the last portrait...

[OceanRider]

What would you guys buy for a portable, and effective studio for the odd wedding, family/personal portrait in someones home, or pet shot. I am kind of new to the lighting field and dont want to waist my money. Money is an issue, but I need something here.

A friend at work's husband is dying with lung cancer, (he's 28):cry: and they want a last family portrait with the new baby, (they just had their first) My photo floods are too bright for the new babe in my opinion, sooo nows a good time to buy something but I want to be smart and not waste my money.

What in your opinion would have the best "look" and yet have the best versility for future use: I have never really used either. The wireless capabilites of the 580 Ex are nice but would the soft box and umbrella of the OPUS look better in a family portrait set up?

Help is greatly apprecaited

1) http://www.henrys.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/PageDisplay?dest=frames.jsp&currency=CAD&storeId=10001

or

2) spend the money on another 580 EX

[OceanRider]

link did not work, sorry.

heres what the kit included:This kit includes:
1 Opus 100 W/S Studio Flash
1 Opus 40 watt second master slave flash
1 Opus Umbrella
1 Opus Socket with umbrella mount
1 set of Opus 4 leaf barn doors
1 Opus soft box 15" x 15"
2 Opus 7ft. light stands
1 Opus studio carrying case

[slejhamer]

A friend at work's husband is dying with lung cancer, (he's 28):cry: and they want a last family portrait with the new baby, (they just had their first) My photo floods are too bright for the new babe in my opinion, sooo nows a good time to buy something but I want to be smart and not waste my money.




Wow.

May I make a suggestion for the family portrait? Forget the gear. Use soft window light and a reflector if necessary. Dad seated holding the baby, mom behind, faces all in the same plane if possible. A triangular composition. Parents looking at the baby. Capture a sparkle of joy in Dad's eyes, if at all possible. Well, that's what I'd try.

Man, what a bummer.

Sorry, I know nothing about the gear you've posted.

[Kees Terberg]

I am not familiar with studio lights either. Is there no way of using window light or natural light at all? I guess that I just concur with Slejhamer...

[jaypie77]

Good luck with your picture - it might be one of the most important photos you ever take for somebody.

And stay away from too much lighting with the baby; I third the natural light recommendation.

[Merle]

OceanRider,

I have a thought for you. If this is potentually a last portrait and they can physically go to an outdoor location that you have previouly scouted I think I would like to have my final portrait taken with living things in the background. Look for open shade with a few flowers in background. If your client is an outdoor person maybe photograph them at one of thier favorite locations. I strongly suggest doing a break down, Starting with your clients entire family, then the client and their spouse then singles of the client. If you make this clients family happy it could be a real benifit to your career.;) :) :D

Good shooting to ya !!
Merle