BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

Becky		Connecting the equipment in the studio Greetings! I'm in great need of answers! I minored in photography in college 3 years ago, but unfortunately have not had access to a photography studio since then. I have two cameras. I have a canon ftb that I use just for natural light photos. I also have a canon elan IIE with 420ex flash, with a bracket & off shoe cord for indoor shots. I've been shooting a lot of natural light portraits for high school seniors and family photos. I've shot several weddings too. I'm finding that my work is at a level where I'd really like to set up my own studio. Basically, I'm looking into getting a simple & portable setup with a backdrop & stand, 2 to 4 lights, and umbrellas. I really can't remember how to connect all the equipment in the studio. I feel like I might not remember all that's needed to complete a studior setup and to hook all the parts together. With this said, I have 4 questions. First - What is the necessary equipment to get started for a portable studio? Second - What cords, sync cords, power sources, etc. do I need to hook the lights together, and then run the lights to my camers & light meter so that they all work together, and trigger at the right time? Third - Does anyone know of an affordable company where I can purchase these items together as a kit, or seperately for a good price? Fourth - I met a lady who told me about a place to purchase these items called Steve Kayser Backdrops & Design out of California...but I can't find any information on this company has anyone heard of him? I would be most grateful for any help. Thanks! Sincerely, Becky Robertson To love this question, log in above 0 October 22, 2003

Piper Lehman		Becky, Kaeser is Steve Kaeser. He sells a lot of lighting and studio gear on ebay, but he also has a web site - www.kaeserbackgrounds.com Steve sells mainly Britek studio gear, which is basic and relatively cheap. I have two Britek monolights that I purchased from STeve a few months ago. I am already upgrading to Alien Bees equipment. I think you will be much happier starting with the Alien Bees or something comparable than you would with the Britek brand. Alien Bees is an excellent company. They are made by Paul C. Buff who also makes White Lightning stuff. They sell by the kit and separately. Give them a shout and they can put together anything you ask for, and they won't try to sell you something you don't need. www.alienbees.com Do a search to find reviews on this company. You will have a hard time finding any negative comments. To love this comment, log in above 0 October 23, 2003

Piper Lehman		Correction: Steve Kaeser's web address is: www.skaeser.com. If you can get through the first page while that awful music is playing, you're a better woman than I am! :) To love this comment, log in above 0 October 23, 2003

Becky		Piper, Thank you for the information! I will definitely check into the lights & equipment you suggested! Becky To love this comment, log in above 0 October 24, 2003

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