Beginner studio setup: $1k Budget

After browsing this section for a while, I wanted to get my first set of studio lighting equipment, mainly stands, umbrellas/boxes/etc... light sources, remote(s) and a portable power source . Currently, all I own is a 580EX II. This equipment is intended for indoor use in a simple basement studio for portraiture work (think a decent sized corner of a basement), but might possibly used outdoors for the same purpose.

I understand there's no real "right" setup, that it's all to the artists preference, but as far as the size/shape of umbrellas, softboxes, etc.. I think I'm going to have to do a lot more research for my uses and learn what I need as I progress. I'm not so concerned about a backdrop though, just mainly lighting equipment.

With $1000, what would you get?? I was thinking about starting with the following:
-Two AB B800's
-Vagabond mini (w/ spare packs)

...gotta start somewhere, hoping you guys would help fill in the rest.Thanks- Steve.

if you're gonna get ab's, consider getting the new mini-lithium battery packs.

definitely going to pick up some of those (and some bees) around july/august

Why not go with 1 AB and use your 580EX as fill?
Or are you planning a 3 light setup?

That doesn't sound like a bad setup (2AB's with a mini). If I was jumping into studio lighting (3rd thing on my long list of equipment to buy!) that's what i would grab up.

Have you thought about wireless triggers at all?

Yah I was thinking a 3 light setup just for versatility, with my 580ex acting as a fill (if I even used it). Remote triggers tough I have no clue on, gotta research more - probably pocketwizards.

I'm pretty sure if you pick and choose wisely you should have no problem filling out your wants with a grand.

I can't comment on remotes...I just went with ABs on those, but all of my mods, all my stands, and all the nic-naks were bought between Amazon and B&H. I just ordered Sat night...very excited.

I'd be glad to list specifics if you want and anyone can correct me if they know a better deal.

CGsteve77 wrote in post #12156058
Remote triggers tough I have no clue on, gotta research more - probably pocketwizards.

A good choice, but beware that you probably don't want to spend half your budget on triggering the other half.

TheBurningCrown wrote in post #12156354
A good choice, but beware that you probably don't want to spend half your budget on triggering the other half.

ohh i see what you mean there, adapters + triggers...oh my this is going to be expensive lol

CGsteve77 wrote in post #12156058
Yah I was thinking a 3 light setup just for versatility, with my 580ex acting as a fill (if I even used it). Remote triggers tough I have no clue on, gotta research more - probably pocketwizards.

Look at the cybersyncs. Absolutely reliable, fire everytime.

Just a thought...

Get one AB and then reflect your fill. Use 580EX for hair?
It's a thought!

Kechar wrote in post #12156433
Just a thought...

Get one AB and then reflect your fill. Use 580EX for hair?
It's a thought!

Mixing speedlites with alien bees isnt as satisfying as you might think. It can work, but the practice isnt as good as it is in theory.

gonzogolf wrote in post #12156446
Mixing speedlites with alien bees isnt as satisfying as you might think. It can work, but the practice isnt as good as it is in theory.

I'm curious - other than power, why is that?

I know, but he plans to do it anyways.

Was thinking if you keep the AB as main then reflect the AB as fill you have all AB on skin and then you can pop the 580EX for hair or background?

LOL It works in my head anyways. Might better listen to gonzo!

TheBurningCrown wrote in post #12156474
I'm curious - other than power, why is that?

Power is the biggest issue. But also its so much easier to figure ratios with matching strobes, access to a wider range of modifiers, the same recycle times. I'm not saying you cant make it work, its just less satisfying to have to use the speedlites.

gonzogolf wrote in post #12156501
Power is the biggest issue. But also its so much easier to figure ratios with matching strobes, access to a wider range of modifiers, the same recycle times. I'm not saying you cant make it work, its just less satisfying to have to use the speedlites.

Perfect - thanks for the response .