Quote Originally Posted by Sean Setters View Post
You'll likely need more umph than one flash can provide as your mainlight (unless you shoot at a time with the ambient is low). You might want to consider something like the Triple Threat. It's the best design for a multiple flash holder I've ever seen especially at a price I wouldn't mind paying myself. With it, you could put three flashes in the main umbrella and one on a stand with another umbrella for fill (then again, that would require you purchase another umbrella, I assume). As for a rim/separation light, hopefully you can put the sun to the subjects' backs. I use the sun for rim all the time.

Personally, I'm not so sure about using the 500L for family portraiture. My biggest issue with it is the subject-to-photographer distance hampers communication. I find fast, reliable communication to be key in nailing group shots.
Great suggestions Sean, I do have a triple bracket and enough flashes to fill it up + a fill light---Still pondering the second umbrella--but I will probably go ahead and order one tonight. After all, It would also be usefull for my Hummingbirds as well. One thing you reminded me of is more batteries. I am used to shooting at 1/32 or or 1/64 power so my batteries last a long time---but at full power I am thinking I will need at least two complete change outs to be safe.

As far as the 500, That is just an idea--I think I will try it on individuals just to see how it works, then convert to the 100 f 2.8L. For the family, I want to try my 50 1.2 or maybe the 100 if I don't have to back off to far.

Thanks for the wizdom