What is that attachment on the end of camera lenses?

February 23, 2010 - 7:22 pm 3 Comments

It looks like 4 black flaps that are hinged. I see them on telephoto lenses.
What are they for?

A petal style lens hood. There are also plain, round hoods. Both are designed to keep light from coming into the lens from the side. The petal hoods are generally lens specific.

You may see actual hinged flaps on a larger, studio flash units, or on theater style continuous lighting. These systems are called barn doors, and are used to keep the light inside a certain area.

3 Responses to “What is that attachment on the end of camera lenses?”

  1. Jt C Says:

    A lens hood it stops light from comming in at angles to the lens barrel and causing lens flare
    References :

  2. Caoedhen Says:

    A petal style lens hood. There are also plain, round hoods. Both are designed to keep light from coming into the lens from the side. The petal hoods are generally lens specific.

    You may see actual hinged flaps on a larger, studio flash units, or on theater style continuous lighting. These systems are called barn doors, and are used to keep the light inside a certain area.
    References :

  3. Don Says:

    They are called a hood or lightshade or blinders and they are used to prevent external light from ruining the shot after exposure has been set.
    References :

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