Down to Interfit/Patersons or Hensel [and why no AB] and what stands, accessories??

[CanonXTuser]

Currently, I've narrowed down my choices for a studio flash to the following with my explanation of features they have that Alien Bees, Flashpoint and SP systems don't, that I feel I should have.

1) interfit stellar 300 [300ws] or 600 [600ws] or 1000 [1000ws] units:
> s-type common accessory mounts,
> aluminum casing not plastic,
> 250 watt modeling light,
> 5 fstop range to 1/32nd power which I presume means that I can dial even the 1000 down enough to use even with product and still life shots as well as head shots.

or

2) Hensel integra pro 500:
> considered to have pro build quality
> reputation for consistent light,
> 300 watt modeling light can even shoot with
> > ability to power from 15ws to 500ws should allow for product and headshot use as well as groups [5-6 persons??]

Note that for now, I am looking to do single light shooting.

1. Comments on what I've got my list down to and the reasons?

2. Is 300ws enough to photog a group of up to 6 people [mainly bands and family shots]? 500ws? 600ws? I imagine I would need to shoot through a large diffusing panel and have side reflectors.

3. What types of accessories should I get and brand recommendations?

[CanonXTuser]

no comments???

[awad]

one guy i know that does awesome band photography uses a ringflash all the time. so if you're doing promos a lot, i'd definitely recommend a ringlash. i know hensel has a great one, however it is a bit pricey. im a big fan of ABs unit's, however. different strokes for different folks. if you can afford the hensels, i'd get them in a heart beat. the hensel porty is a sweet system too

also, i wouldnt just get one super powerful light, especially for bands. two lights will make it a lot easier to get rid of those pesky shadows. personally i'd get 2 300ws instead of 1 600ws and so forth.

[CanonXTuser]

one guy i know that does awesome band photography uses a ringflash all the time. so if you're doing promos a lot, i'd definitely recommend a ringlash. i know hensel has a great one, however it is a bit pricey. im a big fan of ABs unit's, however. different strokes for different folks. if you can afford the hensels, i'd get them in a heart beat. the hensel porty is a sweet system too

also, i wouldnt just get one super powerful light, especially for bands. two lights will make it a lot easier to get rid of those pesky shadows. personally i'd get 2 300ws instead of 1 600ws and so forth.

thanks for input. I was thinking of one very powerful light directly above camera with large diffuser or softbox. And then two reflectors on the side to catch and re-direct light at the sides of the band with band standing tightly or fairly tightly together.

[Az2Africa]

I have Hensels, so I am probably baised.:D