beginners lighting kit questions

[Cozen]

I have experience in video lighting, but I'm completely new to photography lights. Having a light kit full of fresnel/maxi brutes etc would be great, but I just can't afford that. I saw this on craigslist, what are your thoughts?





http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/pho/1350819094.html





I would like something flexible that can be used for portrait lights, product lighting, and experimental lighting that can use gels, as well as inexpensive and won't burn my apartment down.


What are your suggestions? Thanks.

[Scott]

Cozen


I have the Elinchrom D lite 400's and couldn't be happier. I am still new to lighting and have found these to be very forgiving and easy to operate. I've got a very basic web site if you want to have a look at, in the studio section most of these were done with the Elinchrom's www.rebeccasphotographics.com ("http://www.rebeccasphotographics.com)I am in country QueenslandAustralia, and know we just don't get the selection or service as you do in the States. Hope this helps.





Regards


Scott

[Sean Setters]

If you want something [relatively] inexpensive, yet very flexible & portable, you might want to take a look at the information contained in the Strobist ("http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/), and more specifically the Lighting 101 ("http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/03/lighting-101.html) section. When reading it, keep in mind you don't actually need Pocketwizards starting out, as there are many lower cost alternatives to fit any experience level.


So what can you do with small, shoe-mount flashes used off-camera? Quite a bit...






http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2494/3870293039_e267fc0480.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3870293039/)


(3 flashes--one is creating the sun effect in background)






http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2544/3826141129_b319635260.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3826141129/)


(3 flashes--two visible in background)






http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2534/3751419976_b60e09a6c7.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3751419976/)


(2 flashes)






http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2665/3718646359_7ffd3f7566.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3718646359/)


(1 flash)






http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3639/3656135196_1d9aff9047.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3656135196/)


(1 flash)






http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3302/3560831870_68e9ef4886.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3560831870/)


(3 flashes)

[Cozen]

Thanks for both of your replies.





I like the Elinchrom D's as it is probably something I'm more use to using when lighting, but they are out of my budget. also they don't look as portable as I'd want them to be.


I read through the lighting 101 blog and I have to say, that is some great info. That is something I would be interested in, but would have to practice a lot with as I'm use to lighting with constant light. If I were to start with one flash(strobe), umbrella, stand kit, would you recommend getting a canon brand flash since I don't have one yet.


I found a few Nikon SB strobes for decent prices, but I wouldn't have the option to use it on my canon 40D body. I'm thinking about the 430 EX or EXII. Thoughts?

[hotsecretary]

Keep an eye out for used Flashes online, they seem to be up more than lens :)


I was going to get the 430 when I first looked, but decided to shell out the extra for the better flash as I knew it won't be replaced unless I break it!


I picked up a 580 and I also am learning myself... strobist is a great site for information and as you get better it's a great site for small little assignments to learn more and more.


Remember lighting will cost you a bit to start, but it'll last pretty much forever like a good lens! Also if you ever get more into lighting you'll most likely pickup another flash or two, so your first one doesn't have to be the best ..

[hotsecretary]

Oh ya, Sean great photos and use of light..

[Cozen]

just a little clarification needed. If I buy a say 430EX, I can use it off camera by simply connecting the flash to the camera through the PC connection. And this is by a cable. I'd imagine the cable would be a pain and semi limiting. What are ways to do this wireless?





Same question if I buy a Nikon SB flash but using a Canon 40D body

[Sean Setters]

My advice is this--if you absolutely need the flash on camera at some point or another, get a Canon flash to start out with. My first flash was a 580EX, and there have been times I was certainly glad I had it (as the situation required the less-flattering flash-on-camera approach). However, I can tell you that 95% of the time my 580EX sits in my gear bag unused. Another 3% of the time I'll use it off-camera (when I need more umph out of a flash), and the other 2% it's used on-camera. I don't use it often simply because of the high replacement cost of the flash. I'd much rather beat the heck out of my cheaper, used Vivitar 285HV flashes (most bought for less than $50) than to risk damaging my 580EX. As it stand right now, I've got 3 Vivitar 285HVs, 1 Vivitar 285, 1 Vivitar DF400MZ, and 1 580EX.


