Which should I buy?...choices linked

[MichelleK]

I have studio lighting and I am look for a beginner set with strobe lighting. I am looking at these two which are the same price. What do you think?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/121855-REG/Smith_Victor_401456_KF_3U_Thrifty_3_Flash.html#got o_itemInfo

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/50451-REG/SP_Systems_SPSTARTK_Studio_Starter_Kit.html

Thanks, Michelle

[jcpoulin]

My choice would be neither. I recommend Alien Bees as entry level strobe. Very consistant, good build, great service. Start with one stobe and a reflector and work up accordingly as needed. The B800 is probably the most popular as it has enough power for most settings.

[bcdoug]

look at http://www.opusprophoto.com/ and see if anything there looks interesting. decent quality and reasonable costs.

[MichelleK]

look at http://www.opusprophoto.com/ and see if anything there looks interesting. decent quality and reasonable costs.

the m1000 kit looks like a good starter kit for me, I am having trouble finding a non-scamming store that sells the kit, where can I buy opus products from?

-Michelle

[liza]

Go with Alien Bees. They'll serve you well until you decide to upgrade. And read the stickies at the top of this forum before you buy anything.

[kuanyu]

I'd also recomend a good look at the Alien Bees, GREAT lights for the money and fantasic customer service.

[ben_r_]

Nice starter set of Normans. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/253364-REG/Norman__Allure_C1000_Tungsten_2.html)

[SkipD]

Michelle, the kits you listed are both something you would consider junk after using them for a little while. I totally agree with the folks who are recommending AlienBees for you.

The Norman stuff shown in the link (previous post) is continuous lighting ("hot lights"), not flash.

[bcdoug]

where can I buy opus products from?

-Michelle

you'll have to do some searching in your area, as i am in canada. i got my kit from kerrisdale camera in vancouver bc.

[bcdoug]

http://www.opusprophoto.com/contact.html

contact info for opus

[TMR Design]

Alien Bees will give you the most bang for your buck. I agree with the others and would stay away from those kits and from continuous lighting.

[PipesInTune]

You want to buy something that will give you control over power output and accessories such as umbrellas, grids, softboxes, etc. The Alien Bees / White Lightning brand is great for that, as mentioned above. I've had them service units I bought in the late 80's with no problem. Can't say that about too many other companies.

The other kits are something you'll use for a while, then disgard. Save your money and buy something once.