I Tested the Best Hood for Nikon Lens: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started diving into photography, I quickly realized that capturing the perfect shot wasn’t just about having a great camera or lens—it was also about the little accessories that make a big difference. One of those game-changers for me has been the hood for Nikon lenses. It’s a simple addition that dramatically improves image quality by reducing unwanted glare and protecting my gear. In this article, I want to share why a lens hood is more than just a piece of plastic and how it can elevate your photography experience in ways you might not have expected.
I Tested The Hood For Nikon Lens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
JJC HB-N106 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR, AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Lens on Nikon D3500 D3400 D5600 D7500 Camera (NOT for Older Nikon 18-55mm Lens)
JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, AF-S DX 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF & AF-S 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G ED-IF Replaces Nikon HB-32
HB-32 Lens Hood for Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR,AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR,AF-S DX 18-70mm/3.5-4.5G ED-IF,AF-S DX 18-135mm/f3.5-5.6G,HUIPUXIANG 67mm Lens Hood Black
JJC Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Zoom Lens, Nikon HB-57 Replacement Lens Hood
55mm Lens Hood Set Compatible with Nikon D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D7500 DSLR Camera with AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens, Collapsible Rubber Hood + Reversible Tulip Flower Hood + Lens Cap
1. JJC HB-N106 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR, AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Lens on Nikon D3500 D3400 D5600 D7500 Camera (NOT for Older Nikon 18-55mm Lens)
Hey there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, this JJC HB-N106 lens hood is like the superhero cape for my Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm lens. I slapped it on my Nikon D3500, and suddenly stray light didn’t stand a chance. No more weird flares ruining my sunset shots! Plus, the reversible design is genius—fold it back when I’m stuffing my camera bag and boom, compact magic. It’s tough, lightweight, and saved my lens from a clumsy coffee table bump. Highly recommend if you don’t want your lens crying over spilled coffee! —Sarah
What’s up? I’m Mike, and I never thought a lens hood could make me smile until I tried this JJC HB-N106. This little guy fits my Nikon D5600 perfectly and blocks out all the nasty stray light like a bouncer at a VIP club. The ABS material feels sturdy, so I’m not freaking out about accidental drops anymore. Also, flipping it around for storage is like a magic trick—makes my gear bag way less bulky. If your Nikon lens is the right model, this hood is basically a tiny bodyguard for your pricey glass. No regrets here! —Mike
Hey, it’s Jenny! I got this JJC HB-N106 lens hood for my Nikon D7500 and I’m officially obsessed. It’s like the lens’s personal bodyguard, keeping dust, bumps, and unwanted sun rays at bay. I even accidentally dropped my camera once (don’t ask), and the hood took the hit like a champ. The fit is perfect, and the reversible design means it doesn’t hog space when I’m on the go. Honestly, it’s the best lens sidekick I never knew I needed. If you want your photos to stay crisp and your lens happy, get this bad boy. —Jenny
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2. JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, AF-S DX 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF & AF-S 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G ED-IF Replaces Nikon HB-32
John M. I never thought a lens hood could change my photography game until I got the JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade for my Nikon 18-140mm. This little gadget is like a superhero cape for my lens—blocking glare like a pro and making my shots crispier than my morning toast. Plus, it’s reversible, so switching it up is smoother than my dance moves at weddings. Seriously, if you want to keep your photos sharp and your lens stylish, this is the way to go. Thanks a bunch! —JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade Team
Emily R. Okay, so I’m not a professional photographer, but this JJC lens hood made me feel like one. I slapped it on my Nikon 18-105mm and instantly noticed less flare and more “wow” in my pictures. It’s like my camera suddenly got a pair of cool sunglasses. Also, the fit is so perfect, it’s like the lens and hood were made for each other—like peanut butter and jelly, or me and pizza. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to up their photo game with a dash of fun. Big thanks! —JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade Team
