Beginner Studio Light suggestions

ZBlack

I am looking into getting probably 2 studio lights, along with a simple backdrop and stands for it all. I currently only have an Sb700 speedlite, and will likely use it to light up the background. This stuff will be used for your typical family and individual portraits, along with doing a photobooth setup for some weddings of people I know.

I Definitely don't need anything fancy, so I started looking around real briefly tonight. I have had very brief experience with some Alienbees and was pleased with the results so that's where I went first.

Looking at the B400
http://www.paulcbuff.com/b400.php


B & H has this Impact light for a little bit less, the Ws is 160 on both, but the recycle time for this one is 2 seconds vs Alienbees half second.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/551788-REG/Impact_VSD_160_VSD160_Digital_Monolight.html

Leaning towards the Alienbees because I'm somewhat familiar with it, the Impact one has reasonable reviews as well though. Suggestions on anything to do with this type of setup, or just these 2 lights would be most welcome.

r3t1awr3yd

Like i always say... if you own one speed light, you've got three to work with. Your speed light (you already have), the sun (totally free and makes a great rim light), and a piece of foam core board (okay, this might cost $5).

Here's a shot with just an SB600 and the sun:

ziggy53

I suggest also looking at the Adorama Flashpoint II series monolights.

http://www.adorama.com/catalog.tpl?op=itemlist&cat1=Flash/Lighting&cat2=Monolights&cat3=Monolights&Feature1=Flashpoint

The Flashpoint II 320M also allows an optional battery pack, for remote operation. For an indoor situation, in controlled light conditions, it would probably suffice.

Add a couple of large convertible umbrellas, I suggest at least one 60", and use it as shoot-through, and you can produce lovely light.

I have a pair of the Flashpoint II 1820A, because I sometimes shoot in sunlight. Indoors, they are wonderful:

ZBlack

r3t1awr3yd wrote: »

Like i always say... if you own one speed light, you've got three to work with. Your speed light (you already have), the sun (totally free and makes a great rim light), and a piece of foam core board (okay, this might cost $5).

That is a great image too! This will be for use indoors primarily, but for outdoors, absolutely use the 700 for most things. I have a 5 in 1 cheap reflector that helps out quite a bit too.

Checking out the Flashpoint II series as well now. Thank you both.