Having non-TTL strobes means I have to adjust the flash power manually. However, after a little while, this becomes second nature and isn't a problem. If I were shooting weddings frequently, I'd probably want (and could thus afford) having several Canon ETTL capable strobes. However, I'm doing just fine with my Vivitars. I love them. They are quite rugged and reliable (although some of the newer 285HVs have had quality control issues).


I'd suggest getting a relatively cheap basic setup first--cheap flash (used or new Vivitar 285HV, used SB-24/SB-28, etc), white Westcott collapsible umbrella, LumoPro LP606 lightstand, LumoPro LP633 umbrella swivel (the umbrella LumoPro items are available at MPEX ("http://www.mpex.com/)), and some way to trigger your strobe (either cheap ebay trigger or Cybersyncs--you might need a hotshoe adapter to connect the receiver unit to your flash depending on the system you choose).

[Scott]

Cozen
As far as off camera flash goes with the 430 it depends on how far off flash you want to go. Radio triggers are the way to go and Sean Setters (strobist guru) is the man to talk to there. With the Elinchrom lights I rely on the flash of one light to set the rest off, this works very well for me, in the studio setting. This is not particularly successful out doors in day light. I have a 5m ETTL cable I use to set off my 430EXII, works well but it is still only 5m long. (16feet approx) so it is limiting, but it

[Cozen]

I like the idea of the vivitar flash unit as well as the umbrella, stand, and the swivel bracket as they are all relatively affordable and transportable. Seems I can get all of the above for around $150





The only question I have is about the way to trigger the flash. I'd like something wireless for ease of use. So far I've seen the Cactus V2 and the Cybersync you recommended. There seems to be a large difference in price. The Cybersync is about $150 for a transmitter and receiver, where as the Cactus V2 is about $40 for Transmitter and receiver. Do I have this all correct?





Thanks again for all the useful information and patience from all of you.

[Sean Setters]

The only question I have is about the way to trigger the flash. I'd like something wireless for ease of use. So far I've seen the Cactus V2 and the Cybersync you recommended. There seems to be a large difference in price. The Cybersync is about $150 for a transmitter and receiver, where as the Cactus V2 is about $40 for Transmitter and receiver. Do I have this all correct?





Yep, that's about right. The new RadioPopper JrX ("http://shop.radiopopper.com/radiopopperjrxsystem.aspx) units are slightly less expensive than the Cybersyncs when purchased in a set. However, they aren't old enough to know all the pitfalls about them (although I have heard the transmitter burns through batteries rather quickly).


Both the Cybersyncs and the RadioPopper JrX units are substantially less expensive than Pocketwizards. Pocketwizards have been the gold standard of radio triggers for quite some time, but their most recent units have been less than stellar, in my opinion. The new units (that transmit ETTL info like the RadioPopper PX units) suffer from poor range and reliability because of the RF noise emitted from Canon's 580EX flashes (the RadioPoppers are unaffected, however).


As for really cheap triggers, I'd actually recommend a CTR-301p set from ebay. However, if you get the CTR-301p trigger/receivers, then you'd need a different umbrella swivel--the LumoPro LP634 ("http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,4722.html). The CTR-301p set is nice because it doesn't require any other cables or connectors to use them (they have a built in hot shoe to trigger the flash). They also have a built in optical slave.

[Cozen]

the CTR-301p looks great and so does the price! As a beginner I don't want to break the bank so early. The other great thing about the CTR-301p is it comes with 2 Receivers in case I want to get a 430ex or another Vivitar 285HV in the future I won't need to get another receiver. I'm going to order it soon and give it a go.





Sorry one last question, will mounting the vivitar 285HV to my 40D cause any problems? Say if I just used a PC cord, but wanted to have it camera mounted. If there is a problem having it connected through the hotshoe, is there a converter, or adaptor I can use?

[Sean Setters]

Cozen: I edited my above post to include some info on Pocketwizards...just in case you were wondering what really expensive radio triggers look like. ;-)


I did some research that seemed to confirm what I already thought. I copied and pasted this from a flickr.com/groups/strobist thread:




</br>"If you insert a Vivitar sync cord into the sync port on the 285HV, the hotshoe becomes inactive.

Remove the sync cord from the Vivitar.

If it is indeed a properly functioning 285HV (not just a 285 without an HV designation), it will not harm you camera. The maximum sync Voltage will be about 15 Volts on older units, and about 5 Volts on the most recent version.

