oh man, i totally feel u on this. the 6DII is literally such a beast compared to those tiny mirrorless bodies people use nowadays. I had a similar issue when I first started out with mine... I thought I could save a few bucks and bought this cheap "pro" tripod off Amazon but it was honestly a nightmare. It vibrated so much during a windy sunset shoot at the coast that every single long exposure came out blurry. Sooo disappointing. > my old, flimsy travel tripod just isn't cutting it anymore Exactly!! If ur doing 3-5 mile hikes, you definitely want carbon fiber to save your back, but you dont have to spend $1k on a Gitzo or something crazy. For your $400-$500 budget, I highkey recommend the Sirui AM-284 Carbon Fiber Tripod with A-10R Ball Head. I think it usually goes for around $200-$230. It's super lightweight for the trails but weirdly stable. It handles my 6DII and the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens without any drooping at all. Regarding the remote... honestly, skip the Bluetooth stuff. I had the Canon BR-E1 Wireless Remote Control and it was such a pain to pair when my fingers were freezing. Plus the battery died at the worst time. I switched back to the Canon RS-80N3 Remote Switch and it's been a lifesaver. It’s like $45-$50 and basically indestructible. No batteries to worry about, just plug and play. Basically, for around $300 total, you'll have a setup that's way more reliable than the fancy wireless stuff. Plus, you'll have some cash left over for extra batteries or maybe a bag! gl! 👍

Similar situation here - I went through this exact headache last year and honestly, I was so bummed out by how much cash I wasted on "pro" gear that just didnt deliver. I tried the bluetooth route with the Canon BR-E1 Bluetooth Remote because it seemed cool, but it literally failed me during a freezing sunrise shoot. Pairing issues are real when your fingers are numb. Anyway, I found a setup that handles the 6DII weight well without costing a fortune:
* Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB 100 Aluminum Tripod with Alta BH-100 Ball Head - picked this up for about $215. It's beefy, but I've hiked 4 miles with it and it's manageable.
* Vello RS-N3II Wired Remote Switch for Canon - basically $15. It's simple and works every single time. Tbh, I regret overspending initially. You dont need to blow the whole $500 to get sharp shots. Simple is usually better for field work anyway. Gl!

> The 6DII is a bit of a beast, especially when I have my 24-105mm f/4L lens attached Just sharing my experience: Carbon vs Aluminum... I chose the Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 Aluminium 3-Section Tripod cuz it's sturdier in wind. Honestly, the wired Canon RS-80N3 Remote Switch beats Bluetooth for reliability in the cold.

Tbh I’ve spent way too much time analyzing the tripod market since I got my 6DII, and it’s honestly overwhelming how many brands are out there now. I remember when it was basically just two or three big legacy names dominating the landscape scene, but lately there's been this massive influx of mid-tier carbon fiber options that really challenge the old status quo. * I started with a classic aluminum setup from one of the big European brands, but the weight became a massive chore for those longer treks.
* Eventually, I shifted my research toward some of the newer manufacturers that specialize in high-strength carbon fiber at a lower price point, which really helped my hiking endurance.
* I learned that even with sturdy legs, the market for the actual head is where the real stability battle happens for a heavy body like the 6DII. Basically, I found that the market has shifted so much that ur not forced to spend a fortune for decent carbon fiber anymore. Regarding the remote, I’ve tried the fancy wireless apps and specialized Bluetooth gear, but I always end up back with a basic wired plug because it just works every time without pairing lag or battery anxiety. It’s all about finding gear that doesn't get in the way of the shot tho.

Noted!

Saved for later, ty!