Lens hood for studio work? Also what lens to use?

Hi
Looking for quick responses please
I have a studio shoot tonight (my first one) and without looking a wally wanted to know if I need a lens hood? If its not completely necessary then I will order online and save £15… If I definitely need it ill have to go jessops now and pay alot more. This is an amateur shoot so I won't be selling any of the photos… The model is professional though.
I think the lighting will be… Light over the top of the model and one at the bottom. She will be on little platform.

Also, I have a nikon 18-55mm kit lens and a nikon 18-200mm vr2… Which one would be best to use?

The purpose of a lens hood is to prevent lens flare from the sun at an oblique angle to the lens. Not strictly necessary in a studio environment where the lighting is controlled.

Sounds like a clam shell lighting setup.

I would take the 18-200mm - optical quality is likely to be better than the 18-55mm and if the studio is large you can back off a bit further.

It's always a good idea to use a lens hood at all times, but if you light carefully in the studio you shouldn't 'need' one - just make sure no stray light enters the lens from the side (or top or bottom).In the studio, for general use you might find the longer lens only of use towards its short end, e.g. In the range of 55 to 80mm. If the shoot is 'public' you may have to stand some way from the model, thus you may need the longer lens; take both lenses with you.