This tripod is a very good place to start, it does most things that most people will want to do and it is light enough to carry all day. Carries easily in a camera back pack or Manfrotto bag. Fit your camera and lens on top put your camera strap across your body and carry it at your side, ready for use. (Weather Permitting). It can be slightly unstable in very strong winds, as I found out recently, with some shaky pictures.
For long exposure shots it will do OK in most conditions, but, I will be getting something a bit more stable for that, when I can afford it. For now I am still very happy to use this tripod.
For an idea of what it can take weight wise, I have used it with an EOS 7D and grip and Sigma 150 - 500 lens, the photos turned out well.
I have had this tripod for 3 years, without any malfunctions. I use it a lot.
Extremely well made product as usual by Manfrotto, Amazon's price is extremely keen!!