Really Really stupid question....

SJD2011

SJD2011

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Sam
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I apologise in advance for the stupidity of this question - I am a keen and (very) amateur newbie at the moment, but working to improve my knowledge of all things photography/dslr related..

So, here is the question - what is the function of lens hoods? Do they add/ detract anything from the image/view? I have one that came with my camera, but it doesnt really say what/ when it should be used?

Sorry for the idiocy. I will get better I promise and stop asking silly questions!

Thanks :bonk:
 
It isn't a silly question!
Perhaps the primary use of a lens hood is to eliminate unwanted direct light that could cause a 'flare' on the image, (though some people like a bit of flare sometimes!).
Secondly it serves in a way to protect the camera front lens glass as it will most likely be knocked before the lens glass as it's sticking out in front.
 
No, not a stupid question

If you don't ask ...

As above really, lens flare and protection
 
Plus the hood keeps sticky fingers and mist/drizzle off the glass.

I'd recommend putting the hood on the lens hood unless there is a strong reason not to!
For example using internal flash where the hood will cast shadows and macro photography where the hood will get in the way.
 
Thanks for not laughing! LOL!

Ah, lens flare! I had this on a shot and figured it was a backflash from the sun...now I know how to minimise it!

Thanks very much all
 
I sometimes hold my hand out above the lens (but out of view) to shade direct sunlight falling on the lens. Wide angle lens hoods don't do much shading as they have to allow a wide field of view.
 
The only stupid question is the one that does not get asked!

As above really but I would add that if you're into motorsport and are taking shots against a fence then the hood is essential to protect the front element of the lens.

Paul.
 
RobertP said:
I sometimes hold my hand out above the lens (but out of view) to shade direct sunlight falling on the lens. Wide angle lens hoods don't do much shading as they have to allow a wide field of view.
Click to expand...

I often do this as well - particularly when my wife is using her P&S :)

By stopping the unwanted light it can also improve the contrast as otherwise the extra light gets spread all over the picture and give a washed out effect.
 
The hood also makes your lens look bigger and more impressive to others :D
 
Can also be useful (not petal type) to place flat against glass to reduce reflections e.g. when taking photos through glass in zoo/wildlife park etc.
 
gramps said:
It isn't a silly question!
Perhaps the primary use of a lens hood is to eliminate unwanted direct light that could cause a 'flare' on the image, (though some people like a bit of flare sometimes!).
Secondly it serves in a way to protect the camera front lens glass as it will most likely be knocked before the lens glass as it's sticking out in front.
Click to expand...

:plusone: And dont forget Sam they make ideal Pastry cutters :thumbs:
 
It's not a stupid question....it's one I'd never even thought of and wouldn't know why either! Thanks!
 
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