Lens hood...

[defintelymaybe]

I'm looking for a lens hood for my 17-85mm Canon lens; are these really that essential? And any recommendations?

 

[PsiFox]

Can cut down flare.

May protect the end of the lens when you turn and swing it into a wall or something.

Plenty on Ebay to choose from.

 

[defintelymaybe]

Is there a particular diameter size I should be looking for?

 

[PsiFox]

Whatever the manual for your lens says or gives a Canon type no.

Dunno specifics I use Nikon

 

[DeadlySmurf]

May protect the end of the lens when you turn and swing it into a wall or something.

Do you do that often ??

 

[StewartR]

Is there a particular diameter size I should be looking for?

Lens hoods are usually specific to individual lenses, because they have to (A) physically fit on the end of the lens and (B) offer the maximum amount of shading whilst (C) not being visible in the frame anywhere in the zoom range.

The Canon EF-S 17-85mm f4-5.6 IS USM requires an EW-73B hood. This might be a good place to buy them. Or you can get usually get cheap copies on eBay.

 

[PsiFox]

Do you do that often ??

No but I've had people push past me and knock the camera before now.

 

[kevin_c]

Do you do that often ??

Just the once is usually enough, then you'll think "Why didn't I have a hood fitted" - A hood does give pretty good physical protection, and helps cut down flare.

 

[defintelymaybe]

OK, it seems like the going rate for a genuine Canon product is around £20; anyone any suggestions to where I might be able to pick one up a little cheaper (genuine of course)?

Thanks.