In the market for a tripod head

just get anything rated up to like 20Lbs and enjoy shooting. manfrotto is good but not the best. just a very recognizable name brand that has great products.

for me satchler or vinten are top companies but they specialize more in professional video tripods which are not what you need anyway

Overkill for a D5100. If you want a ballhead, find the smallest/lightest from a reputable manufacturer that holds your required weight, within a budget you can stomach.

The 3047 head is nice. I have one on my second tripod.

However, on my primary, I have an Arca-Swiss B-1, which is the last head I plan to ever need. Although you can't get the B-1 new anymore, the new ones from RRS are about their equal in quality. With the B-1 I also use a Wimberley Sidekick with my larger lenses. With RRS plates and heads all around, swapping them is easy. I shoot primarily wildlife and scenics, and in the field having a long lens on the tripod with a mid-range zoom on a monopod is excellent for kritter action.

Ball-heads aren't for everyone though. For what you want to shoot, the 3047 should fit your needs. Buildings and mountains don't move too fast, so having to adjust on 3 axes shouldn't be an issue.

As pointed out, Manfrotto's are not the most glamorous of tripods, but I will swear by mine. I have the 3021 legs with the 3047 head, the 3221G legs with my ball-head, and a monopod (dunno the model #) and have owned and heavily used all 3 since the late 80's or so. They're probably older than most of the members here.

I've used them in hip-deep water and snow, banged them amongst the rocks, stuck them in mud, and have not had a single part fail. They are as rock-steady as the day I bought them. I usually just rinse them off with the hose when I get home and put them up wet. I will not claim that they are the lightest, but that's not why I have them.

One thing I don't like about Manfrotto is their quick release system. The hexagonal plates always rubbed me the wrong way. I love the RRS system and have L-brackets and clamps on all my equipment. (No, I don't work for them)

Just my 2c worth...hope it helps,

Rich