Lighting - where to start

[loydall]

Hi - I'm looking at investing in some lighting (availble in the UK) but don't really know where to start. I already own a 430 ex ii but I'm looking to buy some proper lights.

Now - when I say I know nothing about studio lighting, I really mean it - I read through some of the other posts but, as I don't know anything about brands/types of lighting, I was a little overwhelmed.

So, stupid question - with studio lights, are they always on or do they flash like my 430 ex? (told you I knew nothing).

I really want to get into portrait photography and I've loved some of the results I've seen with studio lighting but just dont know where to start.

Any pointers?

Thanks

[hegi]

A good start for reading is not only this forum, but also the strobist 101 to be found here: http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/03/lighting-101.html.

It is mainly about lighting techniques, but also about equipment. This should at least get you an idea, of what you want (and then a chance to us, to recommend something).

The start for many people to learn about lighting is to take a flash off camera. This can be achieved by a cord, via IR trigger or radio triggers. Having the flash off camera (mobile) will provide you with a lot of new possibilities. (see examples in the thread: Using a single strobe - creative examples - post yours (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=412392)).

Regarding your question about the studio lighting: there are both, those which are "always on" and regular "flashing" units.

[pellepiano]

Studio lights flash just like your 430, but they also have modeling light, so you better can see how the light falls.

Studio lights are usually triggered with radio or IR transmitters that you put on your cameras hot shoe.

I shoot in my small flat, so I dont need that powerful studio lights. I started with cheap chinese flash kit ( 110 ws ) that I still use today after over 4 years of use.I even bought another one.

Elinchrome is a good brand with some budget alternatives.

You can also shoot with your 430 off the camera if you get Cactus V4 transmitters or the like. Using a small camera flash off camera and an umbrella can work fine.

This one is a handheld umbrella with a Sigma 500 Super flash.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_AirWc2oO-7k/StsDgbZ-89I/AAAAAAAABkg/Rz1sO0Fe0KY/s800/sky_fix_pp_700.jpg

There is a whole site dedicated to off camera flash called www.strobist.com , they also have their own foruma and galleries at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/groups/strobist/discuss/

[loydall]

Thanks for your help - this is really useful stuff

[loydall]

by the way - pellepiano - I've seen your stuff before - awesome work. Are you over at flashkit as well?

Great work..