Choosing Between Lens Hood and Filter for Your DSLR

If you've recently invested in a 18-55mm to 70-300mm kit for your new DSLR, understanding the role of lens hoods and filters is crucial to protect your lens and improve image quality. This article aims to clarify the differences between these two accessories and provide guidance on when and how to use them effectively.

Understanding Hood and Filters

Firstly, it’s important to understand that lens hoods and filters are two different types of equipment, each serving distinct purposes. Lens hoods are designed to reduce lens flare and protect the lens from minor scratches and damage. Filters, on the other hand, offer various functionalities such as protection and specific photographic effects.

While you can use either a lens hood or a filter, you cannot use both simultaneously. Instead, you need to choose based on the situation and your specific needs. This decision involves balancing the practical and aesthetic aspects of using these accessories in your photography workflow.

When to Use a Lens Hood

Lens hoods are particularly useful for your telephoto lens (70-300mm). They significantly reduce lens flare and help protect the front element of your lens from dust and minor scratches. For wide-angle lenses (18-55mm), the utility of a lens hood is somewhat limited because the flare that enters wide-angle shots can be minimized to a lesser extent. However, using a lens hood can still be beneficial, especially when shooting in bright, reflective conditions.

“It is a wise option to use a lens hood with a 70–300mm lens, while a 18–55mm lens may not benefit as much from one due to the wide angle nature of the lens.”

When to Use a Camera Filter

Camera filters, particularly UV protectors, can be tempting, especially due to their relatively low cost. However, using a UV filter is not always the best option. Here are some reasons why you might consider avoiding a UV filter:

Existing lenses and sensors already do a good job of blocking UV light, making a UV filter redundant. Adding a UV filter introduces an extra layer of glass, which can slightly reduce image quality and sometimes increase glare and internal reflection issues. For close-up shots, a UV filter is very close to the front element and offers little protective value. In the event of a hard impact, glass shards from the filter can scratch the front lens element.

That said, there are situations where a UV filter can be useful:

Rough conditions: Such as blowing sand or dust, where the filter gets destroyed and saves the lens front element.

For more practical and impactful filters, consider:

Circular Polarizers: These filters control reflections off of water (including dew), glass, and can darken skies, creating more dramatic scenes. Neutral Density Filters: These filters allow for longer exposures, ideal for capturing dreamy waterfalls and seashores.

Personal Recommendations and Practical Considerations

While some photographers prefer a UV filter to protect the lens, it’s essential to weigh the costs. A UV filter costs around $20, while a good lens hood can be significantly cheaper. However, investing in a high-quality lens hood can save you from having to replace a scratched lens, which could cost several thousands of dollars.

“I would suggest using a UV filter because it protects the lens. An expensive filter might be worth the investment to avoid spending significantly more on lens repairs or replacements.”

Practicality also plays a significant role. Carrying a long lens with a lens hood attached can be cumbersome. Newer design lenses with hood attachments that allow the hood to store in a reverse position are more convenient. Lens hoods for wide-angle lenses are often more important than for telephoto lenses. Using your free hand to shield against glare is a more effective and practical alternative in some shooting situations.

In conclusion, the choice between using a lens hood or a filter depends on the specific conditions and needs of your photography. Consider the protection and image quality benefits, and choose wisely to enhance your DSLR photography.