise over a Beach or the rolling hills, being ready for the conditions — and for the light — makes all the difference.
If you’re keen to take your skills to the next level, I also offer one-on-one landscape photography workshops in Port Macquarie, where we cover all these topics and more out in the field.
Queens Lake - Midnorth Coast Workshop
Crescent Head - Midnorth Coast Workshop
Landscape Photography Workshops - 2025 / 2026
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Trusted Photography Brands I Recommend
As a Port Macquarie photographer, Doing Landscape Photography all over the World, I’ve tested a lot of photography gear over the years, and I’ve found a few brands that consistently deliver exceptional quality for landscape photographers.
I’m proud to be a reseller for the following trusted brands: and give Exclusive deals on the following.
NiSi Filters – Industry-leading optical filters for landscape and long exposure photography.
Summit Creative – Durable, travel-friendly camera bags designed for photographers who explore beyond limits.
Leofoto Tripods – Professional, lightweight, and sturdy tripods built for precision and stability.
If you’re looking to purchase any of these products, message me directly for the best deal I can offer.
