Lens Hoods

[GLF]

What exactly is a lens hood suppose to do?

[Rayman96]

Mike, a lens hood is used to control the amount of light. When you have your subject in position and in focus, the light meter in the camera will get a truer reading.

It stops flaring in the lens from direct sunlight and remote flash.

[Nailer]

Used to prevent flare. Fits on the end of you lens. Most higher end lenses come with them.