Umbrellas and Reflector sizes?

They say the larger the light source the better. But since I'll be stuck
with speedlights (580 EXII to be exact), what's the largest
umbrella/softbox I could pair in with my 580? 43 inch?



Would a 43 inch umbrella covers the capability of a smaller umbrella,
such as 36-40 inch?



Let's say I'll be covering portraits from face shots, to two person full
body. Would 43 inch be enough to cover all that range?



As for reflectors, same question about their sizes, the larger the
better? Assuming I'll use the sun this time to gather light than a
speedlight. Are rectangular better than those circular type reflectors?





I wanna invest in these soon and since I'm just a hobbyist, I don't have
a return of investment. so buying what I'll be using would be critical.



Thanks!

At 105mm you should be able to light up about any umbrella. BTW - I setup two 580exII's to illuminate (from the back) a 4.5' X 7' panel, talk about a large area of light!


I think you will find that the trick is getting the subject close to the (shoot through) umbrella while also getting catch lights in the eyes and a nice diffuse level on the opposite side of the face. Controlling shadows, etc.. deciding just how much focus you want to hold,..


I use the collapsible zip disc type (round) reflector just because it is convenient and quite versatile with the reversible cover. Get a translucent disc and the aforementioned mentioned cover so you can also use it alone as a diffuser. The holder (think boom) and a spare light stand for studio work.


Most eventually migrate to some sort of softbox, even DIY is worth exploring! My model stuff.


-Shea

I use my flashes with 43" umbrellas, 33" umbrellas, and 23" umbrellas--all with good results (although you could certainly use a 60" umbrella, too). However, the larger the surface of the umbrella, the softer the light will be. A 33" umbrella's results will be a little bit "punchier" than the 43" umbrella's light.


When it comes to reflectors, bigger is not necessarily better. Many large reflectors tend to pancake with light wind (and simply from the force of gravity if they aren't very rigid. While in theory they can cover more area (and in practice, a good one can, in little wind), smaller reflectors tend to be easier to handle and fair better in the wind. Also, the triangular ones with handles make positioning the reflector very easy (assuming you have someone to hold it).

I totally forgot about this topic! Thanks guys. Maybe I'll stick with 43 inch at max for my 580 [:)]