Strobists - Show me what you got!

[dkspook]

I'm currently building my bag of lights, strobist style. While I put the last bits together (and try cramming them into a bag), let me se your strobist/small flash kits!

What have you got - and why?
How often do you use it?
How do you carry it?
If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?

[Familiaphoto]

I'll be watching this. As someone still developing his strobist kit as well I will fid this very interesting.

Currently, all my work is indoors and close so I've been using Canon IR communication with a 580 EX II and 2 430 EXs. But once I see the RadioPopper Jrs I will make a remote trigger choice. While I will be doing a lot in manual I also want to have the flexibility to move to ETTL in the same brand line later. What I see in the Jrs will help me decide.

I also have a few stands, umbrellas an assortment of gels and light modifiers by Lumiquest, Honl, etc. You can see a somewhat complete list in my signature.

Anyway, I'll be watching.

[mrloofer]

What have you got - and why?

Canon 5D, Canon 430ex II, Nikon Speedlight SB-26 (love this flash!), Vivitar 285hv, 1xCactus V2s transmitter +2 receivers, 3 Westcott #750 light stands, 3 umbrella mounts, 3 Westcott collapsible reversable umbrealls, 1x Alzo portable softbox, Savage background stand, white/black seamless.

How often do you use it?

Every day! Typically I use the one light approach.

How do you carry it?

Case Logic case (http://www.amazon.com/Case-Logic-SLRC-5-Camera-Backpack/dp/B000VVVN04/ref=sr_1_30?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1237556668&sr=8-30). Great case but it struggles to hold the weight of my 5D+grip.

I also have the Pelican light stand case - awesome case holds 3 light stands, umbrellas and flashes in side pockets.

If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?

Get a good used flash, buying new is a waste of time IMO. I love the SB-26 flash it's my favorite and has a slave mode (which I found useful recently when one of my V2s stopped working). I got it for $80.

[Eldorf_Dragonsbane]

Even though I dont have it in my possession yet, it is currently out on the Big Brown UPS truck to be delivered today, I have the MPEX Strobist Starving Student 2 Light kit with the cactus V2s triggers 9ordered it while they still had the Vivitar 285HV kits listed, though MPEX did tell me that I will be getting the LumoPro LP120 flash unit kit instead sicne they are having trouble getting more Vivitar 285HVs in. In addition I have a Quantaray QDC-900WA Digital Zoom Flash for Canon that has a built in optical slave that I will probably use as a background light for the time being, in addition to being used on camera when I dont have need for off camera lighting.

I am looking at possibly upgrading to skyports later down the road (if/when I end up outgrowing the Cactus Triggers)

[DonE]

Still trying to get use to all of this. I love my Cyber Syncs!! They are easy to use and set up is quick. I shoot a lot of outdoor beach type shots, so I am in constent battle with the sun! I want to start shooting into my umbrellas instead of through them. Have not tried any of that style shooting yet. I still seem to get shadows when I shoot with just the diffusers. Here is a beach shot done this past Sat early morning.

http://doneggert.net/images/BRITTA_7A.jpg

and another one showing some of the shadows I talked about. Not to harsh, but I notice them!!

http://doneggert.net/images/BRITTA_2A.jpg

The set up was two speedlights. Canon 580ex II and the canon 550ex. One to the left of the camera to light up her hair and highlights as the sun was on her right side behind her. The other was to the right side of the camera as I am trying different stuff with lighting. I used the diffusers for these shots as my umbrellas began to go with the wind and I shoot alone.

If I could recommend one thing I think it would be good receivers and a good transmitter. Like I said above, I love the easy of the Cyber Syncs. I use them all the time and they have not failed me yet!

[dkspook]

I'll be watching this. As someone still developing his strobist kit as well I will fid this very interesting.

Currently, all my work is indoors and close so I've been using Canon IR communication with a 580 EX II and 2 430 EXs. But once I see the RadioPopper Jrs I will make a remote trigger choice. While I will be doing a lot in manual I also want to have the flexibility to move to ETTL in the same brand line later. What I see in the Jrs will help me decide.

I also have a few stands, umbrellas an assortment of gels and light modifiers by Lumiquest, Honl, etc. You can see a somewhat complete list in my signature.

Anyway, I'll be watching.

Uh, be sure to update once you get your RP jrs! My Skyports are in transit but I'd love to hear how those Jrs work out for you!

What have you got - and why?

Canon 5D, Canon 430ex II, Nikon Speedlight SB-26 (love this flash!), Vivitar 285hv, 1xCactus V2s transmitter +2 receivers, 3 Westcott #750 light stands, 3 umbrella mounts, 3 Westcott collapsible reversable umbrealls, 1x Alzo portable softbox, Savage background stand, white/black seamless.

How often do you use it?

Every day! Typically I use the one light approach.

How do you carry it?

Case Logic case (http://www.amazon.com/Case-Logic-SLRC-5-Camera-Backpack/dp/B000VVVN04/ref=sr_1_30?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1237556668&sr=8-30). Great case but it struggles to hold the weight of my 5D+grip.

I also have the Pelican light stand case - awesome case holds 3 light stands, umbrellas and flashes in side pockets.

If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?

Get a good used flash, buying new is a waste of time IMO. I love the SB-26 flash it's my favorite and has a slave mode (which I found useful recently when one of my V2s stopped working). I got it for $80.

Even though I dont have it in my possession yet, it is currently out on the Big Brown UPS truck to be delivered today, I have the MPEX Strobist Starving Student 2 Light kit with the cactus V2s triggers 9ordered it while they still had the Vivitar 285HV kits listed, though MPEX did tell me that I will be getting the LumoPro LP120 flash unit kit instead sicne they are having trouble getting more Vivitar 285HVs in. In addition I have a Quantaray QDC-900WA Digital Zoom Flash for Canon that has a built in optical slave that I will probably use as a background light for the time being, in addition to being used on camera when I dont have need for off camera lighting.

I am looking at possibly upgrading to skyports later down the road (if/when I end up outgrowing the Cactus Triggers)

Case logic case is looking good! Seems like a well thought out design! How comfortable is it to carry?

Care to share som links to the portable soft box and the Pelican light stand case?

+1 on the used flash advice. I have a 580EX II for on-camera E-TTL and 2 x 540EZ incoming from Ebay. Ended up paying 80$ for each of the 540's and they have all the features and power I could dream of.

Do share your impressions of the LumoPro flash once it shows up!

Still trying to get use to all of this. I love my Cyber Syncs!! They are easy to use and set up is quick. I shoot a lot of outdoor beach type shots, so I am in constent battle with the sun! I want to start shooting into my umbrellas instead of through them. Have not tried any of that style shooting yet. I still seem to get shadows when I shoot with just the diffusers. Here is a beach shot done this past Sat early morning.

http://doneggert.net/images/BRITTA_7A.jpg

and another one showing some of the shadows I talked about. Not to harsh, but I notice them!!

http://doneggert.net/images/BRITTA_2A.jpg

The set up was two speedlights. Canon 580ex II and the canon 550ex. One to the left of the camera to light up her hair and highlights as the sun was on her right side behind her. The other was to the right side of the camera as I am trying different stuff with lighting. I used the diffusers for these shots as my umbrellas began to go with the wind and I shoot alone.

If I could recommend one thing I think it would be good receivers and a good transmitter. Like I said above, I love the easy of the Cyber Syncs. I use them all the time and they have not failed me yet!

Sweet shots and thanks for sharing your setup!

