Studio Lighting and Light Meter

[jforget1]

I am looking to start to get into some portrat work and do a little side work so i can buy more toys, (would love a macro lens). I am looking for advice on what I need to start a small studio lighting setup.
I was looking at the alienbees setups and thnking I could start with one good light/umbrella combos.
I was wondering what cabling would be in addiion, what is the trigger off the flash.
Add a reflector and stand.
Could I use my 580EX in combo with these?
I was also looking at the Sekonic L-358 for a flash meter.
A basic muslin backdrop.

What else would I need to get started?

[chris.bailey]

You will soon find a single light a bit limiting though it is fun sometimes to try to get away with a single source. If you do go the single light route, get a couple of reflectors as well

You will have problems using the 580 as well due to the pre-flash.

You will need a Wein Safesync (lots of other threads on that subject) and a flash cable that should come with the head.

The 358 is a very good flashmeter.

[jforget1]

Thanks for the info, the help is appreciated.

[scottbergerphoto]

I suggest:
1. Sekonic L358
2. Pocket Wizard Plus set to trigger lights. No cables to trip over.
3. Pocket Wizard module for the L358- $25, meter lights without a pc cord as well.

[Gary_E]

I suggest:
1. Sekonic L358
2. Pocket Wizard Plus set to trigger lights. No cables to trip over.
3. Pocket Wizard module for the L358- $25, meter lights without a pc cord as well.
do you have a part number for the pocket wizard module for the L358

[jforget1]

I think this is the unit scott is referring to in his post.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=221079&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

[scottbergerphoto]

I think this is the unit scott is referring to in his post.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=221079&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation
That's it. You can usually get it cheaper if you buy it with the L358.

[jforget1]

It looks like this includes the transmitter for the same price.

http://www.adorama.com/SKL358T.html

[Gary_E]

thanks for the info, adorama looks like it has it included
what im looking to do is use these flash heads for portait photography (sunpak platinum 300)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home;jsessionid=CTk769GMfL!2059350106?O=productlis t&A=details&Q=&sku=324080&is=USA&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation
with a digital rebel xt
i guess to trigger it properly i would need the wizard for wireless. I am not new to this I majored in Photo technologies in college but have been out of it for many years so everything is different. much better though I might add... i already have lighting stands and umbrellas...