The plain 285 (no HV designation) can be up to 500 Volts.

The Canon XTi can tollerate up to 250 Volts on the sync circuits (some earlier Canon DSLRs could only tolerate 6 Volts).

Enjoy! Lon"


I imagine that a true Vivitar 285HV will be fine on the hotshoe of a 40D. There's no ETTL, but you could still use the manual controls as well as the auto exposure modes (based on ISO and distance to subject, I think). That said, I've never even fooled with the auto exposure, so I can't attest to how useful it is on-camera or off.

[Cozen]

thanks Sean, you have been a ton of help. So basically make sure my unit is a HV unit. I Will most likely order from the mpex website you gave earlier, which I'm assuming to be a reliable place. But either way, if I have the PC cord in the Vivitar 285HV, and connected to my camera, the strobe's shoe will be inactive. So I can mount it on the camera, but will just have to change all the settings manually. That won't be a problem. I'm just confirming all these points to make sure I have a complete understanding of it all. Thanks again!!!

[Cozen]

Does the Vivitar 285HV come with the PC-1 Sync Cord ("javascript:void(0);) when purchased new from mpex.com? I can't seem to find it on the website.

[Sean Setters]

Yes, it comes in the standard box. While the PC-1 Sync Cord is handy when using the Cactus V2s receivers, they are useless when using just about anything else (in my experience). The cord is not necessary when using the CTR-301ps as the flash simply slides into the shoe of the receiver. Now that I'm using Cybersyncs, I use this ("http://www.flashzebra.com/products/0128/index.shtml) item from flashzebra. It's a hotshoe adapter that allows you to plug in a miniphone cable. Then I just connect a miniphone to miniphone cable between my Cybersyncs and the adapter. The miniphone to miniphone cable has proven much better (for me, at least) than the PC-1 cable to Cactus V2s connection (the cable would sometimes come loose from the flash). Of course, with the CTR-301ps, that isn't an issue.


As for MPEX, I've really come to like their service and in-house brand, LumoPro. I certainly recommend them. However, you might want to seriously consider buying a used Vivitar 285HV off of ebay if you can find it. The reason is simple--some of the last Vivitar 285HV units made (they are no longer made under the Vivitar name; Cactus bought out the brand and now makes them under their own brand name) had some quality issues. If you bought a used one off of ebay, then you'd get a better price and it's probably been proven to work reliably (is it's likely to be well used). I've purchased 2 Vivitar 285HV and 1 Vivitar 285 flashes off of ebay and I've never had a problem with them. The 1 Vivitar 285HV I bought new (from B&amp;H) died on me after about 8 months. I sent it back to Vivitar who replaced the unit with a new one. It's been working fine ever since.


So if you do buy a new one, make sure you know the return policy of the company you purchase from. MPEX is aware of the quality issues and is pretty good about testing the 285HVs before sending them out (many of the bad ones died after only a couple of firings). They'll also understand if the unit fails and you want to exchange it within a reasonable amount of time (although you'll still want to inquire about their exact return policies).

[Cozen]

Thanks, I will look into the used Vivitars, although I did look on Ebay and they aren't much cheaper than the new ones.





Also I was asking about the PC-1 sync cord in regards to connecting the Vivitar 285HV to the hotshoe of my 40D. I just want to use the hotshoe on the camera as a mount. Will I have to use a PC-1 sync cord to connect to the PC port on my camera, or will it work by being connected to the hotshoe without causing any problems?

[Cozen]

Ok, here is what I ordered. Hope it helps others reading this looking for a beginner strobe kit.





CTR-301P Wireless Flash Trigger with 2 receivers and PC Sync....$41.99 (from Ebay)


1 Flexible Gripping Large Tripod .................................................. .$8.99 (maxsaver)


Westcott 43" Collapsible Umbrella ...............................................$26 .00 (mpex)


LumoPro LP634 Umbrella Swivel Ada............................................$19 .99 (mpex)


LumoPro 8' Black A/C Stand............................................. .............$29.99 (mpex)





This totals up to $126.96. Add on roughly $25 for various shipping and you are looking at @ $150 so far.


Now find 2 used strobes for hopefully around $100 and you have a nice beginners strobe set up for $250.





