Umbrellas or diffusers for outdoor team portraits?

[clark220grit]

I'm shooting a team of 35 players and coaches. I'll be outdoors, using the E-TTL Multi Kit. B&H has an inexpensive package (Impact Digital Flash Umbrella mount kit - includes: 2 umbrellas, brackets, light stands) that I am interested in.

I'm thinking that these umbrellas and the possibility of wind may be a problem. Should I go with some type of diffusers? Or do I need anything other than the 580's on stands?

Thanks

[taygull]

I can't help but would you post a link to the kit you are talking about?

[clark220grit]

Here ya go...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=425220&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

[SkipD]

In my opinion, there isn't enough flash power in the Speedlites to do what you want to do if the primary illumination is the Speedlites. If you are just looking for a little fill, use the Speedlites without any umbrellas, as the umbrellas knock the light down at least a stop if not two.

If you are trying to use flash for the primary lighting, you will need a LOT more power. I would choose to use between two and four 320 to 640 wattsecond studio flash units as a minimum for a group of that size. They blow away the Speedlites for lighting power.

[clark220grit]

Outstanding!...I thought this thread had broken. Thanks for your input.

I'm sorry for not being more clear. I will be shooting team and individual starting at around 3:00 p.m. Central. (outdoors) Fill flash is, I guess, all that I need.

OK..no umbrellas. What about a diffuser of some kind? Or are you saying that (and this is what I think you meant) I need every lumen I can get in this situation so don't do anything to filter it?

Thanks

[SkipD]

OK..no umbrellas. What about a diffuser of some kind? Or are you saying that (and this is what I think you meant) I need every lumen I can get in this situation so don't do anything to filter it?You read between the lines quite well ;) .

[clark220grit]

Thanks a bunch...