I'm in the process of gathering this list:

5D + lenses (check!)
580EX II (Check!)
2 x 540EZ(Inbound from eBay!)
Skyports (Transmitter + 1 reciever on their way, need to get 2 more receivers) - They'll be taking over from my Cactus triggers.
3 x Light stands (Got one, need to get 2 more)
3 x Umbrellas (Got one shoot-through, need to get 2 w. removable cover)
1 x Lumiquest Softbox 3 (Still need to buy this one) because it folds flat and produces gorgeous light if you can get it close enough.
Various gels (Check!)
10 x Ball Bungees (Check!) - They rule. Really, they do.
Tons of Sanyo Eneloop AA's (Check, and 8 more inbound!) - The only AA's worth your time and money.

Gonna be carrying my 5D & lenses (I'm one of those prime-only weirdos) in a Domke F-5XC, and for now my Crumpler Karachi Outpost will be used to carry the lighting stuff. Stands and Umbrellas will be bundled using ball bungees :)

If any of you have pictures of your kits packed up and ready to go, please share!

EDITED by Mod to remove URLs with affiliate codes.

[yokotas13]

My current setup that use MOST of the time

canon 1dmk3
24-70 2.8
white balance on 5600K
580ex main light on impact stand and shoot through 32"
430 fill light with apollo softbox (mini)
another random 430 ex if needed
im using cactus triggers right now, but i have cybersyncs on teh way since hte cactus arent the most reliable things. no problems LAST shoot, but tons the shoot before.

this was done with a 580ex camera left, shoot through umbrella
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3646/3369886039_f0c0476363.jpg
and this one with shoot through about 4' high to my direct left
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3616/3369878569_4af9272208.jpg

speedlights are a GREAT idea. if i need more power, i just throw another speedlight on the bracket (i made a bracket for two flashes) and have yet to have a problem

[Darkmist]

Still trying to get use to all of this. I love my Cyber Syncs!! They are easy to use and set up is quick. I shoot a lot of outdoor beach type shots, so I am in constent battle with the sun! I want to start shooting into my umbrellas instead of through them. Have not tried any of that style shooting yet. I still seem to get shadows when I shoot with just the diffusers. Here is a beach shot done this past Sat early morning.

http://doneggert.net/images/BRITTA_7A.jpg

and another one showing some of the shadows I talked about. Not to harsh, but I notice them!!

http://doneggert.net/images/BRITTA_2A.jpg

The set up was two speedlights. Canon 580ex II and the canon 550ex. One to the left of the camera to light up her hair and highlights as the sun was on her right side behind her. The other was to the right side of the camera as I am trying different stuff with lighting. I used the diffusers for these shots as my umbrellas began to go with the wind and I shoot alone.

If I could recommend one thing I think it would be good receivers and a good transmitter. Like I said above, I love the easy of the Cyber Syncs. I use them all the time and they have not failed me yet!


Really Really nice pictures!

[sfaust]

Here is a link to some photos and listing of the contents. All in all, 4 580EX strobes, 2 SBxxx strobes, small stands, umbrellas, small softbox, clamps, gels, grip, batteries, etc, all packed in a small triangular Tenba case.

http://stephenfaust.wordpress.com/2007/01/15/grab-and-go-lighting-kit/

[dkspook]

Here is a link to some photos and listing of the contents. All in all, 4 580EX strobes, 2 SBxxx strobes, small stands, umbrellas, small softbox, clamps, gels, grip, batteries, etc, all packed in a small triangular Tenba case.

http://stephenfaust.wordpress.com/2007/01/15/grab-and-go-lighting-kit/

Great, thanks for sharing!

I know I spend too much time in wordpress when I could name your theme the second I saw the header...

[GenuineRolla]

Here's what I have, just minus my Vagabond II :

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/9605/gearm.jpg

I pack all of my lights into this large leather luggage bag. I usually carry the stands and the people that I shoot help carry some other items, etc.

[sfaust]

I thought he was asking about Strobist style kits. If I had to show my location lighting kit, well, ask my assistant. Its something like 10 cases of various sizes he has to deal with (8 heads, 12 stands, beauty dish, grids, reflectors, softboxes, 8 pocket wizards, booms, sandbags, etc). When its just me, I'm a wuss and will grab the little kit ;)

GenuineRolla, I'm with you on the Vagabond. I burned up the inverter in my portable battery setup and haven't ordered its replacement yet. I miss not having to be tethered to my car running off an inverter.

[GenuineRolla]

I thought he was asking about Strobist style kits. If I had to show my location lighting kit, well, ask my assistant. Its something like 10 cases of various sizes he has to deal with (8 heads, 12 stands, beauty dish, grids, reflectors, softboxes, 8 pocket wizards, booms, sandbags, etc). When its just me, I'm a wuss and will grab the little kit ;)

GenuineRolla, I'm with you on the Vagabond. I burned up the inverter in my portable battery setup and haven't ordered its replacement yet. I miss not having to be tethered to my car running off an inverter.


Yeah, my vagabond was charging so, I didn't feel like taking it off the charger for just a shot.

How did you burn it up???

[Eldorf_Dragonsbane]

The LumoPro LP120 is a nice little manual only flash. It is simple as can be, there is only one button, the test button, and only three switches, one on front to select mode (S= Optical Slave On, O= Optical Slave off), and two on the back to select power output (the one on the right side of the back side is also the switch that turns the flash on and off). This flash is nice, easier to use then the old Vivitar 2000(?) I bought back 10 years ago for use on my 35mm SLR, you can easily adjust the power from full to 1/32 just by sliding the switches on back (power levels are clearly marked).

Granted I still have to actually fool around with the flash, these are just quick observations since I havent had a chance to really play with them due to work.

BTW carrying everything in a 30" long duffle bag I picked up at a local sportign goods store Thursday night, for use as a lighting gear bag. I even have room for my KMart Tripod and Walmart Monopod, in addition to room for maybe another two light stands, umbrellas, and flash units depending on how I pack the bag.

[zincozinco]

spook, how are you gonna run with the 540ez, cables? do you know if they can act as master to the 580ex?

[canonphotog]

I'm currently building my bag of lights, strobist style. While I put the last bits together (and try cramming them into a bag), let me se your strobist/small flash kits!

What have you got - and why?
How often do you use it?
How do you carry it?
If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?

What have you got - and why?
Lights - (3) 550ex's and (2) 580exIIs. Why? - You can always turn down the power, but you can't always turn it up. Get enough power that it's not an issue.

6-in-1 Westscott reflector and scrim set. - Scrims can do things for you're outdoor shots that nothing else can. Reflectors can add pop to an image, soften shadows, bronze the skin, etc.

Alzo Softbox - Least expensive way to try this style of softbox, small, light weight, can be mounted on a flash bracket if needed.

50" Westscott umbrella style flash soft box. - When I want soft light and don't need to be extremely mobile with it.

(2) 42 inch shoot thru umbrella's. - to get light softer than direct flash spread out in a relatively even manner.

(4) home made "better bounce cards" - Softer light than direct flash, very portable, inexpensive to make/replace.

3/4 CTO gels cut to fit all flash heads. - Dramatic skys with subjects correctly white balanced. Still need to do the same with CTG gels but haven't had a real need yet.

PW Plus II's - enough to fire all strobes in manual if need be.

(2) FlexTT5's - To keep from needing yet another battery type in my bag. Enables E-TTL Master/slave ratio shooting in conditions when line of sight for the control signal is not possible. (I'm not having any issues with their functioning, not sure why so many people are). Also enables firing additional speedlights in manual mode (driven by pw plus II's) to raise ambient or light objects of interest in scene.

(2) Impact flash stands and flash/tilt heads - part of a kit B&H sells that gets you started without too much expense.

(2) Manfrotto convertible boom stands - easy to use boom feature keeps you from having to haul extra gear when you need to use a boom.

(1) 15# standard dumbell - to hang from the end of the boom stand as a counter balance. simple and inexpensive way to add a counter weight.

