Why use lens hoods when taking photos?
A camera lens is comprised of a combination of many convex or concave lens elements, with around 10 lens elements used for entry-level lenses and around 20 for high-grade lenses
The first thing many photographers throw out of their camera bag, due to lack of space, is the lens hood.
This often funny shaped piece of black plastic could, however, improve your photography.
The primary use of a lens hood is to prevent light from hitting the front lens element, thus reducing contrast and creating flare in the photograph.
A camera lens is comprised of a combination of many convex or concave lens elements, with around 10 lens elements used for entry-level lenses and around 20 for high-grade lenses.
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When strong light, such as sunlight, enters the lens it is reflected between the lens elements, which can result in lower image quality, such as flaring and ghosting.
Pictures taken with a camera fitted with a lens hood installed can have richer colours and deeper saturation.
Recent lenses also have a special coating on the surface inside.
This minimizes the reflection of light.
Protection
A secondary use for a lens hood is to protect the lens.
The damage prevented can range from a finger-printed front element (a minor inconvenience) to a broken front element (possibly a major expense and lost pictures/downtime).
Lens hoods are generally strong and stick out from the lens some distance.
Ultra wide angle lenses have very short hoods offering very little physical protection.
Lens hoods on longer focal length lenses offer more front lens element protection from rain and dust.
Do and don’ts of lens hoods
Lens hoods usually attach in reversed position for convenient, but compact, storage.
This is not advisable while shooting, as it is in the way of focusing rings on the lens when reversed.
The lens hood can also offer a convenience when a lens is attached to the camera so that it is ready for ‘action’.
Leave the hood installed (not reversed) and leave the lens cap off protects the front lens element.
Always us a lens hood, including indoors and see the difference.
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