Am I missing anything Sean? =)

[Sean Setters]

*thinking* [I]



Gels. You need a set of gels for each flash you use. I get mine from photogels.com ("http://www.photogels.com/). At the very least, you'll want a set of color correction gels (here's why ("http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/03/lighting-101-using-gels-to-correct.html)). Those particular gels are cut perfectly to fit in the front filter slot of the Vivitar 285(HV), so I don't need any additional equipment to a affix them to my flash. However, if you get just about any other flash, you'll need some way to keep the gels in place. Most people use Velcro and it works just fine.


If you're planning on doing some outdoor shooting, I'd suggest figuring out a DIY solution for securing your lightstand to the ground. When you affix an umbrella to the rig, it quickly becomes a wind sail and even the slightest breezes will cause your flash to fall over. I purchased a set of sandbags off of ebay and filled them with sand myself (although now I'm starting to believe pea gravel may have been better). I also keep tent stakes in my gear bag (just in case I'm too lazy to go back to the car and my lightstands are on soil). Some people simply bungee a large jug filled with water to their lighstands and that seems to suffice.


If I think of anything else that's absolutely necessary, I'll add it to the thread. Right now my brain's a little fuzzy from lack of sleep. ;-)

[Ehcalum]

KEH.com for flashes, check for bgn rated EZ flashes.

[Sean Setters]

KEH.com for flashes, check for bgn rated EZ flashes.
<div style="clear: both;"]</div>





Personally, I'd stay away from the 430EZ, though. The 430EZ goes to sleep after 90 seconds of inactivity, and you must go over to the flash and either hit the test fire button or else turn the unit on/off for it to work off-camera again. It's a decent flash to learn with, however, once you get more flashes (and are taking the time to adjust them throughout the shoot), the sleep function can get rather annoying.

[Cozen]

good call on the gels. I over looked this because I have a set I used for motion picture, that I was just going to cut to size. But if they make ones that fit specifically on the flash, that might be something to look in to. But then again, I might be going the Nikon SB 24 route.





Sandbag......I should've known that one too. Thanks!

[Cozen]

Are there any other flashes you can recommend other than the Nikon SB24-28's and the Vivitar 285HV's?





I was talking to a worker at a local camera store. He suggested the Sunpak PZ-4000 or something similar.





Just weighing my options while I wait for Ebay auctions.

[Sean Setters]

Are there any other flashes you can recommend other than the Nikon SB24-28's and the Vivitar 285HV's?


Not really. I've heard good things about many of the Nikon flashes (SB-24, SB25, SB-26, SB-27, SB-28, SB-28DX, SB-80DX, SB-800, SB-900), though, I cannot attest to their advantages or disadvantages because I've never owned one. I've bid on several on ebay, though...


You might want to check out this flash comparison chart ("http://www.bartziebaphotography.com/html/flashchart.html). I've found it quite helpful at times. It certainly isn't all-inclusive, but it's a great starting point when considering a new flash.

[Cozen]

Thanks for the chart Sean. I went to a local store, and was able to try out a Nikon SB-25. I'm guessing the 24 is very similar. It is a very nice and easy to adjust flash. I think this is the route I'm going for sure.





I also saw some flash accessories froma brand named HONL. They had flags, grids, snoots, gels, etc all made for speedlites. very cool, although I think more money than I'd want to spend. I'm going to try and make some of thsoe things myself.


Do you ahve a inexpensive grid you can recommend?

[Sean Setters]

Actually, yes. SaxonPC grids in foam housing ("http://www.saxonpc.com/flash-grid-in-foam-housing.html) are, in my opinion, better accessories (as far as grids are concerned) than the Honl grids. The SaxonPC grids fit better, and you can buy a whole set for a little bit more than the cost of 1 Honl grid and the speed strap. I bought the 1/8" Honl and was disappointed by the rather large light spread. That's why I love the 10 degree SaxonPC grid--much tighter.


If you want, you can buy just a couple of the grids--that would be significantly cheaper than the Honl grid and speed strap. Keep in mind they do sell Honl grid and strap knock-offs on ebay just in case you didn't want to go the SaxonPC route and don't mind supporting the little Chinese guy.

[lculpin]

I agree - I like a lot of the Honl stuff, but the grids are both disappointing and HEAVY (at least that's what I've found)... not to mention sort of cumbersome.

