A dedicated lens hood helps to minimize flare by deflecting stray light from entering the lens. The hood also provides additional protection to the lens from accidental impacts, bumps, or scratching. Attention 1: There are a few Nikon 18-55mm lenses, this lens hood is only for the AF-P DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G, if your Nikon 18-55mm lens is not either of these two lenses, please don't take it as it doesn't fit. For example, If your lens is AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR or AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II, you have to take the Nikon HB-45 hood, if your lens is Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II, you have to take the Nikon HB-69 hood. Attention 2: According to the customers reviews on this product, couples of customers mentioned the hood does not lock into place and falls off the lens easily, actually the reason why this happen is because the hood is not snapped firmly into proper place. If your lens is the correct 18-55mm lens mentioned above, we verify this hood will fit perfectly though it might be a little tight getting it to snap into the lock position for the first time of use. Easy to use bayonet mount attaches to your lens for a tight and secure fit. Just twist on or off. No wobbling or cross-threading. Handy reversible design allows you to attach the hood in reverse for easy storage in your bag.