Introduction: Poor Man's Lens Cap or Hood (Fits Any DSLR / Semi-DSLR)

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When I bought my DSLR, second hand it didn't have a lens cap. It was still in OK condition and I never got round to buying a lens cap. So I just ended up making one. Since I take my camera to some dusty places it is probably best to have a lens cap. I made this so that I can use it until I get a lens cap or I 3d print one. I said that it was a hood in the title but what I real mean is that if you cut a hole in the end it can slip over the first part of the lens and be used as a lens cap.

Supplies

  • Cardboard
  • Scissors
  • Camera
  • Glue (I used PVA)
  • Tape
  • Zip Ties (Cable Ties)

Step 1: Cutting and Measuring the Ring Part

You will have to cut a piece of cardboard that will go all the way around the camera lens (The thickest part). You will then have to bend it in one direction so that it is flexible in that direction. After making sure that it fits you will most likely have to cut off a little bit. You will also have to cut a bit off of the longest edge to make it not go all the way to the camera body.

Step 2: Cutting and Measuring the End Piece

Next cut a piece of cardboard that will fit over the end of the lens. Then you will need to trace around it. After you have done that you will need to draw another circle about 5-10 millimeters bigger on each side and cut it out. (If your lens is square or a pentagon or something you will need to cut out that shape) ;)

Step 3: Gluing and Finishing Up

You will need to get the two parts that we made before. Put the rectangle bit around the circle bit (If it is a circle) and tape it there. I also used Cable Ties but I didn't take a photo when i was using that. The cable ties were more reliable and didn't come undone. Now put glue on the front and wait for it to dry. After that if you want you can glue the inside. After, glue down the part where the two ends of the card board meet so that it doesn't come undone.

Step 4: Finished Product

There you have it. You could even put some foam in the end so that the cardboard doesn't scratch on the end of the lens.