BetterPhoto Member |
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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?
November 10, 2005
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Debby A. Tabb |
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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
November 10, 2005
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John P. Sandstedt |
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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.
November 15, 2005
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Norbert Maile |
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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.
November 15, 2005
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Debby A. Tabb |
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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
in posting this same question to the people there-they have been through some difficulties and alot of successes in portrait photography.
All my best,
Debby Tabb Also, I have some extra studio equiptment on ebay if any of you are in need of anything.the link is in my gallery.
November 16, 2005
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