as none of the large lenses use any form of front protection (i.e. - filters), the hoods are used to protect the front element.

Hoods also shield the lens element from moisture/rain, which was very helpful at the US vs Canada game last night in soccer, in which 2 inches or rain fell in 30 minutes.

When possible, most take their hoods off to prevent blocking the view of another photog while panning. This is especially common in soccer.


Mike S