Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsUV filter can align, but you will have to really tighten it to the point of discomfort.
Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2022
Let’s get straight to the point. I added a Hoya HD3 49mm UV filter and found that the Hoag hood can be tightened and aligned correctly. However, you will have to add an uncomfortable amount of pressure to do so. The camera did not break, nor did the lens - however you will have to tighten this with a decent amount of force if you want this to fit snuggly. You can align it with one less revolution - however any time you knock the hood, bump it on a table, or put your camera in the bag it will knock it off center which after awhile kind of feels sloppy. Without the UV filter - it fits and tightens correctly, but in truth most people will add some type of filter because if you don’t - then the camera is not fully waterproof. Also, not protecting the only lens this camera has would be foolish. I chose this hood over a more expensive brand, mostly because I didn’t like the idea of having to unscrew tiny screws in order to change filters. I did want to experiment with various bloom filters - but to be honest - considering how tight I had to screw this hood on - it maybe awhile before I am tempted to play around with any other filters for now. The manufacturing and material feels good, I like the style. I haven’t played with the flash, so I can’t say how it impacts photos. I got this hood mostly because I liked the idea of protecting it and helping with some of the solar haze that can create unwanted lighting. All in all, there doesn’t seem to be a perfect setup. I think Hoag should have either partnered with a filter company or produced their own so that they could have manufactured these to align correctly with those selected filters rather than guess each time.
