Adding to studio lighting setup

redhawk

I currently have two RPS Studio 300ws strobes in my new studio setup and would like to supplement them with some additional lighting. I'm seeking versatility at this point since I'm just getting started.

At this point I'm considering the following:
- 580EX Speedlite
- AlienBees B1600
- 48-inch brolly box (AlienBees)

I'd use the 580 as an off-camera (or pivoted) master. (It would also be used in non-studio settings.) The B1600 would give me a lot of light for taking group shots (of up to 15 subjects), and the 300s I currently have could be used as fill or accent lighting.

I know that there are a variety of opinions surrounding such issues, but any recommendations are appreciated. Am I overlooking anything, or does this sound like a good investment at this point?

Thank you for your consideration.

ziggy53

I think you would get the greatest use from an external flash, like the 580EX or a Sigma 500 Super. I would use "that" flash as your fill, one of your monolights as "key" (umbrella, softbox or diffusion panel), and the other monolight as background. Add a reflector on top to give a "hairlight", and you have a pretty effective system for basic shots.

Add in some more lights as you need, can afford and desire.

ziggy53

Owen

How big is your space? The AB1600 is a lot of power.

redhawk

ziggy53 wrote:

I think you would get the greatest use from an external flash, like the 580EX or a Sigma 500 Super. I would use "that" flash as your fill, one of your monolights as "key" (umbrella, softbox or diffusion panel), and the other monolight as background. Add a reflector on top to give a "hairlight", and you have a pretty effective system for basic shots.

Add in some more lights as you need, can afford and desire.

ziggy53

ziggy53,

Again I thank you for helping me out. It looks like the 580EX is a good place to start and I can go from there. Since you addressed my other thread I realize I know practically nothing about the capabilities of the 300s I already have (since I've not utilized them properly). I'll then use the lights and see where I stand.

Thanks also to Owen. I now know I need to get a better assessment of my needs before springing for the B1600.

You guys have a good night.

gavin

an ab-1600 is a lot of power, i have to ab400's and i did not have a problem lighting up a grop of 13.