[Sean Setters]

The Vivitar, when purchased new. should come with the PC-1 Sync Cord (if I remember correctly). By the way--why would you try triggering the flash by anything but the hotshoe when it's on camera?

[Chuck Lee]

Some people simply bungee a large jug filled with water to their lighstands and that seems to suffice.


Great Idea!! also helps if you get thirsty!!.....[:D]


Sean, You point at some really great products. I wonder if there is a way to get a list of links together for strobist gear and accessories here on the-digital-picture forum.


I like photogels.com. Didn't know they existed. I've been ordering sheets from Mpex. I've got enough gel for my lifetime!! [:D] I'm suprised D. Hobby never mentioned it on strobist.com. In-fact he's worked out a deal with Rosco and now Rosco is offering a strobist pack of cut gels. They did this because they could no longer afford to give out sample packs to the millions of strobists hungry forfree gels. Plus, beyond the CTO, CTB, Pale Green, and a few others most of the sample pack ended up in the garbage.

[Sean Setters]

Sean, You point at some really great products. I wonder if there is a way to get a list of links together for strobist gear and accessories here on the-digital-picture forum.


I had just a minute before heading out the door for a cookout--but wanted to say I think that is a good idea. I'll try to compile a list of useful strobist tools and accessories (as well as DIY stuff) this weekend if I have time. We'll start a thread with the links. Then as people find more things, then I can simply add to the original thread. Think that'll work?

[Chuck Lee]

Awesome.........[:D]


Njoy the day....I'm heading out too.

[Cozen]

The Vivitar, when purchased new. should come with the PC-1 Sync Cord (if I remember correctly). By the way--why would you try triggering the flash by anything but the hotshoe when it's on camera?
<div style="clear: both;"]</div>





I was asking because I was under the impression that you cannot connect the Nikon SB-24 to the hotshoe of the Canon cameras. So I was seeing if there is a way to mount the flash to the camera in case I did want to use it on camera without any problems. I might be way off on this tho.

[Sean Setters]

I was asking because I was under the impression that you cannot connect the Nikon SB-24 to the hotshoe of the Canon cameras. So I was seeing if there is a way to mount the flash to the camera in case I did want to use it on camera without any problems. I might be way off on this tho.


Check this ("http://www.flickr.com/groups/strobist/discuss/72157594203551455/?search=connect+sb-24+to+canon) out.


I know it's possible to connect flashes that aren't specifically designed for the EOS system, but on the whole, I wouldn't recommend it. You can do what you want, but I wouldn't do it (of course, I just bought another Vivitar 285 off of ebay last night with an unknown sync voltage). ;-)

[Cozen]

Thanks for the link Sean. You come through once again.





Congrats on your newest Vivitar! I just picked up a Nikon SB-24 off Ebay myself for a pretty good price. Now to get another one.





I was looking at your flickr account, I like how you give a lighting description for the pictures you take. Really helpful in studying lighting. I also noticed you use a softbox quite often. I've been looking for one myself. Do you have one you can recommend at an affordable price. By affordable, I mean as cheap as possible because small things here and there are starting to add up. Haha!





I saw this:





http://www.adorama.com/LTBSB2028.html?searchinfo=softbox





Not much of a description, but it's fairly large for a good price. It also comes in 12x12 and 18x18





Also saw:


http://www.adorama.com/LQSBM.html?searchinfo=softbox





and


http://cgi.ebay.com/Softbox-for-Speedlight-Flashlight-Portable-Flash-Stand_W0QQitemZ110423421620QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_D efaultDomain_0?hash=item19b5bfb2b4&amp;_trksid=p3286.c 0.m14

[Chuck Lee]

http://www.adorama.com/LQSBM.html?searchinfo=softbox



I think the Lumiquest Softbox III ("http://www.adorama.com/LQSB3.html?searchinfo=Lumiquest+Softbox+III)8" x 9" surfacecan create pretty soft edge shadows from 10ft and in. Otherwise, if it's not to windy, umbrellas are the most versatile way to get soft light. It also creates a round catch light in the eyes.

[Cozen]

do you have any example pictures you can post with this product? I thought a bigger box would be better. If I can get away with a smaller one, that would be great.

