 BetterPhoto Member |
Idea of Basic lighting I have been shooting semi-portrait pictures by bouncing light off my flash onto two white cardboards. I have considered purchasing a small floodlight to begin experimenting with lighting techniques. Is this an effective choice to begin basic portrait lighting?
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Debby A. Tabb |
I would actually suggest a strobe and then a slave for your flash. Put your flash on a stand with the slave attached ... use the strobe as your main light. And you have a 2 light kit. If your camera has a built-in flash, this will trigger both to pop. Then as you add another light, your flash can work as your backlight -until you have a 3-light system. I do hope this helps, Debby
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John P. Sandstedt |
The major problem with strobe lighting is that you can't see the effect as you take the picture. I started with two 250w photofloods with 10-inch reflectors in lighting stands. I still use these, except I have four. Yes, they're "hot," so I have to consider the model at all times. But, the results can be observed and fine tuned. Someday I'll buy a softbox - but, now we're starting to talk MONEY. Unless one is really planning to concentrate on portraits, these kinds of costs must be considered along with backdrops, etc. When using a stobe, be careful you mount your camera on some kind of frame. Otherwise you'll be very surprised by the balck outlines you'll find in you portrait-oriented portraits. Kodak has several books on portrait photography. They're a little old, but the info is good. Have fun.
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Norbert Maile |
I too prefer "hot" lights, and they are hot. That is why the fan was invented. I use a 3 light setup that cost $150. The light bulbs that I use, since I am using film are daylight bulbs which require no filters. They have a short life of about 3hrs usage but are not very expensive. This way I can see exactly what I am getting and if you want to leave the lights on for a long setup then just use regular bulbs for the setup and put in the day light bulbs when ready to shoot. Cheap and easy. Buy better stuff as you go.
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Debby A. Tabb |
A.R., may I suggest that you look in on the threads: Studio Photography LINK: http://www.betterphoto.com/forms/qnaDetail.php?threadID=20455 read the first few threads, and as you go on ,I hope you feel comfortable Also, I have some extra studio equiptment on ebay if any of you are in need of anything.the link is in my gallery.
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