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Photography Question 

David C. Taylor Jr.
 

Need Help Choosing Lighting


Ok I want to start doing "Studio Shots" on the road. For instance, I have a job offer to do photos for a prom. What lights would best suit my need, or what equip. Should I get to do this effectively?


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December 12, 2006

 

W.
  I have a "portable studio" for stuff like that. It basically consists of 3x wireless 5600HS D flashguns on their own tripods (2 battery sets per), triggered by the pop-up flash on my camera, a 3' and a 4' silver/white Lastolite reflector. This provides plenty 'oomph', I can bounce and fake 'softboxes' and balance shadows, and endlessly vary combinations. And the whole schpiel fits a medium-sized suitcase, so it's perfect for locationwork.

A seeming downside is that you have no modelling lights. But, hey!, this is the digital age, so you simply do a test shot with the real light output, you chimp - on a laptop for a good view - and adjust if neccessary!

I shoot live subjects with unsupported camera, because flash freezes movement anyway, and it enables me to move around freely, direct the scene, try different angles and viewpoints, or adjust the lighting.

This set also provides TWO backup flashguns for my 'primary' flashgun.

The combination of versatility, portability and power means that I use this setup often.

Maybe you can do something similar, David.


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December 12, 2006

 

John H. Siskin
  Hi David.
I have several set-ups for different purposes. I would probably take the Monolights for this sort of job: 750 watt-second Calumet and two Bowens, a 200 and 400 watt-second units. But what you want to consider is all the different kinds of work you will want your lights to do. I have something like 22 strobes NOT including the on camera stuff. I am not a well man. You should really sit down and think about what you want to light and make a plan for how to accomplish your goals. Stick to the plan.

For the prom job I would look at the Alien Bees and the Calumet Travelites and the Patterson Interfit. Remember you need to get gear you can rely on and you need some back-up equipment. Sometimes the best plan is to buy cheap gear and get extra, other times buy the best gear because you can’t take back-up. Consider whether you will have an assistant to carry everything. I recommend having an assistant. Good Luck! John Siskin


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December 12, 2006

 
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