(1) 3# mafrotto boom weight - too light to use with boom stand, but works great on the bottom legs of an impact flash stand.

(1) Sekonic L758DR light meter. - You should never guess at your lights output.

How often do I use it?

I use what I need when I need it. Not every shoot requires all of it and some shoots require more that I have. It's nice to have friends with compatible gear.

How do you carry it?
When I need it all, I strap it to a small collapsible hand truck. Most of the time I don't need it all.

If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?

Try to ensure that everything in your kit is compatible and will remain compatible with any new items you add to it.

[dkspook]

spook, how are you gonna run with the 540ez, cables? do you know if they can act as master to the 580ex?

heh, I recognize that avatar from the 5D thread :)

I'm gonna get 3 of these for my Skyports:
http://www.flashzebra.com/products/0126/index.shtml

Will let me fire anything that has a hotshoe :)

But yeah, easy on the 'Bees, guys, they aren't exactly "strobist"... ;)

[cvt01]

I have these on my 540's: http://www.flashzebra.com/products/0128/index.shtml
My cybersyncs came with the cable. I even use these on my 580exII I hate PC sync standard so much. Mono jack rulez!
This is my advice to the next guy: stay away form PC sync standard and the ebay triggers. (the money I spent on useless pc cables and ebay triggers would have bought me a cybersync transmitter + 1 reciever...)

[sfaust]

Yeah, my vagabond was charging so, I didn't feel like taking it off the charger for just a shot.

How did you burn it up???

I thought maybe something happened to yours. Glad to see it was just charging :)

I burnt mine up pushing it too hard. I was using it during one of my workshops, and had too many strobes running off it pounding too hard, or fate just got it. Either way, it went DOA and I haven't replaced it yet. Im thinking of two 1000W pure sine wave inverters
rather than just the single 600w one. A bit more in capacity, and the second one can be used to split the load under higher use situations, and as a backup just in case.

[zincozinco]

What about the cheapo optical hotshoes? Do they work ok?? I just bought 3... A guy have to try no??

[dkspook]

What about the cheapo optical hotshoes? Do they work ok?? I just bought 3... A guy have to try no??

As long as the flashes can see eachother, it ought to work :)

[ALaS]

I've got a tripod bag with 3 stands, 3 umbrellas, swivels, gels, modifiers, and what not. Another bag for by tripod (feisol) with a couple of home made shoots. My csmra bag has my gripped 30D with a 17-55f/2.8 attatched and three strobes: a 580 ex II,and two SB-26's.

Sometimes I bring reflectors and a beauty dish (all home made) but hey don't really fit into any bags I have. I'm picking up a softbox soon.

I try to take atleast my camera bag with. E everywhere but if I know I'm going to shoot I'll bring the whole gang.

[manipula]

Currently a fairly basic setup.

2x 580 EX II's - simply because I wanted flashes I could use onboard the camera for simple jobs if need be, as well as something with the sync socket.

Cybersyncs, 1 transmitter, and 2 receivers. These were a big gamble for me personally, as I had to import them privately into NZ, and stand to the cost if they sucked. Thankfully they don't, good job as they were $610 landed.

Orbis ringflash adapter. It works, well. Simple as that.

All generally used with a 5D and 24-70, but also with the 17-40 and 50mm at times. Next stop is a proper studio biased set of lights. Really took them for granted when I was at uni/college and miss them a lot now.

[zincozinco]

As long as the flashes can see eachother, it ought to work :)

cool it was only 15 bucks for 3... ill see when they arrive, im doing a setup today with a litle girl for her Comunion shot, 2x580ex and a 540 with cable.... ill throw in some reflectors for fun as well... my first paid strobist gig, i dont count events with a lot of people and such where eventually i end up setting up for a few of the shots. this is all strobist like a studio but outside... :)

[ZSutton]

What I have-

Flashes
430EX
420EZ
540EZ
Sunpak 555

Stands-
3 Manfrotto Light Stands

Modifiers-
Photoflex Medium Multidome Softbox (36x24 I think)
Westcott Apollo 28" Softbox
Westcott 36" White Umbrella
42" White Umbrella

And ofcourse Opitical Triggers, Cybersyncs, and Umbrella brackets

[ALaS]

And here's a quick recent shot (this was one of the days I only had my camera bag and 1 stand and 1 umbrella):
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3648/3378915402_f290883c1f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alas26/3378915402/)

[JDubya]

What | Why | Use Frequency
580ex | It was the best at the time | It's my main flash
Promaster FTD 7000M | It's the equivalent of a 430ex and was only $35 | It's my second most used flash
Vivitar 285 | an OG unit from the 70s that was my dad's (read: free) | third most used
Quantaray QAF 6600 | It was free (no manual mode) | sometimes used

Gels w/plexiglass holder | gels were free at a local dealer and are a must-have accessory | whenever I need to match lighting or add special effects

Cactus V2s trigger and 4 receivers modded (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17547754@N03/3168046363/) with an 1/8" jack and lanyard | cheap and effective | all the time

(2) Manfrotto Nano 001B compact light stands w/swivel brackets
Westcott collapsable (double fold) shoot-through umbrealla
Westcott collapsable (double fold) shoot through umbrealla with removable black cover
~To go with the portableness of speedlites I wanted compact/portable stands and umbrellas


2'x3' Amvona Dynaphos softbox modded for speedlite use (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=552688) | I got it for $30 on ebay | whenever I need softbox style light
W-806 light stand | $16 shipped on ebay | whenever I use the softbox

How Carried
When it's just my camera, a couple lenses and a flash or two I use a Tamrac 5605 Pro 5 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17547754@N03/3378889655/) bag.

When I need that plus a stand or two I stuff that bag into my Jansport backpack and put the Nano stands and umbrellas in the mesh water bottle holders on the side. Each umbrella is attached to a stand via a ball bungee.

When I want all that plus my GITZO 1541T (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17547754@N03/3202518487/) I put the stands, umbrellas, and tripod into a badass bag, which I'll unveil once I get my blog/site up and running ;)

[zincozinco]

Spook ( or anyone) , I found this is it a good deal??

from: http://www.theflashcentre.com (uk)

[Marloon]

here's my strobist kit!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/SclaeFN4LfI/AAAAAAAAAIA/BbPpTQLRdpw/s800/20090324-IMG_6474.jpg

- 4 285hvs
- 1 v4 transmitter (not yet here)
- 4 v4 receivers (not yet here either)
- 2 v2s transmitter for backup
- 5 v2s receivers for back up (Only 1 in the picture)
- 3 8" air cushioned light stands
- 1 3" 2-section light stand
- 32 eneloop AA batteries
- 2 eneloop chargers
- 1 set of rosco gel packs
- 2 45" convertible umbrellas
- 2 32" convertible umbrellas
- 5 hot shoe adapters (if i need pc syncing)
- 3 sky-4 hot shoes pc-sync w/ optical triggers
- 2 DIY dual flash brackets

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/Sclan58G1zI/AAAAAAAAAIE/lCGH-ABMr7A/s800/20090324-IMG_6478.jpg
i carry my flash and accessories around using a lowepro ex 180.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/Sclax80lJFI/AAAAAAAAAII/37ILAe8f7As/s800/20090324-IMG_6480.jpg
i carry my light stands and umbrellas using impact's lightstand bag

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/Scla7P2-D7I/AAAAAAAAAIM/-D4feke68D4/s800/20090324-IMG_6481.jpg"
When its all said and done, i carry two bags. (w/o my main camera bag)

I use this set whenever i have shoots and events. when i am out with my friends, i never bring this around. i just leave it at home. funny thing is, whenever i go to big events, my gear usually trumps the main photographer's gear. lol

my goal in the future is to upgrade to BEEs! i want 4 b800s and a ABR800. :D once i upgrade to that new set, this will all be sold in one go for 500 canadian. (but that will be in about year).

