What Does A Camera Lens Hood Do And Why Do You Need It

Is it hot where you are taking photos right now? You have probably put on sunscreen and worn a hat so that the harsh rays won’t bother you. But do you know your camera lens needs sun protection too?

Find out the answer and know what does a camera lens hood do to address this.

What Is A Lens Hood?

A lens hood looks like a short tube or a ring. It is a device attached in front of a camera lens to provide protection.

A lens hood works best for normal, telephoto, and zoom lenses. However, it is best not to use this accessory with a wide-angle lens as the lens hood will most likely appear in your photo.

Camera lens hood is an accessory included in new camera kits. However, some photographers rarely use it. As you read along and learn what does a lens hood do, we hope that you will be convinced to use one.

Lens Hood Shapes

You may see photographers using different shapes or sizes of lens hood. As to shape, there are two main types: 

1. Standard petal lens hood. It was named as such because of its uneven curved notches. Its longer ‘petals’ block stray light, while the shorter ones allow more light into the corners of the image.
    
2. Cylindrical or conical lens hood. This hood is typically used on telephoto lenses. It looks like a lampshade or cone.

If your lens has longer focal length and smaller angle of view, you should use a longer lens hood. The length of the hood should increase as focal length increases and the angle of view reduces.     

As to size, no lens would fit all lens types.  

Purpose

Try putting on a lens hood on your camera lens. See how it looks cooler? However, lens hoods do more than just making your camera look good. Let’s answer your question, “What is lens hood purpose?”

Protection From Unwanted Light

A lens hood blocks strong sunlight and unwanted light. If your camera is a person, lens hood serves like a visor or a cap when you are in the sunny outdoors.

Strong, unwanted light lowers the quality of your images. It causes distracting flares and ghosting. More so, it reduces the sharpness and contrast of your photographs.

Lens hoods are not only for outdoor use. You may keep your lens hood on even when shooting indoors. There might still be some stray lights that could affect your photos. However, if there are no stray lights, it won’t make any difference.

Protection From Impact

Admit it, there are rare times that your grip on the camera loosens, sending it off to the floor; or somebody could accidentally knock it off the table or bump it on a wall.

If you have camera lens hood on, there is less to worry. It protects your lens from the accidental impact on hard surfaces or any surface.

Moreover, it keeps your oily fingers away from the lens surface. Fingerprints may cause smudges to your lens.

Conclusion

Understanding what does a camera lens hood do may have convinced you to use one now. Using your lens hood indoors or outdoors is always a good idea. It protects your camera and the photos you take.