[Sean Setters]

Yes, there's one in particular I can recommend if a small softbox is what you're looking for--the Alzo ("http://www.alzodigital.com/online_store/alzo_porta_flash_soft_box.htm)Digital Porta-Flash Mini Softbox ("http://www.alzodigital.com/online_store/alzo_porta_flash_soft_box.htm). You can find similar items (in fact, you can find the Alzo softbox, too) a little cheaper on ebay (search for "flash softbox"). I bought the Alzo one on ebay because it was a bit cheaper there. I believe this ("http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&amp;_trksid=m38&amp;_nkw=Nikon+Canon+Speedlite+ Flash+Softbox+Photo+Studio+Lights) would probably be identical yet cheaper (and with free shipping), but I can't attest to it with certainty as I don't own that particular one.


That said, you might just want to start out with an umbrella. I've got two softboxes, but honestly my white shoot-through Westcott collapsible umbrella gets used much more than they do. In fact, I'd say I use an umbrella 4 to 1 over either softbox.


I used an umbrella yesterday and, as always, it worked quite well. I did have to weigh down the lightstand with 3 sandbags, though, as it was quite windy.



http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3461/3893709441_8a33ff7cd5.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3893709441/)



strobist: 1 Vivitar 285HV, camera left (in front of subject), 1/4 power, shot through a white umbrella. 1 Vivitar 285HV, camera left (behind subject), 1/16 power, bare, to act as a hint of rim/hairlight. Flashes triggered via Cybersyncs.

[Cozen]

Sweet picture Sean. I love the soft light and skin tone.


I did order an umbrella, I will most likely use that for outdoor shooting, but I wanted a softbox for indoor experimenting with rim lights, cutting out light, and expressionist type photos. Thanks for the recommendation.

[Sean Setters]

The other softbox I have is the 28" Westcott Apollo ("http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/564656-REG/Westcott_2202_Apollo_Speedlight_Set_.html). It's decently well-made, large, and provides a very nice lightsource. It's a good for indoor portraiture, but of course, it is a bit more expensive.






http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3118/2871920454_7831b45f54.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/2871920454/)


strobist: 1 Vivitar 285HV, 1/2 power, camera left, shot into a Westcott Apollo 28&amp;quot; softbox, triggered by Cactus V2s. Background is a Botero 37 White/Black background.

[Cozen]

What are your thoughts on this barn door item? My alternative thought is to buy some black board and just cut it and attach with velcro. Although that won't be as easily adjusted, nor as durable.





http://cgi.ebay.com/barn-door-honeycomb-grid-gel-set-studio-flash-soft-box_W0QQitemZ350249237760QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item518c7b3d00&amp;_trksid=p3286.c0. m14

[Cozen]

Seems like everyday I can think of something new I need/want. So here is an update for gear I've picked up for my beginner's lighting kit.





CTR-301P Wireless Flash Trigger with 2 receivers and PC Sync....$41.99 (from Ebay)


1 Flexible Gripping Large Tripod .................................................. .$8.99 (maxsaver)


Westcott 43" Collapsible Umbrella ...............................................$26 .00 (mpex)


LumoPro LP634 Umbrella Swivel Ada............................................$19 .99 (mpex)


LumoPro 8' Black A/C Stand............................................. .............$29.99 (mpex)


Nikon SB-24................................................ ..................................$60.00 (ebay)


Nikon SB-25................................................ ..................................$70.00 (ebay)


<span style="font-size: 10pt;"]<span style="font-size: 10pt;"]Background photo muslin (black) 10 X 6 ft.........................$24.99 (ebay)



8 AA Energizer rechargeable batteries/charger ...........................$25.99 (ebay)


2 Ultimate Combo Pack photo gels.............................................. .$34.00 (photogels)


2 10 degree honeycomb grids............................................. .........$20


Promaster Tripod/stand carrying bag...........................................$40 (adolf gassers)





This is roughly $400 for all the above listed gear. I'm sure there are some ways to cut costs with DIY etc.





I'm still debating on ball bungees, sandbag, flags/barn doors, but these all seem great DIY projects.





Yup, things are definitely starting to add up, but I can't wait!

