All the products in this kit were just what I wanted, except for the camera bag. In all fairness, the bag has lots of good pockets and seemed convenient, with its adjustable separators. When I actually used the bag, however, I found the plastic buckles were too hard for me to open, especially outdoors in cooler weather. I am 74 and my grip is not nearly as strong as it used to be a younger person would likely not find this to be a problem. While the shoulder strap is attached to the side, the shorter handles are attached to the 'lid' so the buckles have to be closed in order to carry the bag that way. I actually had to have my husband carry it and open it for me every time I wanted to switch to a different lens, a filter, etc. Hence I did not have fast access to changing lenses, filters, and such for my new Canon Ti4. As a result, I lost some photo opportunities. Also I was often stuck holding the lens cap, trying to find a handy place to put it when I wanted to take a picture, e.g. of flying seagulls.
I have since purchased a Case Logic camera bag which was clearly designed by someone with 'user experience'. The case is a little on the small side, and does not hold everything I need comfortably. But it is easy for me to deal with the zips, and the velcro closure on the separate protective camera case which comes with the bag. The very lightweight, separate camera case drops into the center compartment of the bag, has a pocket for the lens cap, and attaches to the camera strap so that it is quick to take the camera out thereby leaving the small case dangling from the camera strap while shooting. The whole camera bag also has a plastic protective base, so it is safe put it down on the ground, wet or dry. Yes, I realize that this is not a review of a Case Logic camera bag, but I just wanted to point out some of the more useful features that camera bags could have!
The tripod is sturdy, and collapses easily into a convenient carry mode. I tested the remote, and was happy to find that I can hold it close to the camera and it still works. This is useful when my camera is on its tripod and I want to take a picture of our resident red squirrel in the backyard, without going outside or risking camera shake.
It is always a good idea to have a spare battery charged up.
I don't really have any comments on the filters or lens hood.
The little carrying case for SD cards is useful and gives good protection where it is needed.
All in all, an excellent kit. I priced the items separately, and this kit is very definitely good value. I would rate it with 5 stars if the camera case had a different closure system.
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