[Darkmist]

here's my strobist kit!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/SclaeFN4LfI/AAAAAAAAAIA/BbPpTQLRdpw/s800/20090324-IMG_6474.jpg

- 4 285hvs
- 1 v4 transmitter (not yet here)
- 4 v4 receivers (not yet here either)
- 2 v2s transmitter for backup
- 5 v2s receivers for back up (Only 1 in the picture)
- 3 8" air cushioned light stands
- 1 3" 2-section light stand
- 32 eneloop AA batteries
- 2 eneloop chargers
- 1 set of rosco gel packs
- 2 45" convertible umbrellas
- 2 32" convertible umbrellas
- 5 hot shoe adapters (if i need pc syncing)
- 3 sky-4 hot shoes pc-sync w/ optical triggers
- 2 DIY dual flash brackets

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/Sclan58G1zI/AAAAAAAAAIE/lCGH-ABMr7A/s800/20090324-IMG_6478.jpg
i carry my flash and accessories around using a lowepro ex 180.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/Sclax80lJFI/AAAAAAAAAII/37ILAe8f7As/s800/20090324-IMG_6480.jpg
i carry my light stands and umbrellas using impact's lightstand bag

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_01fPbrY9Upw/Scla7P2-D7I/AAAAAAAAAIM/-D4feke68D4/s800/20090324-IMG_6481.jpg%22
When its all said and done, i carry two bags. (w/o my main camera bag)

I use this set whenever i have shoots and events. when i am out with my friends, i never bring this around. i just leave it at home. funny thing is, whenever i go to big events, my gear usually trumps the main photographer's gear. lol

my goal in the future is to upgrade to BEEs! i want 4 b800s and a ABR800. :D once i upgrade to that new set, this will all be sold in one go for 500 canadian. (but that will be in about year).

How much does this set up cost :|
It looks very very expensive....
I don't even have a way to get my flash off camera yet... :(

[Marloon]

How much does this set up cost :|
It looks very very expensive....
I don't even have a way to get my flash off camera yet... :(

it's actually not as expensive as you would imagine...

total cost is probably around 1100-1300 Canadian. It would be 1000 dollars USD.

you can get a great set started with just 500. you dont need 4 lights. you can just do everything with 2 or even 1. and each light setup is just about 180.

[Ballen Photo]

here's my strobist kit!


- 4 285hvs
- 1 v4 transmitter (not yet here)
- 4 v4 receivers (not yet here either)
- 2 v2s transmitter for backup
- 5 v2s receivers for back up (Only 1 in the picture)
- 3 8" air cushioned light stands
- 1 3" 2-section light stand
- 32 eneloop AA batteries
- 2 eneloop chargers
- 1 set of rosco gel packs
- 2 45" convertible umbrellas
- 2 32" convertible umbrellas
- 5 hot shoe adapters (if i need pc syncing)
- 3 sky-4 hot shoes pc-sync w/ optical triggers
- 2 DIY dual flash brackets

That looks like a really slick set up. Well organized too. ;)
-Bruce

[noypi93]

it's actually not as expensive as you would imagine...

total cost is probably around 1100-1300 Canadian. It would be 1000 dollars USD.

you can get a great set started with just 500. you dont need 4 lights. you can just do everything with 2 or even 1. and each light setup is just about 180.

DIY bracket looks interesting! Care to share with us how you did it?

[Cmizzle]

2x B800's
2x Impact heavy duty stands
1x Beauty dish
1x large softbox
1x Interfit boom
2x cybersync's
1x cybersync trigger
1x Vagabond II

[cdifoto]

I use this set whenever i have shoots and events. when i am out with my friends, i never bring this around. i just leave it at home. funny thing is, whenever i go to big events, my gear usually trumps the main photographer's gear. lol
Nice kit but taking all that crap when you aren't even the main photog is kinda wankerish, IMHO.

[Marloon]

Nice kit but taking all that crap when you aren't even the main photog is kinda wankerish, IMHO.

true enough...

the main reason why i take this gear with me is because i hate having on-camera flash. I hate it so much mainly because of the weight and bulk of it.

i use two main lenses when i shoot, a 17-55 and a 70-200mm, and the weight of these lenses + a gripped 40D and a flash can really hurt my wrist when shooting 5 hours of photos.

[cdifoto]

true enough...

the main reason why i take this gear with me is because i hate having on-camera flash. I hate it so much mainly because of the weight and bulk of it.

i use two main lenses when i shoot, a 17-55 and a 70-200mm, and the weight of these lenses + a gripped 40D and a flash can really hurt my wrist when shooting 5 hours of photos.
LOL. That strikes me as being rather ironic. I'm not picking on you or anything. I just find it odd. I know what you mean though. On camera carrying around vs setting that heavier stuff up once and out of the way.

If I'm indoors (think wedding receptions), I tend to have the flash on the camera to fill in plus the Vivitars lighting up the room, so it's not a kit for saving weight. It's just for improving my overall light. For portraiture then heck yeah I'm just gonna use the little transmitter on the camera and have everything else off. Kinda frees me a bit.

[Marloon]

LOL. That strikes me as being rather ironic. I'm not picking on you or anything. I just find it odd. I know what you mean though. On camera carrying around vs setting that heavier stuff up once and out of the way.

If I'm indoors (think wedding receptions), I tend to have the flash on the camera to fill in plus the Vivitars lighting up the room, so it's not a kit for saving weight. It's just for improving my overall light. For portraiture then heck yeah I'm just gonna use the little transmitter on the camera and have everything else off. Kinda frees me a bit.

the main reason why i use off camera flash and rarely use Ettl is because the events i go to have really high ceilings and i use my flashes to flood the event with light... i hate doing events because its so lively and i cant plan shots (duh)...i guess i just need more practice with ettl flash.

[cdifoto]

E-TTL is easy as f* when you've got manual strobes lighting up the room as the primary. You can lock the camera into some manual settings, leave the speedie on 0FEC and shoot the crap out of the event without much thought.

[Marloon]

E-TTL is easy as f* when you've got manual strobes lighting up the room as the primary. You can lock the camera into some manual settings, leave the speedie on 0FEC and shoot the crap out of the event without much thought.

yeah you are right! :D... i never really thought of that.

[dkspook]

Spook ( or anyone) , I found this is it a good deal??

from: http://www.theflashcentre.com (uk)

I haven't found them any cheaper anywhere in the EU. MPEX.com has the recievers at 110$, but once you add sales and import taxes on top of the shipping...

[phamster]

2x B800's
2x Impact heavy duty stands
1x Beauty dish
1x large softbox
1x Interfit boom
2x cybersync's
1x cybersync trigger
1x Vagabond II


beauty dish light quality better than a wescott apollo reverse firing 28" x 28" soft box?

i have been looking at the alien bee r22 dish .

thanks

phamster

[wcameron]

Here is my setup:

352326

CCW From Right to Left:
-Impact 3218 Boom Stand
-2 old Manfrotto Light Stands
-2 Manfrotto 001b Nano stands - My main light stands
-2 unbrella attachments left on the stands
-20 year old Fotoflext 45" convertible umbrella
-2 x Westcott 43" double fold shoot through umbrellas (one of them wrapped with a Honl Snoot and speed strap
-Canon 58EXII Flash
-old Canon 300TL Flash
-very old Vivitar 4600 with vari-slave module
-30 year old Vivitar 285 Flash with vari power modue
-set of Honl gels for adjusting flash output
-ThinkTank Trim Changer case with 3 x Pocket Wizard Plus II and PW caddies
-Manfrotto Articulating arm
-Manfrotto heavy duty Flex Arm
-Honl Speed Gobo
-Sekonic L-758DR Flash Meter
-Better Beamer for long shots
-roll of gaffing tape
-Canon off camera shoe adapter
-Westcott silver/gold reflector
-Stroboframe Flash holder
-background stand
-small light stand
-Lumiquest Pro-Max System
-pouch with tons of adapters, cables, etc
-2 x Superclamp
-1 scissor clamp
-1 Justin Spring Clamp

It all fits in an Impact bag although I usually don't bring the larger lightstands and umbrella unless I know I'm going to be doing something more ambitious.