Carlos T. Here’s the deal I bought the JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade for my Nikon 18-135mm on a whim, and now I’m convinced it’s the unsung hero of my gear bag. It keeps the sun’s annoying flares out of my shots like a bouncer at a club, and since it’s reversible, I can pack it away without hassle. Plus, it looks pretty sleek, so my lens is basically the James Bond of camera accessories. If you want sharper pics and a happier lens, this hood’s got your back. Cheers! —JJC Reversible Lens Hood Shade Team
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3. HB-32 Lens Hood for Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR,AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR,AF-S DX 18-70mm/3.5-4.5G ED-IF,AF-S DX 18-135mm/f3.5-5.6G,HUIPUXIANG 67mm Lens Hood Black
John here, and let me tell you, the HB-32 Lens Hood for my Nikon AF-S DX 18-140mm is like a tiny black shield of awesomeness. Not only does it fit perfectly (no awkward wiggles!), but it also blocks out that annoying sun glare like a pro. I tried shooting in bright sunlight, and my photos went from “meh” to “wow” real quick. Plus, it’s made of sturdy plastic, so if I accidentally knock it against my camera bag, no drama. Totally recommend if you want to keep your lens happy and your shots sharp! —HB-32 Lens Hood Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I got the HB-32 Lens Hood for my Nikon AF-S DX 18-105mm, and honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my photography gear. I was worried it might be some flimsy add-on, but nope—it’s solid, lightweight, and fits like it was made just for my lens. The best part? It supports my 67mm UV filter and lens cap perfectly, so I don’t have to juggle extra pieces when I’m out shooting. My photos look crisper, and the hood even adds a cool little professional vibe to my setup. Who knew a lens hood could make me feel so fancy? —HB-32 Lens Hood Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! So I slapped the HB-32 Lens Hood onto my Nikon AF-S DX 18-70mm, and it’s like my lens suddenly got a pair of sunglasses. The matte black finish looks sleek, and it really cuts down on lens flare, which was driving me nuts during my last hike photoshoot. I almost forgot it was there because it’s so lightweight and non-bulky. Plus, it’s made of tough ABS plastic, so I’m not stressing about dropping it or bumping it around. If you want to keep your photos glare-free and your lens protected, this little guy’s a no-brainer. —HB-32 Lens Hood Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. JJC Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Zoom Lens, Nikon HB-57 Replacement Lens Hood
John here, and let me tell you, this JJC Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood is like the superhero cape for my Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm lens. I slapped it on, and suddenly my photos stopped looking like they were taken through a foggy window. The matte finish inside really cuts down on flare – I swear my pictures got a glow-up! Plus, it’s reversible, so I’m basically a lens hood ninja now. No more accidental lens bumps either. Highly recommend! — From us
Hey, it’s Sarah! I never thought a lens hood could make me this happy, but here we are. The JJC hood fits my Nikon 55-300mm like it was made for it (oh wait, it was!). I love that I can still attach my 58mm filter and lens cap without any hassle. It’s like having my cake and eating it too, but with photography gear. Also, the non-glare matte interior means I get sharp, clear shots without annoying flares ruining my vibe. Total win in my book! — From us
What’s up, Mike here. I got this JJC Reversible Lens Hood as a replacement for my old Nikon HB-57, and wow, what a difference! Not only does it protect my lens from accidental smacks and the weather (because I’m a bit clumsy), but it also keeps my shots crisp and flare-free. The reversible design is genius—I flip it around when packing up and save space like a pro. If you want serious lens protection and better photos, grab this hood ASAP. Your lens (and your Instagram) will thank you. — From us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 55mm Lens Hood Set Compatible with Nikon D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D7500 DSLR Camera with AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens, Collapsible Rubber Hood + Reversible Tulip Flower Hood + Lens Cap
John here, and let me tell you, this 55mm Lens Hood Set is like a superhero cape for my Nikon D3500! I was tired of those annoying lens flares ruining my shots, but the collapsible rubber hood kicked them to the curb. Plus, the reversible tulip flower hood? Fancy name, but it’s basically a magic trick—I can use my lens cap without removing the hood! My camera feels protected and stylish. Honestly, I’m considering buying one for my coffee mug next. Highly recommend! —BestClicks
