An interesting discovery

[Nearsighted]

I've always kept a UV filter on the lens of my GS as protection. I don't have a cap for it. The filter has served its purpose but I think it may also have added to the lens being prone to flare. Today I discovered that a white Nikon body cap (one of the newer ones) fits over the outside of the lens on my GS perfectly. So off goes the filter! I'm attaching a sample lens flair picture just for fun. the funny part is the sun wasn't even near the front of the lens. See the shadows.

 

[JRJacobs]

Filters certainly can contribute to lens flare. I have experienced it with other cameras as well.

 

[Michiel]

I use a filter for the same reason, but another one as well. The metal sticking out at the front of the lens (with the thread in it) is quite soft and will dent easily. Having a filter on it will prevent that.

 

[Todd Frederick]

You can get a really nice 55mm metal lens hood from this site for about $12 here: http://www.thecamerahunter.com/

Get the "55mm normal metal lens hood." It doesn't cut off the rangefinder since it is flat and not flaired like the rubber hoods.

 

[Nearsighted]

Thanks Todd, I just ordered one. Just to make sure, is this the hood you were reffering to?

EYB55DMH 55mm Metal Lens Hood for 24mm to long telephoto lens.

It's the only metal hood I saw for 55mm threads. Please let me know if there is another one I may have missed.