So far the mix of different flashes have worked great using Pocket Wizards and manual outputs.

[dkspook]

How do you guys like working with the Nano stands? Are they tall enough? Sturdy enough?

[cvt01]

E-TTL is easy as f* when you've got manual strobes lighting up the room as the primary. You can lock the camera into some manual settings, leave the speedie on 0FEC and shoot the crap out of the event without much thought.

How do you trigger the manual strobes in this case? I assume the eTTL flash would be on camera hot shoe right?

[cvt01]

How do you guys like working with the Nano stands? Are they tall enough? Sturdy enough?

It could be taller but the build quality is really good and sturdy enogh to support a hot-shoe flash and an umbrella.

[OldA1]

Well, I have way too much gear and need to dedicate more time to practice with it all

1-photek people popper system with blue background and posing stool
1-morris background support system with gray velour background
5-air cushioned interfit 9' stands
1-RPS short background light stand
1-Westcott reflector boom arm
1-Interfit reflector stand

1-Metz 58 flash
2-Canon 430ex flashes
2-Canon 580exII flashes
2-Canon oc-e3
1-Canon oc-e2
2-Canon cp-e4
1-Canon st-e2
1-Custom Brackets Pro-M flash bracket
2-skyport sets

2-photogenic 32" eclipse umbrellas
2-photogenic 45" eclipse umbrellas
2-photogenic 60" eclipse umbrellas
2-westcott 45" halos

4-Lumiquest FX gel sets
2-Lumiquest pro-max system
1-Lumiquest snoot
1-Lumiquest barndoor
6-Lumiquest cinch strap
1-Interfit 42" 5 in 1 reflector
1-Westcott 32" white/silver reflector

1-Lowepro nova bag for flash stuff
1-Photogenic large wheeled softside bag (48"x18"x12")

All the flash stuff (including 48 eneloops) are packed in a small lowepro nova bag and everything is stuffed into the photogenic wheeled bag.

I have the technology - I just need to work on my 'talent' :)

Peace
Mark

[wcameron]

Love the Nano stands. I've not run into problems with them yet. I do have a few other higher stands but in reality I rarely carry them with me. The nanos in combination with the double fold wescott umbrellas make for a compact package that is more likely to be carried where the larger stands are more likely to live in my garage (which is where they DO spend most of their time).

[tetrode]

...
2-photogenic 32" eclipse umbrellas
2-photogenic 45" eclipse umbrellas
2-photogenic 60" eclipse umbrellas
2-westcott 45" halos


Are you trying to breed them?

Dave F.

[Marloon]

@ Mark... 2-Canon oc-e3? 1-Canon oc-e2?

why do you need these ETTL cords and 3 of them?!

[zelseman]

How do you trigger the manual strobes in this case? I assume the eTTL flash would be on camera hot shoe right?
I would like to know this as well. Shooting off camera and on camera at the same time would make things a lil easier sometimes

[OldA1]

Are you trying to breed them?

Dave F.

LOL - No, just bought stuff when I could, in no particular order. I haven't used the 60" yet, been happy with the results from the halos and 45". I bought the 32" first and had to use them for one band practice shoot due to low ceiling and lots of clutter - just couldn't make room for the 45" that time.

SO, I figured I would have 2 of each as a 'just in case'.

@ Mark... 2-Canon oc-e3? 1-Canon oc-e2?

why do you need these ETTL cords and 3 of them?!

Last year before losing my day job and needing to sell off some gear, I had 2 camera setups for weddings. That is why I have 2 oc-e3s, cp-e4s and 580exIIs. I sold one camera and flash bracket but kept the rest. The oc-e2 was collecting dust with a broken foot until I recently found the replacement foot - it is now a back-up.

I suppose the oc cords could have been left out of the list as they are not needed for strobist stuff - just got carried away and listed all my flash stuff.

Peace
Mark

[doubledragon]

"How do you trigger the manual strobes in this case? I assume the eTTL flash would be on camera hot shoe right?"
I would like to know this as well. Shooting off camera and on camera at the same time would make things a lil easier sometimes

I would like to know also, how do you do this?

[Cole_Schmitt]

Hey guys, since you are all strobists, would someone be able to tell me what a perfect set-up would be? I want to shoot cars/people. Just let me know, thanks :)

[ALaS]

read http://www.strobist.blogspot.com then ask questions!

[Viffer06]

I would like to know this as well. Shooting off camera and on camera at the same time would make things a lil easier sometimes

I use this set-up every now and then. Attach PW II using Camera/Flash plug to the side of the camera (flash) and Canon 580 EX II attached to hot shoe. Another 580 EX II on a light stand with PW II.

Three light combo.

[ALaS]

I at least carry with me everywhere:

1 body
1strobe
1 stand
1 umbrella

viola
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/3411589745_0d9e5d506a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alas26/3411589745/)

[R_Metzel]

Metz 44 flash
Canon 430ex flash
Canon 580EX II flash
2- Vivitar 285HV flashes
4- Cybersync Receivers
2- Cybersync Transmitters
4- 42" Wescott Umbrella's
4- 9' Manfrotto Light stands
2- Rosco Gel sets
3- Flash diffusers
Fong Lightsphere II
Triggers acc. from flashzebra
Lumiquest Color flash Gels w/ Holders
DIY snoots, barndoors, ect...
Lots of batteries
Smart chargers

[MX-ActionShots]

I've been following along with this thread, and have been slowely building my strobist kit.

Here's what I have currently:
2-8ft light stands(Fancier)
1-580EX ll as Master
2-SB-26's as optical slaves
CyberSync CST & CSRB to fire the 580EX ll
Stroboframe flashbracket
OC Shoe cord

http://photocamel.com/gallery/data/500/medium/IMG_6922.JPG

Here is what is enroute to me:

2-http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220367024733&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.ebay.com%3A80%2F%3F_from%3DR4 0%26_trksid%3Dp3907.m38.l1313%26_nkw%3D22036702473 3%26_sacat%3DSee-All-Categories%26_fvi%3D1&_rdc=1

Here is what I am still looking to get when I have the funding

Speedlite brackets with umbrellas(not sure on size yet)
More stands
More SB 26's or equivelants
A few more CyberSyncs
Backdrops and Supports

I think I have a decent kit started already though. Now I just need to put it to work!:)

[cdifoto]

How do you trigger the manual strobes in this case? I assume the eTTL flash would be on camera hot shoe right?

I would like to know this as well. Shooting off camera and on camera at the same time would make things a lil easier sometimes

I would like to know also, how do you do this?
For the Rebel guys it's kinda wacky but anyone with an XXD and higher up the food chain can do it very easily. The flash goes on the hot shoe as usual and the wireless trigger plugs into the PC socket on the side of the camera.

[ALaS]

my studio:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alas26/3415034201/

[yuriyo923]

Here is what I have:
1 580EX with built in sync port
1 550EX
2 540EZ with sync ports (had vivitar 285vh, but like this flash better, it goes down to 1/128 and easy to use controls)
3 light stands with flash brackets
2 42" shoot thru umbrellas
1 Manfroto Super clamp
4 Pocket Wizards

Want to get: B800 with power pack and power packs for my 540EZ

[jcw122]

my studio:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alas26/3415034201/

Very cool, and quite inspirational :D

[Jannie]

Oh heck, I forgot about this excellent thread when I posted my list elsewhere. I keep trying to narrow it down, then keep wanting to buy something more. I have yet to find a case but will try to use this kit more before I start collecting cases.

