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Inexpensive portable light system
rickp
Registered Users Posts: 346 Major grins
What's a good inexpensive portable light system for portraits? I'm looking for something that I can use on location. I guess battery operated is the way to go.
At this point I'm just getting started so I can't go dumping a bunch of cash into this. As I grow I'll update the system, but right now I need something that I can produce a good product and wont break the bank.
I would like to use my flash off the camera as one of the lights too if acceptable.
Thanks
R.
At this point I'm just getting started so I can't go dumping a bunch of cash into this. As I grow I'll update the system, but right now I need something that I can produce a good product and wont break the bank.
I would like to use my flash off the camera as one of the lights too if acceptable.
Thanks
R.
Canon 5DMk II | 70-200mm f2.8 IS USM | 24-105mm f4.0 IS USM | 85mm f1.8 prime.
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For maximum portability I prefer 3 - wireless flashes, either using the Canon wireless protocol or via simple RF master/slave trigger sets. (I take the RF sets regardless of whether I "think" I will need them or not.)
I use 10 foot, air-cushioned, light stands and umbrella brackets. I use combinations of convertible reflective/shoot-through umbrellas, SoftLighter, DIY scoop modifiers and a Demb Flip-It. All of this breaks down to be portable and relatively light in weight.
This works pretty well with individuals, from head shots through full length, and group shots of up to around 6 or so. Different rooms might allow even more people. It just depends upon the room properties.
For large venues nothing beats studio monolights however.
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You know I'm sitting here brain storming and researching different solutions (hence the different posts)
THen I start thinking, how much will a strobe monolight kit cost and would that work better? I figured for what I'm looking to do at this point, a couple of lights with softboxes might work. I'm looking at B&H and for about $400 they have what might be some decent solutions. Something like this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/621586-REG/Interfit_INT491_EXD400_Softbox_Umbrella_Kit.html
Now mind you I don't know if this kit is any good. I'll have to call these guys and start asking questions.
Ultimately, I though I might get more gear for the same price of a second 580II and a pocketwizard or two.
R.
I notice you use a 5D MK2 so maybe you would also like to get an Elinchrom Ranger Quadra 2 head set...It costs about the same as your Canon full frame body and is very reliable...I would wager that it would still be giving you light long after you have retired the 5d and upgraded to something else. I want one myself...(tired of my Norman 400b and 200b sets...)
But back on earth, Ha Ha...I think the Interfit Steller X-treem might also be an excellent choice for both Battery and AC use...and I think its somewhere in the vicinity of $300 or so...
What finally sold me on it was the ability to connect a portable power source to it for on location. Barring any issues I should have it in my hands by end of next week.
My learning curve has been pretty steep during all this and I don't see it slowing down any time soon.
Again, thanks to everyone that helped me out with all this. Your time and patience is highly appreciated.
R.
I also have a couple of umbrellas at home, not 60" though, if I remember right I think they are 40 or 43" (something like that).
R.
Both grids and a front "sock" diffuser can give you some extra versatility with a beauty dish.
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