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When is it best to use a lens hood?

Release Date:

2020-07-09 11:53

Source:

　　A light‑blocking ring serves to prevent stray light; for example, it’s used in smartphone camera lenses and other imaging lenses. It’s made by stamping SOMA light‑blocking material into shape and is embedded within the lens as a Mylar sheet. Because of its light‑blocking function, it’s commonly referred to as a light‑blocking ring or a light‑blocking shim.

　　Its operating principle is based on the physical phenomenon of pinhole imaging, and its manufacturing requirements are quite stringent. Consequently, it places high demands on the materials used; in the market, Japanese SOMA light‑blocking materials are predominantly employed.

　　When to use a lens hood:

　　Preventing flare and enhancing contrast: The primary purpose of a lens hood is to reduce the likelihood of lens flare, which often appears in images as colored spots—particularly in backlit or sidelit conditions—and is mainly caused by internal scattering or reflection of light within the lens. Additionally, a lens hood can improve overall contrast and color rendition in photographs.

　　If you don’t want lens flare like the one shown above in your photos, it’s best to use a lens hood. When shooting directly at the sun, a lens hood won’t be effective, but when the sun—or any light source—is off‑frame, it can indeed help prevent flare.

　　Protect the lens: When you’re on the move, your camera may occasionally bump into things. A lens hood can help shield the lens from damage.

　　When not to use a lens hood:

　　Creating a halo effect: If you want to achieve a halo effect as described above, avoid using a lens hood and tilt the lens at an angle to produce some flare or fading.

　　When using the built-in flash: The lens hood may sometimes block light from the built-in flash from reaching the subject, resulting in a shadow in the lower-middle portion of the image.

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