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.comI 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, and more specifically the Lighting 101 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...









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









(3 flashes--two visible in background)









(2 flashes)









(1 flash)









(1 flash)









(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