Top 7 Camera Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed (But Shouldn’t Skip)
- gear4greatness
- Sep 15, 2025
- 6 min read
Updated: Oct 27, 2025
Top 7 Camera Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed (But Shouldn’t Skip)
When I bought my first serious camera, I figured the kit lens and a couple of batteries would cover everything. But over time — and a lot of trial and error — I realized that accessories make the difference between “nice shot” and “wow.” The little things matter. They shape how you shoot, how fast you work, and even how creative you can be when the light changes or the scene doesn’t go as planned.
These are the seven accessories I’ve added to my own setup that completely changed how I film and shoot.
1️⃣ ND Filters (Camera-Specific)
If I could only recommend one upgrade, this would be it. ND filters are game-changers for exposure control — they let you shoot with smooth, cinematic motion instead of jittery, overexposed footage. The trick is getting the right ones for your camera, not the cheapest ones online.
Here’s what’s worked best for me:
GoPro Hero 13 / 14 – Enduro-friendly ND packs that handle bright trails and fast motion.
DJI Action 5 Pro – The PolarPro or K&F Concept ND kits have been perfect for balancing sky and highlights.
DJI Mini 4 Pro Drone – ND filters here are non-negotiable. They’re what make skies, lakes, and moving water look like a movie.
DJI 360 Camera – Dual-lens ND filters that keep exposures consistent on both sides.
Insta360 X4 / X5 – 360° ND filters prevent stitch mismatches when reframing.
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 – Solid ND packs for hybrid vlogging and pro edits.
Once I started using proper NDs, my footage instantly looked more professional — even when I was just filming casual rides or travel clips.
2️⃣ L-Bracket for Mirrorless Cameras
This one doesn’t sound exciting until you use it. The L-bracket is one of those underrated tools that makes switching between landscape and portrait effortless. I use it with my Sony A7 IV, but it’s just as handy for Canon R6 Mark III or Fujifilm X100VI shooters.
If you’re into social content, it’s worth every cent — it keeps framing perfect whether you’re shooting horizontal for YouTube or vertical for Reels.
3️⃣ Extra Batteries & Chargers (Camera-Specific)
I’ve learned the hard way — running out of power kills creativity fast. These days, I always pack extra batteries and a dual or triple charger so I can rotate throughout the day.
Here’s what I rely on:
GoPro Hero 13 / 14 – Enduro batteries + dual charger.
DJI Action 5 Pro – DJI’s triple hub is the most efficient system I’ve used.
DJI 360 Camera – Dedicated hub with individual LEDs for quick checks.
Insta360 X4 / X5 – Fast Charge Hub with extra cells keeps me rolling through long sessions.
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 – Dual dock works flawlessly overnight.
Sony A7 IV / A7R V – Genuine NP-FZ100s with a dual USB-C charger — dependable and long-lasting.
There’s something satisfying about finishing the day knowing I never once had to stop shooting because of a dead battery.
4️⃣ External Audio Solutions 🎤
I used to underestimate how much audio matters — until I listened back to a clip full of wind noise. That’s when I started caring about microphones.
Now, I don’t record anything serious without one of these:
DJI Mic 2 – Seamless integration with DJI Action 5 Pro, DJI Pocket 3, and DJI 360.
RØDE Wireless GO II – My go-to when I’m using Sony, Canon, or the Insta360 Ace Pro 2.
Insta360 Mic Air – Specifically made for the X5 — clean, crisp, and easy.
Great audio doesn’t just make your videos sound better; it makes them feel more professional.
5️⃣ Selfie Sticks (Invisible & Extended)
If you shoot with 360 or action cameras, you already know how valuable these are. The invisible selfie stick gives that floating, third-person view — like a drone that’s following you.
My favorites:
Insta360 X4 / X5 & Ace Pro 2 – The invisible stick works like magic.
DJI 360 – The extended carbon fiber version gives those epic overhead reveals.
GoPro Hero 13 / 14 – A compact tripod/selfie stick combo that’s perfect for handheld or travel vlogging.
It’s still amazing to me how much these little sticks can transform the look of your shots.
6️⃣ Folding Reflector
Lighting makes or breaks an image, even outside. A 5-in-1 folding reflector has become a must in my kit. I can control light, fill shadows, or soften harsh sun without any batteries, cords, or stands. It folds up small enough to fit in my backpack, and it’s perfect for portrait days or indoor setups.
If you’re using a Sony, Canon, or Fuji mirrorless — this instantly levels up your lighting.
7️⃣ Cable Management Straps
This one’s simple but genius. Keeping cables organized might not sound creative, but it keeps your rig clean and prevents costly mistakes. I use Velcro cable straps for:
Sony / Canon rigs with external monitors
DJI gimbal setups
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 when running an external SSD
Clean rig = clean workflow. It’s one of those things you don’t appreciate until you trip over your own cables mid-shoot.
These accessories might not be flashy, but they’re the tools that make a real difference in the field. Once I started refining my setup with the right small gear, everything got smoother — setup, teardown, even how I think about my shots. Sometimes, it’s not about buying more gear; it’s about buying the right gear.
Top 7 Camera Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed (But Shouldn’t Skip)
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✅ Final Thoughts
✨ Cameras may grab the spotlight, but it’s the accessories that make your content shine. ND filters 🎞️ bring out cinematic skies, batteries 🔋 keep you powered through long shoots, and selfie sticks 📏 unlock impossible angles that wow your audience. Skip them, and you’re leaving creative potential on the table.
🎤 Audio matters too—external mics give your voice clarity and presence that no built-in mic can match. Whether it’s the DJI Mic 2 for action and vlogging setups, the RØDE Wireless GO II for mirrorless powerhouses, or the Insta360 Mic Air for immersive 360° content, the right audio gear turns a good video into a professional production.
🎯 No matter your setup—whether you’re exploring with a DJI 360, pushing boundaries with the Insta360 Ace Pro 2, vlogging adventures on a GoPro Hero 13, or crafting cinematic footage with a Sony A7 IV—the little details make the biggest difference. Build your kit smart, and you’ll elevate your work instantly 🚀📷.
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