HELP! - Nikon 18-200mm Lens

[cubsfan2733]

When I shoot with my Nikon 18-200mm lens, a black shadow appears at the bottom-middle of each picture. Its really annoying. How do I get that to stop?

Do I have to buy a external flash? Is my filter causing this problem?

 

[SCraig]

I bet it only shows up at 18mm. It's probably the lens hood or filter. The easiest way to tell is to take them off and see if it goes away.

 

[KmH]

Yep. The shadow is likely caused by the lens hood when you use the camera,s on-board flash unit.
There is even a note in the 18-200 mm lens user's manual about not using the lens hood with the built-in flash when the lens focal length is between 18 mm and 35 mm.

 

[cubsfan2733]

Yes, I think its the lens hood. What do I do when I need the lens hood if I'm outside and can't.. because it'll create a shadow? Is there a external flash I can buy that is auto works? I don't want a manual flash.
Anything that is around $100?

 

[480sparky]

If you aren't using the flash outdoors, there won't be the shadow caused by the flash.

You can probably find an used SB-400 within your budget if you aren't in a hurry.