Kent Photographer - Lens Hoods

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Here's a good question:

Hi again David,

I always see pro photographers using their lens hoods indoors - is this needed for flash photography? Does it do any harm leaving it on?

Thank you

Jane

Hi Jane,

I always have my lens hoods on - both indoors and outdoors. They reduce the chance of stray light being reflected within the lens, which causes flare and reduces contrast, and also offer increased protection for your lens.

If your camera has an in-built pop-up flash unit then a lens hood will probably cast a shadow on to your subject, but so will most big lenses without a lens hood. This can be avoided by using an external flash unit.

Yours,

David

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