Might I suggest you explore prim lenses? The good news is that you can start with the fast (f/1.8) & totally affordable nifty fifty. For portraiture the 85mm f/1.8 is also a nice choice. BTW - As a strobist I would think you would want more flash power and units. And while umbrellas are very convenient I think we all eventually seek the control and large area of light offered by softboxes. Have you considered a good used camera body? Maybe get by with the old computer and step up to a newer body.


Ultimately it is up to you, and higher education is always good - so do both,.. and get fire proof pockets!


-Shea