Lens Hoods

Photographing with lens hoods

Many newcomers to photography ask themselves the question: do cameras have to have lens hoods?

A lens hood is an absolute requirement for photography, because it prevents reflections caused by sunlight or artificial light sources and without it every lens is overstrained. If you want to use a lens hood, you must make sure that your lens has a special bayonet mount or filter thread.

When the search becomes a torture

Most photographers have experienced this. The search for the lens cap begins. Now manufacturing companies have come up with something. There is the lens hood and lens cap in one! However, this combination cap is not yet available for all filter diameters. This cap is opened. It is divided in the middle and is opened. In this way, the function of a lens hood is taken over. In doing so, you not only protect your lens, but stray light and reflections are also avoided.

Tips and tricks

With a lens hood, disturbing and unwanted effects on the photos are avoided. This will help you achieve the best possible picture. Photography is also about proper light management. There are different models of lens hoods. These are often made of rubber or hard plastic. However, metal lens hoods are also available in the upper price segment. There are also differences in the way they are attached to the lens. There is the classic bayonet mount, which is similar to the one between the camera and the lens. The advantage of this is that it is quick and easy to use. There is also a firm hold. There are also apertures that are screwed onto the filter thread of the lens. But a clamp connection is also possible. In this case, the lens hood is attached to the lens. There is no thread here.

But there are different variants not only in the attachment, but also in the shape. The tulip-shaped lens hood is usually found on wide-angle lenses. The round shape is used on telephoto lenses.

Will the focal length be affected?

The length of the lens hood depends on the focal length of the lens. If this focal length is large, then the lens hood can also be larger. This is not visible later in the picture. A wide-angle lens is usually shorter than a telephoto lens. Here you can also use a smaller lens hood. Some manufacturers include these in the scope of delivery. The advantage is that they fit the lens perfectly. The focal length is also optimally matched.

Good reasons for using lens hoods

Whether you are a novice or a professional: lens hoods always raise questions. There is often a debate about their use. Experienced photographers use this aperture to get better photos. It often remains on the lens. Every now and then, however, it is turned around. This way you have everything complete and you can work immediately. It is also a good protection against scratches and finger marks. It also acts as a shock absorber.

The use of a lens hood is definitely worthwhile. It improves the image quality in many situations. Also, this lens hood is also an effective protection against external influences. You will achieve good results with your pictures. The lens hood belongs in every photo bag and is of course available in our shop. We hope you enjoy browsing and are of course available to answer any questions you may have.