Strobes or slaves?

[BlueTreePhoto]

I shoot weddings, and I usually set up my Alien Bees for altar shots (which can be for 2-16 people). However I never seem to get them just right and I get shadows between people, so I was thinking perhaps flashes would do better- one head on and 2 to the sides? I prefer to take formals outdoors, but sometimes they want them indoors and who am I to argue on their day?

Anyhow, I was curious what others do for a wedding- set up their strobes before and after the ceremony (which I do now)? Rely on slaves(which would mean a lot less equipment)? Sometimes there is enough light, but it seems the bridal party is usually wearing darker colors...

Also, if I just use my 580 and 430 (and perhaps buy a second 430) do I have to worry about other flashes triggering them? I typically don't slave them and forget exactly how it works.

Really I want to transition over to a more photojournalistic style, so I suppose I should phase my strobes out to be more 'spontaneous'??

[tim]

The only differences using Speedlites will make are less setup time and less light to work with. The issues with light you talk about are the same no matter where the light comes from. Also, the color of the dresses makes no difference to the amount of light required, since you expose for the faces.