[Sean Setters]

Just for comparison (I'm listing only the gear I carry with me to every shoot)



CTR-301P Wireless Flash Trigger with 2 receivers and PC Sync....$41.99 (from Ebay)


(5) CSRBs and (2) CSTs



1 Flexible Gripping Large Tripod .................................................. .$8.99 (maxsaver)


check



Westcott 43" Collapsible Umbrella ...............................................$26 .00 (mpex)


(2) white, (2) reflective, (1) 28" softbox, (1) 15" softbox



LumoPro LP634 Umbrella Swivel Ada............................................$19 .99 (mpex)


(3) LP634s, (2) LP633s, (2) LP632s



LumoPro 8' Black A/C Stand............................................. .............$29.99 (mpex)


(3) LP606s (product mentioned above), (1) Manfrotto 001b






Nikon SB-24................................................ ..................................$60.00 (ebay)


Nikon SB-25................................................ ..................................$70.00 (ebay)





(3) Vivitar 285HVs, (2) Vivitar 285s, (1) Vivitar DF400MZ, (1) Canon 580EX



Background photo muslin (black) 10 X 6 ft.........................$24.99 (ebay)


(2) Botero 5x7 Collapsible Backgrounds (black/white &amp; grey)



8 AA Energizer rechargeable batteries/charger ...........................$25.99 (ebay)


(10) sets of (4) rechargeable AA batteries (different makes) with a MAHA C801D Recharger



2 Ultimate Combo Pack photo gels.............................................. .$34.00 (photogels)


(3) older combo packs (slightly different combination of gels), (4) color correction, (1) special effects pack



2 10 degree honeycomb grids............................................. .........$20


(7) grids in foam housing ranging from 60 degrees down to 10 degrees of spread



Promaster Tripod/stand carrying bag...........................................$40 (adolf gassers)


(1) Standbagger Model 8, (2) Wal-Mart craft bags (perfect for strobes), (1) fishing tackle organizer (for triggers)


And I've got some ball bungees, (8) sandbags, a DIY snoot. And I wouldn't dare to total that up.

[Cozen]

dang Sean! I thought being a strobist was about traveling light and being able to be on the move! Haha, just kidding. But seriously, the 40 batteries alone must weigh quite a bit. You really need that many?


You have quite the collection, but with your help, it seems I'm on the right track.


I wouldn't want to total it up either. I regret even totaling mine up, but I just wanted to give people an idea in case they were looking to buy a beginner strobe set up as well.


Seems having another light stand and umbrella would be very useful to me, but seems as I'm trying to keep the gear to a minimum, I can use my tripod for a 2nd light stand if I handhold my camera, and I'm going to grab an inexpensive softbox.


Where did you get your ball bungees from?


The biggest challenge for me will be making the transition from constant lighting to working with strobes. Not being able to see the light before I shoot it will be tough at first. But when I get my gear, I will definitely post some of my first shots.





Oh, and what do you think about that barn door thing I saw on ebay?

[Sean Setters]

Where did you get your ball bungees from?


I got my ball bungees from Wal-Mart--sporting goods section.



Oh, and what do you think about that barn door thing I saw on ebay?


When I found some speedlight-sized barn doors, I snatched up a couple. However, I've only used the barndoors once (as they won't fit my Vivitars). I found snoots and grids to be much more useful. The one time I needed a flag I simply taped a 3x5 card to the side of the flash and that worked fine.


My one decent shot using the barndoors on my 580EX:



http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3154/2636971671_dcbe7f678c.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/2636971671/)

[Sean Setters]

Just to let everyone know, I started writing the rather lengthy strobist thread this evening. I won't actually post it until (most likely) tomorrow evening at the earliest once I get through the flash triggering section. I'll still have several sections to go after that, but at least it'll be up and started. I urge everyone to read through it and send me any revisions or additions needed (via conversations) once it's up.

[bastoone]

Awesome ! can't wait to read it !

[Gian Luca]

Sean, I never tried to work, the only exception is in the office, when I shoot some products for our catalougue. I look forward to read your post, as I am more and more convinced to try after reading all your past post.





Ciao

[Sean Setters]

Whoops! Forgot about the NFL season opening tonight--Titans vs Steelers. Not sure how much writing I'll get done. Might have to wait until Friday evening...





:-)

[Gian Luca]

Enjoy the opening, I will wait happily

[Sean Setters]

The first strobist info post ("/forums/t/2081.aspx) is up.

[Cozen]

Sean, remember the light stand, swivel head, and umbrella you
recommended from Mpex? Well I guess it's been on back order this
entire time and I haven't received it yet. Any suggestions on
alternatives? They listed a buncha of replacements, but I'm not sure
what will work best for my Nikon SB and CTR-301P triggers.


