Lens hood?

[butterfly.shel]

Hi this might be a stupid question but what it a hood? and why do you need one?
In what situation would you use one?

shel xx

[StewartR]

Wikipedia: Lens hood (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lens_hood)

[AlfaFoxtrot]

There aren't many reasons not to use one, it cuts down light problems (particularly on wide angles) and gives the front element more protection. Use it!

[DollyBuster]

Get some spare lens hoods here. FREE! (http://www.lenshoods.co.uk/)