2 580EXII's
16-Delkin 2600MAh AA NMH batteries w/2 chargers and carrying cases.
1 Sto-Fen diffuser
1-LumiQuest Promax System Diffuser
2-Westcott, 43" white double collapse convertible umbrellas
2-Umbrella stand brackets
2 Nano Stands
1-Skyport Universal Kit w/1 transmitter and 1/receiver (will add another receiver)
1-Flashzebra 24' ETTL cable
1-Manfrotto Spring Grip Clamp
1-Matthews Super Grip Clamp with spud
1-Matthews Grip Head
1-Heavy Duty Flex Arm

I'm thinking about getting a 30" Lastolite 8-in-1 Tri Flip Refelector kit with Tri Grip
http://www.adorama.com/LSTGTFK.html?searchinfo=lastolight

This Lowell is the case I'm looking at right now, it'll easily hold everything above (except the Tri Grip Kit) and yet seems quite manageable on one shoulder with my camera bag on the other so it's only one trip from the car and it's only 22" long.
http://www.adorama.com/LLLB35.html?searchinfo=Lowell+cases

[jcw122]

Jannie the 24' ETTL cable sounds like an interesting item!

[Jannie]

Well it is, and it works. I've a lot of friends who are looking for work right now and need an new photo for their resume or want to update their photo on their website, one wants one for the back cover of a book he's self publishing, just a head shot and one thing is for sure, they say they want something that looks like they're someone that someone else might want to know (so a lot of these also get a separate shot to go on Facebook, Myspace, looking for my soul partner etc. and there will often be a wardrobe change for those). So formal portraits are not thought to be "real" pictures is what I hear. This kind of shooting is really fun, I get to work it a lot with a lot of variety in not really much time, I think the longest I've ever spent is 45 minutes and I really get a lot of control, it's a win-win and pretty ideal.

So it's easy, I meet them at a place where we can be in the shade out of the weather (it rains a lot here) or out in the open, in one 40' radius I can come up with about 6 backgrounds if I use the bokeh my wonderful lenses offer and I've got it made - almost.

The light goes up and down somedays rapidly and I've shot everything in the past available light but wanted more control. White balance can be a challenge on those days when the light goes in and out of the clouds. So the idea of an off camera fill or key is a great idea and using that ETTL cable is so easy and quick, for just a one light setup, especially accommodating the ups and downs of the overall light and changing backgrounds, this is where digital is so much fun.

Otherwise I'm much preferring going manual with my new Skyport system, both are really easy to use in the right situation. That ETTL cable from Flashzebra appears to be quite sturdy, I'm hoping it'll last.

[jcw122]

Well it is, and it works. I've a lot of friends who are looking for work right now and need an new photo for their resume or want to update their photo on their website, one wants one for the back cover of a book he's self publishing, just a head shot and one thing is for sure, they say they want something that looks like they're someone that someone else might want to know (so a lot of these also get a separate shot to go on Facebook, Myspace, looking for my soul partner etc. and there will often be a wardrobe change for those). So formal portraits are not thought to be "real" pictures is what I hear. This kind of shooting is really fun, I get to work it a lot with a lot of variety in not really much time, I think the longest I've ever spent is 45 minutes and I really get a lot of control, it's a win-win and pretty ideal.

So it's easy, I meet them at a place where we can be in the shade out of the weather (it rains a lot here) or out in the open, in one 40' radius I can come up with about 6 backgrounds if I use the bokeh my wonderful lenses offer and I've got it made - almost.

The light goes up and down somedays rapidly and I've shot everything in the past available light but wanted more control. White balance can be a challenge on those days when the light goes in and out of the clouds. So the idea of an off camera fill or key is a great idea and using that ETTL cable is so easy and quick, for just a one light setup, especially accommodating the ups and downs of the overall light and changing backgrounds, this is where digital is so much fun.

Otherwise I'm much preferring going manual with my new Skyport system, both are really easy to use in the right situation. That ETTL cable from Flashzebra appears to be quite sturdy, I'm hoping it'll last.

Good point with the ETTL cable in changing conditions. I'm not experienced with off-camera flash at all, but from what I understand, that would seem to be pretty advantageous over having to switch or tweak manual settings under changing lighting conditions or backgrounds. Neat stuff thanks for sharing!

[jcw122]

Would anyone recommend the use of older Canon or Sigma 5xx series flashes, if I can find them much cheaper than the LumoPro 120? The way I figure it, it could be useful having a wider range of power settings and a better guide number....is there any disadvantage?

Thanks.

[Eldorf_Dragonsbane]

@JCW122: I posted a response to you over in the Strobist Flickr group when you asked about the LP120 vs the Nikon SB 26, going to copy it here too.

The LP120's arent made to replace the older Nikon SB-26 flashes. They are made to be a strobist friendly full manual flash unit. The 4 sync methods give you a nice option of choosing your sync method, and as Moishe said the miniphone jack allows for a more reliable mean of syncing then the PC jack. I have noticed that the whole PC jack has a love hate relationship with the photographic community, some people love it, others hate it with a passion. You also have the hot shoe and a built in optical slave with this flash, something not every flash made has. Matter of fact you have a number of flash units out there on the market that dont even have a pc jack (let alone a miniphone jack) on them. If you are able to get an SB-26 that works for a decent price go for it. They have proved that while they might be a mule by todays standards can compete in the race just as good as newer thoroughbreds like the Canon 580EX II or the Nikon SB-900. The only real reason you might want to go with the LP120 is as Moishe said it will be brand new with a 2 year warranty, and it is simple to use.

Like the SB-26 the older Canon Flashes have proven themselves, and at one time some of the the older flashes, like the SB-26 or one of the Canon EZ series flashes were the thorough breed race horses, when they initially came out they where the Flagship Flash units with all the bells and whistles. People might knock the cheaper flashes like the LP120 or even the Vivitar 285HV since they dont have all the bells and whistles, but they work and they are able to do their jobs.

In the end get what flash you feel will do the job for you, be it the LP120, an older Canon, Sigma, Nikon, Vivitar, etc... If it works and does the job thats all that matters.

BTW Moishe sent the LP120 to Quantum for testing and they determined that the LP120s GN is 100, not the original GN of 80 that Moishe got during his testing, and not to make Moishe look bad, I am more inclined to go with Quantum's number since they probably have better testing equipment that Moishe didnt have access to when he did his testing.

[Jannie]

I'm finding that I'm either going to have to do manual or ETTl, going back and forth is confusing my poor brain. Must rest...

[dkspook]

Would anyone recommend the use of older Canon or Sigma 5xx series flashes, if I can find them much cheaper than the LumoPro 120? The way I figure it, it could be useful having a wider range of power settings and a better guide number....is there any disadvantage?

Thanks.

Canon 540EZ can be picked up from Ebay at quite reasonable prices these days... :)

Have one, will add another...

[yuriyo923]

Canon 540EZ can be picked up from Ebay at quite reasonable prices these days... :)

Have one, will add another...

I got 2 and love it.. gonna add another 1 or 2... :)

[jcw122]

Well I finally found a flash that I like, with higher power than the LP120, but cheaper than a 540EZ/SB-26. I'm still bidding on it, so I'll reveal what it is when I win the auction :)

[zincozinco]

Guys, I have just started to get serious with the whole strobist stuff!! What batteries do you use for the 580´s - bloody hell its getting expensive...! Im running through my duracells in a day....

