Do i need a Hood on a Nikon 50mm

[jollyjack]

I got hold of a AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D yesterday. The HR 2 Hood is optional, do i need to get this Hood? What do you recommend.

 

[andy_fozzy]

Hiya matey.

Not sure if you actually need a hood as such, but I just got a £5 rubber hood from Jessops for my 50mm.
I'm actually very pleased with it.

Jessops!

 

[davekiddle]

A hood will help increase contrast, reduce flare and protect the front element. Having said that, the front element on the 50mm 1.8D is fairly recessed so probably won't get damaged, so I would buy a cheapo rubber one as Andy has done.

 

[ERU]

What do people think of these to go with a Nikon D40 stock lens?

 

[puddleduck]

The front element is well recessed, so this is one lens I'd not bother with a hood for.

 

[davekiddle]

What do people think of these to go with a Nikon D40 stock lens?

Yep, they look OK

 

[AnnaV]

I quite like the idea of the smaller lens making you look less conspicuous, which would be a little bit ruined by the hood in my opinion.

 

[puddleduck]

What do people think of these to go with a Nikon D40 stock lens?

If you mean the 18-55 kit lens, I have a feeling that will vignette or even show up in the frame on the wide end. I think you will need something "petal" shaped.

 

[Arkady]

It's like insurance really - in the event that you do need it, it's too late if you don't have it...

 

[velonoir]

I had a similar query in mind, didn't realise the hood would improve contrast as well as reducing lens flare.