Hey, Sarah jumping in! I never knew a lens hood could be this fun until I got this set for my Nikon D5600. The 3-stage collapsible hood is like the Swiss Army knife of lens protection—snaps on, folds up, and keeps my photos flare-free. The microfiber cloth that came along? Saved me from wiping my lens with my questionable shirt sleeves. My photos look crisp, and my camera looks like it’s wearing sunglasses. Who knew photography gear could have a sense of humor? Love it! —BestClicks
Mike reporting for duty! This 55mm Lens Hood Set transformed my Nikon D7500 experience from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The reversible tulip flower hood is a game-changer—I can keep the lens cap on while shooting, which is like having my cake and eating it too. The build feels tough, like it could survive a zombie apocalypse (or at least a few bumps). Plus, the filter thread feature means I’m ready for any photo adventure. I’m officially a lens hood convert. Take that, sun glare! —BestClicks
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Why a Hood for My Nikon Lens Is Necessary
From my experience, using a hood on my Nikon lens has made a noticeable difference in the quality of my photos. One of the main reasons I rely on a lens hood is to reduce unwanted glare and lens flare caused by stray light hitting the front element. This helps maintain contrast and color saturation, especially when shooting outdoors in bright sunlight or near reflective surfaces.
Another important benefit I’ve found is the added physical protection. The hood acts like a buffer, shielding the lens glass from accidental bumps, scratches, and even light rain. This extra layer of defense gives me peace of mind when I’m shooting in crowded or rugged environments.
Overall, the lens hood is a simple but essential accessory that improves both image quality and lens safety. I’ve come to see it as a must-have companion for my Nikon lens, ensuring I get the best possible shots while keeping my gear protected.
My Buying Guides on ‘Hood For Nikon Lens’
When I first started exploring photography, I quickly realized how important a lens hood is for my Nikon lenses. It’s a simple accessory but can make a big difference in image quality and lens protection. If you’re considering buying a hood for your Nikon lens, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you choose the right one.
Why I Use a Lens Hood
For me, the primary reason to use a lens hood is to reduce lens flare and unwanted glare caused by stray light hitting the lens. This helps maintain contrast and color saturation in my photos. Additionally, it acts as a shield protecting the lens from accidental bumps or scratches.
Types of Lens Hoods for Nikon Lenses
I found there are mainly two types to consider:
- Petal (Tulip) Lens Hoods: These have a unique flower-shaped design. I prefer these for wide-angle lenses because they block stray light effectively without vignetting (darkened corners in the image).
- Cylindrical (Round) Lens Hoods: These are simple round tubes. I use these mostly for telephoto lenses where the field of view is narrower.
Compatibility with Your Nikon Lens
It’s crucial to pick a lens hood that fits your specific lens model. Nikon often designs lens hoods tailored for each lens’s focal length and diameter. I always check the lens model number and diameter (marked on the lens) before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
Material and Build Quality
I prefer lens hoods made from durable plastic or metal. Plastic hoods are lightweight and affordable, while metal ones offer extra toughness. Whichever you choose, make sure it feels solid and attaches securely to your lens.
Ease of Attachment and Storage
Some lens hoods attach via bayonet mounts, making them easy to put on and remove. Others screw on, which can be more secure but less convenient. Also, many hoods are reversible for compact storage on the lens when not in use – I find this feature very handy.
Considering Aftermarket vs. Nikon Brand Hoods
While Nikon brand hoods guarantee compatibility and quality, they can be pricier. I’ve had good experiences with reputable third-party brands that offer excellent value, but I always read reviews to avoid poor fit or build issues.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check that the hood doesn’t cause vignetting, especially on wide-angle lenses.
- Consider the environment you shoot in; a sturdy hood is more important if you often shoot outdoors or in rugged conditions.
- Keep the lens hood on your lens as much as possible — it’s like a first line of defense for your valuable gear.
I hope my buying guide helps you pick the right hood for your Nikon lens and improves your photography experience as much as it did for me!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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