[dkspook]

Guys, I have just started to get serious with the whole strobist stuff!! What batteries do you use for the 580´s - bloody hell its getting expensive...! Im running through my duracells in a day....

Sanyo Eneloop AA's

At the last count, I had 24 of them in my bag...

[zincozinco]

thanks, do you charge them?? if so with what :) im on the google now....

[dkspook]

thanks, do you charge them?? if so with what :) im on the google now....

They're pre-charged rechargeables that HOLD their charge as they sit in your bag. Think of them as rechargeable 2000mah alkalines - best of both worlds.

[sagray]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3468/3235285566_61ae4ef41d.jpg

[zincozinco]

They're pre-charged rechargeables that HOLD their charge as they sit in your bag. Think of them as rechargeable 2000mah alkalines - best of both worlds.

?????? what do you mean - do you not need to charge them ever? I have to google again i think, they are sold with a charger on pixmania....

BTW nice shot sagray!!

[dle42]

?????? what do you mean - do you not need to charge them ever? I have to google again i think, they are sold with a charger on pixmania....

BTW nice shot sagray!!

You still need to charge them after using for a while, but when you buy them they already come pre-charged. They just have a low self-discharge rate, so they won't be dead if you leave them in your bag for a few weeks doing nothing.

[dkspook]

?????? what do you mean - do you not need to charge them ever? I have to google again i think, they are sold with a charger on pixmania....

BTW nice shot sagray!!

You have to charge them - when you use them. They don't loose their charge just sitting in your bag like regular rechargeables :)

[zincozinco]

cool guys, thanks a lot!! Ive still got 4 duracells left so im gonna go looking tonight for these batteries.

[zincozinco]

Ive just bought three of these for my "soon to be " westcott........ :)

On westcott they charge 35 dollars!!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Flash-Mount-Umbrella-Holder-Hot-Shoe-Adapter-D1B_W0QQitemZ260394474884QQcmdZViewItemQQptZPortab le_Flashes_Strobes?hash=item260394474884

p.s Ive got my V4s arriving today or tomorrow... !!! hope they are any good, I looked at spooks comparison which was f...ing GREAT!! but i thought id go with them anyway.... in case i need the distance ... well I wont get the distance - lets face it....

[jcw122]

Just bought a Promaster 7000M!

I decided to go with it because:
-I don't care how nice the LP120 is and its "low" cost, I'm on a college budget!
-More powerful than the LP120
-It has about the same power as the 430EX
-I can easily put a miniphone connection into it
-$35 SHIPPED off eBay!

Now to buy all the other parts and I'll have my first 1-strobe setup! The most expensive part is over :)

[dkspook]

Ive just bought three of these for my "soon to be " westcott........ :)

On westcott they charge 35 dollars!!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Flash-Mount-Umbrella-Holder-Hot-Shoe-Adapter-D1B_W0QQitemZ260394474884QQcmdZViewItemQQptZPortab le_Flashes_Strobes?hash=item260394474884

p.s Ive got my V4s arriving today or tomorrow... !!! hope they are any good, I looked at spooks comparison which was f...ing GREAT!! but i thought id go with them anyway.... in case i need the distance ... well I wont get the distance - lets face it....

Glad you liked it!

There are plenty of Cactus range mods out there - Google is your friend :)

[tupper]

I have Pt-04 ebay trigger, and would like to buy another receiver (only got one in box), my local shop says you have to buy the whole set again (transmitter+receiver) which i don't want, is there anywhere cheap I could get them from online?

[sulla]

I have Pt-04 ebay trigger, and would like to buy another receiver (only got one in box), my local shop says you have to buy the whole set again (transmitter+receiver) which i don't want, is there anywhere cheap I could get them from online?

Here is where I have bought my triggers from:
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.6201
I have bought many items from this company and have never had a problem with them.

[dkspook]

I have Pt-04 ebay trigger, and would like to buy another receiver (only got one in box), my local shop says you have to buy the whole set again (transmitter+receiver) which i don't want, is there anywhere cheap I could get them from online?

Ebay is your friend :)

[Jannie]

Here's my basic kit, there's more I can carry but this gives me enough to work with.
Lowell carrying case
2-580EXII's
1- Sto-fen diffuser (carry a Lumiquest in the camera bag)
1-Westcott double fold 43" white umbrella with removable black backing
1-Elinchrom 32" White shoot through umbrella
1-Elinchrom 32" Silver umbrelly (loving this one more all the time)
1-Matthews stand #B387486 (it's heavier which will aid OCF outside)
2-Manfrotto stands #5001B
2-Umbrella brackets with cold shoes
1-Flash meter
1-Skyport Universal kit with 1 transmitter and 2 receivers
2-Battery chargers & 8 spare Nimh AA cells (I'll also carry 8 Alkaline as soon as I get cases to put them in)

I've got a SoftlighterII 46" but the above is my basic kit that's easy to carry and pack. I think I'd like to add a third light and another receiver. Might add a Hensel 32" parabolic umbrella and a ETTL 3' coil cord but that might stay in the camera bag. My camera bag also carries a 420EX with Sto-fen diffuser and LuiQuest for on camera fill.

What's cool is this is designed so I can bring along one 400BX and it's 53" Octa bag with the Softlighter stuffed in the middle and I've got a 3 light setup with a modeling lights for the key light. I can trigger the Elinchrom light with the optical slave while having the Skyports on the speedlights.

This would be for a situation like the other night when I was working in a space that was otherwise dark and I really needed the modeling light and wanted the large diffuser.

http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb200/palousegirl/Strobistkit-2.jpg

[sdsviet]

can i get the name of that lowell case or a link to it. its looks sweet and something i might get. tried googling lowell case or stand case but nothing.

[yuriyo923]

can i get the name of that lowell case or a link to it. its looks sweet and something i might get. tried googling lowell case or stand case but nothing.

Really digging that bag... how long is it?

[Jannie]

http://www.adorama.com/LLLB30.html?searchinfo=lowell+cases

Yes I've been looking at that case for a couple of weeks and just picked it up yesterday. Already if I see a few more cubic inches available, I start wondering what more I can put in the bag. I'm really trying hard to keep this one simple.

23" is what it says, I figure 22" on the inside, it has some flex to it but is padded and a very comfortable size.

[Jannie]

I think I'm done with my kit, at least for now, I have the options of using what's in that case or including the 46" Softlighter II which probably will happen a lot but otherwise I think I feel pretty balanced out.

I just ordered a few incidentals, better cold shoes and spuds to attach to them, a few small odds and ends and I think I'll work with it for a while to learn everything I can get out of what I have, do the learning as some might say. Every tool can change everything and I've been changing so much lately, getting into using speedlights, my brain feels warped.

Thanks everyone for all your help with this Strobist stuff.

[sdsviet]

theres a larger version here

http://www.adorama.com/LLLB35.html?searchinfo=LB35

unfortunately its not as compact anymore. i really wanted to pick up the smaller one but if i pick up 055xprob it wont fit in there. this is kinda pushing me towards the 190xprob eventho i will most likely pick up 055xprob just cuz its fits my 5'9 frame better.

[sdsviet]

quick question. how many pieces of the seperaters comes with this bag. i'm planning to maybe seperate a slot of a 190xprob and my bogen lightstand and umbrella and the rest is for misc like flash and batteries and what not.