If possible I'd like to keep the total for the light stand, swivel, and umbrella around the same prices as what I previously ordered which was around $80 or so.


If you can help me out I'd appreciate it. Thanks!

[Mark Elberson]

Sean, remember the light stand, swivel head, and umbrella you recommended from Mpex? Well I guess it's been on back order this entire time and I haven't received it yet. Any suggestions on alternatives? They listed a buncha of replacements, but I'm not sure what will work best for my Nikon SB and CTR-301P triggers.


If possible I'd like to keep the total for the light stand, swivel, and umbrella around the same prices as what I previously ordered which was around $80 or so.


If you can help me out I'd appreciate it. Thanks!
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>



I actually asked Sean the same question because I was tired of waiting formpex to restock. mpex recommends theInterfit 8.5 ft Air Cushioned Light Stand ("http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,11667.html) as a replacement for the LumoPro 8' Black A/C Stand ("http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,4727.html) but Sean said he got one and sent it right back because he was unhappy with the quality. He pointed meto theImpact Air Cushioned Light Stand, Black - 8' (2.4m ("http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/253074-REG/Impact_LS_8A_Air_Cushioned_Light_Stand_.html)). It'smyonly experience with a light stand so I don't have anything to compare it to but I likeit so far. Sean caveated (can you make caveat a verb?) hisrecomendation by telling me that he hasn't used them himself but there were many positive comments from users on the strobist forum on Flickr. I paired it with the LumoPro LP634 Umbrella Swivel Adapter ("http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,4722.html) from mpex and the Westcott Umbrella - Collapsible, Optical White Satin - 43'' ("http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/63314-REG/Westcott_2001_Collapsible_Umbrella_Optical.html) available at either mpex or B&amp;H. All of that adds up to about $75 plus shipping.

[Cozen]

Sweet! That's the exact info I was looking for. Thanks a lot!





By the way, do you know what the black cover on the umbrella is use for? Just a thought, but it seems you could cut out a section in the middle and use it kind of as a soft box right?

[Mark Elberson]

By the way, do you know what the black cover on the umbrella is use for? Just a thought, but it seems you could cut out a section in the middle and use it kind of as a soft box right?
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>



I just thought it was for protection but I do know that it's a pain to get back on again! If you figure out how to make a softbox out ofit be sure to post how you did it :-)

[Cozen]

They said the stand is the only item on back order. Did you order that replacement lightstand from mpex? Because they are asking me for a item #. And does that stand work with the original swivel head? I don't want to just replace the stand and the swivel head doesn't work with it.

[Sean Setters]

I just thought it was for protection but I do know that it's a pain to get back on again! If you figure out how to make a softbox out ofit be sure to post how you did it :-)


The black cover is useful when using the umbrella in a reflective fashion (as opposed to shoot-through) as it controls the amount of light spilling around the room (if indoors, that is).

[Mark Elberson]

The black cover is useful when using the umbrella in a reflective fashion (as opposed to shoot-through) as it controls the amount of light spilling around the room (if indoors, that is).
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>



We must be talking about a different "black cover". The one that came with my umbrella is a protective sheath (kind of like ones that sometimes come with rain umbrellas). It's not the "Removable black cover allows the light source to "shoot-through", as a more direct light" kind thatsometimes comes with conventional reflective umbrellas.


Sean, did your Westcott Umbrella - Collapsible, Optical White Satin - 43'' (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/63314-REG/Westcott_2001_Collapsible_Umbrella_Optical.html]<span style="color: #3366cc;)come with one of these covers (the latter that is)?

[Mark Elberson]

They said the stand is the only item on back order. Did you order that replacement lightstand from mpex? Because they are asking me for a item #. And does that stand work with the original swivel head? I don't want to just replace the stand and the swivel head doesn't work with it.
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>



The theImpact Air Cushioned Light Stand, Black - 8' (2.4m (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/253074-REG/Impact_LS_8A_Air_Cushioned_Light_Stand_.html]<span style="color: #003399;))is from B&amp;H. TheLumoPro LP634 Umbrella Swivel Adapter (http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,4722.html]<span style="color: #3366cc;) from mpexworks fine with it so go for it :-)