Help with Long exposure problem

[znxlegion]

Camera i'm using is 450D XSI

[Vlad Xp]

When I shoot long exposure, I always remove filters, and use a lens hood. Any stray light entering the lens at long exposure can easily turn into a flare and get exaggerated in size. Also, I've heard that leaving the viewfinder open may allow light to enter the camera body through the viewfinder opening and affect your exposure if it reaches the sensor.

[mpphoto12]

Yea i recomend removing lens hoods and all filters and also covering the eyepiece so there is no light source behind you

[Vlad Xp]

I'd leave the lens hood on, because it's designed to keep the unwanted stray lights away from entering the lens.