Here's my basic kit, there's more I can carry but this gives me enough to work with.
Lowell carrying case
2-580EXII's
1- Sto-fen diffuser (carry a Lumiquest in the camera bag)
1-Westcott double fold 43" white umbrella with removable black backing
1-Elinchrom 32" White shoot through umbrella
1-Elinchrom 32" Silver umbrelly (loving this one more all the time)
1-Matthews stand #B387486 (it's heavier which will aid OCF outside)
2-Manfrotto stands #5001B
2-Umbrella brackets with cold shoes
1-Flash meter
1-Skyport Universal kit with 1 transmitter and 2 receivers
2-Battery chargers & 8 spare Nimh AA cells (I'll also carry 8 Alkaline as soon as I get cases to put them in)

I've got a SoftlighterII 46" but the above is my basic kit that's easy to carry and pack. I think I'd like to add a third light and another receiver. Might add a Hensel 32" parabolic umbrella and a ETTL 3' coil cord but that might stay in the camera bag. My camera bag also carries a 420EX with Sto-fen diffuser and LuiQuest for on camera fill.

What's cool is this is designed so I can bring along one 400BX and it's 53" Octa bag with the Softlighter stuffed in the middle and I've got a 3 light setup with a modeling lights for the key light. I can trigger the Elinchrom light with the optical slave while having the Skyports on the speedlights.

This would be for a situation like the other night when I was working in a space that was otherwise dark and I really needed the modeling light and wanted the large diffuser.

http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb200/palousegirl/Strobistkit-2.jpg

[pizelli]

I know - if I don't know the answer to this question - in this forum - I shouldn't be asking the question.

What is the Cyber Sync ?

[juise]

I know - if I don't know the answer to this question - in this forum - I shouldn't be asking the question.

What is the Cyber Sync ?

The AlienBees version of radio flash triggers (http://www.alienbees.com/cybersync.html).

[k4show]

Do you think I should own an umbrella and bracket for all 3 of my flashes? I only have 1 bracket and umbrella now with 2 flashes (one more on the way :P). I also only own 2 light stands, and a clamp... What do you guys think?

[dave63]

I just got back from a scavenger-hunt kind of day, hitting old camera stores around town; one in particular has a section of clearance junk, 'AS-IS' stuff. I picked up 2 Viv 283's (with battery cages, no less!) and a Minolta Auto 320X, all for $50. There were 3 more 283's there, but two of them would charge but not fire, and one would charge but then discharge the cap very loudly, without triggering the flash. I could get those for $5 each if I felt like taking on yet another project.

My DC-powered roster now stands at:
Vivitar 283's (4)
Minolta 320X
Yashica CS221
Canon 420EX
Vivitar 520 (ailing, but I think it'll work)
Honeywell Strobonar Pressmaster 800
Honeywell Strobonar Pressmaster Auto 770

and a couple of oddball small flashes, little things that mounted on older cameras, like a Honeywell unit that fits in my palm, etc. Fun to toy around with.

I'll be adding some more CyberSync receivers soon.

[conserv]

My Strobist Kit consists of:

Speedlight 430EX + 540EZ
2x Elinchrom Skyports
2x Manfrotto Nano Stand
2x Manfrotto Umbrella Holder
2x Westcott collapsible umbreallas
Manfrotto Superclamp
Honl Grid for Spedlight
Gel Pack from flashgels.co.uk (really good service there)

These things are packed in a Kids Golf Standbag i bought for a few euros at ebay, i love that bag :)

[jbergdoll]

What have you got - and why?
2x Sunpak 544
1x Canon 166A
3x Pocketwizard Plus II
2x Impact heavy-duty air cushioned 10' light stands
2x Impact umbrella swivel brackets
2x Impact 45" black-backed white translucent umbrellas

I chose the Sunpak 544's because it's a VERY powerful flash when shot at 1/1. This is very useful for portrait photography when working against the sun. Though the duration is a bit long at full power, half power is still perfectly bright and has a 1/1000 duration, which is exactly what I need for freezing motion in skateboarding. The Sunpaks are like tanks and they can take a beating, they are extremely flexible and have numerous options to control output, and to top it all off, they go for around $80 used.
I went with PocketWizards because they have been around the longest and have the most established name. They're pricy, but the quality is worth it, and they're a time-tested product, unlike many of the new triggering systems (CyberSync, RadioPopper).
The Impact gear is decent quality for cheap, which is exactly what I needed with me being a college student.

How often do you use it?
I shoot with my strobist gear on almost every shot. When I'm shooting skateboarding, it's used in every shot. Portraits I use it around 35-50% of the time.

How do you carry it?
My flashes and PW's fit in my main camera bag (Dakine Reload), and my umbrellas stay in their cases, which I carry with my light stands in the trunk of my car at all times.

If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?
Play around with, and study shadows. Learn how they fall with certain light placements so you can know how to adequately counter them. Also, don't go overboard. Maybe start with one off-camera flash, then move up to two, etc. Learn what's conducive to good-looking photos.

[erixon]

Heres what I got today. More to come. :)
http://hem.bredband.net/b122388/misc/strobist.jpg

Flashes are SB-28, SB-80DX, 430EX II. I like all of them so far!
Elinchrome Skyports (x3) I like them so far, small and light!
Esybox 24" (60x60cm) Big and soft esy to assemble!
Umbrella 36" (shoot through)
Manfrotto 026 lite tite swivel. Pretty sturdy
Dörr umbrella swivel. Its OK!
Dörr L3050 A/S (Air-Cushioned Lightstand) (x2) very nice stands!
Soligor tripod bag XXL. Room for all my gear except the flashes

Things on my shopping list are. Silver/white Reflector, Dörr LSB-1 boom stand, silver umbrella, and maybe a short 12"-24" lightstand.
You can never have enough of the good stuff! :)

.

[heymirth]

Where did you get those nice little flash/battery cases?
I like those, I kind of anal about packing my gear

thanks

[erixon]

Its the casing for the skyports. :) One case one receiver.

.

[Sam|McGuire]

I just finalized my strobist kit today!!!

-(x2) LumoPro 8" Light Stands
-(x2) LumoPro LP633 Umbrella Swivels
-(x1) Eclipse 45" Umbrella with removable bounce cover
-(x1) Westcott 32" Umbrella with removable bounce cover
-(x1) Nikon SB-25 Speedlight
-(x1) Nikon SB-800 Speedlight
-(x1) Cactus V2s trigger
-(x3) Cactus V2s receiver

[vincent_su]

Light stand X4
Boom X1
Soft box X5
Shoot thru umbrella + black backing X2
AB 400 X1
Metz 48-1C X2
Metz 32 X1
Vivitar 285 HV X2
Bower slave flash X2
Cybersync transmitter X1
Cybersync receiver X4
Plato shutter release X1

[k4show]

What have you got?
Canon 430EX
Vivitar 283 (hopefully VP-1 soon)
2 Backdrop stands now used as lightstands (very sturdy but heavy and big)
1 CTR-301P transmitter and 2 receievers
1 Umbrella swivel
1 DIY Umbrella swivel
2 32" shoot through umbrellas
1 DIY softbox
1 DIY strip light
DIY snoots, gridspots, etc
Spare AA NiMh rechargable batteries
Gary Fong Lightsphere
DIY superclamp
Lee Filters sample pack

How often do you use it?
Whenever I want to do OFC, or product shoots

How do you carry it?
In a padded box from Princess Auto

If you could recommend ONE thing to the guy next to you that wants to dip his toes in this off-camera light stuff, what would it be?
Experiment

[idesignstuff]

What have you got?
1 DIY Umbrella swivel
1 DIY softbox
1 DIY strip light
DIY snoots, gridspots, etc
DIY superclamp


we'd really like to see the DIY stuff.

I'm planning a DIY umbrella/flash swivel, and I'd really like to see how others have done it. I'm thinking that mounting the flash by its body to a plate that swivels with the umbrella would take the stress off the shoe, and put the flash on axis. I'm thinking that mounting the flash sideways, alongside the umbrella shaft would give me access to adjust the flash, and diffuse the shaft well.

[Jon Foster]

Interesting thread. I never noticed it before.

Jon.

[Photo-by-Leal]

Awesome thread GUYS!