My 1st portrait attempt- English Springer pups

[crazydays]

Ok. I spoke to the Breeder and asked if I could have the honour of photographing her litter of black and white english springer spaniel puppies! The breeder is known to me and I own a springer dog bred by her. I was thrilled when she said I could photograph them around 7 weeks of age. This is not a contract and I am only a hobbiest. I have never used a "studio" or formalized props. When picking a backdrop- should it be flat matte or a shinier material. I am thinking red or white color. Possibly white with each pup in a bow tie- plaid,red,green etc
I have a 580 flash. Do you think this would be adequate. I would bounce off whatever I can. Do you think I should get a light and umbrella-to start with?? I want to keep things as simple as I can. Maybe some of you have a few easy suggestions for me to try?

Any starting tips would be very helpful. I am enrolled in a portrait class but it won't
be in time to capture this litter of pups.
Thanks in advance

[crazydays]

I guess this thread is a bust! No probs.

[Jcas]

If i was allowing anybody to photograph my 7 week old pups, i would not want them using a flash, have you checked this aspect with the breeder?

Pups eyes are still very sensitive.

[crazydays]

Jcas- Yes and thank you, I am very aware regarding the care and concern of the pups.
My plan is to use mostly natural lighting. If I do need some flash- I have purchaced a good diffuser- even so I wouldn't feel comfortable directing at pups- this would be bounced away from them. I am going to provide a white background which hopefully will help with lighting. I have decided not to buy any "studio" lighting because I really would like some courses on this before hand.
I will be using my 50 1.4 so (crossing fingers) I will get adequate lighting and tack sharp shots without artificial lighting.
I know I will run into some issues re black and white subjects- any tips??