Raw light strobe differences.

I'm well aware that refined differences in a light added to technique can make the difference between a nicely lit subject and something that seems speecial. We talk about a lot of things when it comes to different strobes but never the difference as to what the bulb and built in reflector do to the image beyond color balance and intensity.

I've usually only paid attention to what I do to modify the light after it leaves the head but I also have read from Profoto users that there is something more beauiful about what these lights give them. I assumed it was just waxing poetic or PR.

I use Elomchrom lights, I like them, and I modify the source almost always for what Inthink of as obvious reasons.

While tryingbto achieve a certain look with Mola BD's I added an Elinchrom wjite satin glass dome over the bulb on one of my lights much like I'd read mentioned Profoto users had when using BD's.

I love the difference this has made but still use a raw bulb with everything else. Some have complained that Elinchrome bulbs sit too far back in some BD's and this might be but the dome gi es me a light that I really like, no theory why, I just kept testing combinations of things until I found what made me happy.

But since i consider the key light the foundation to my lighting I have oftened if other heads as the main source might offer a more luscious look, even when used raw in a reflector.

Of course a talented photographer can make any light turn out something beautiful but the top pros do seem to have preferences and for simeone like me who likes to us as few lights as possible- like 1 or 2, it would be interesting to know if putting the money i to Profoto or Norman might be an advantage.

I have always messed with the lights, it became my nature as Inworked my way tgrough my motion career- I love this stuff.

The Molas, both Demi and Euro are thrilling me and I'm still fi di g out what I can do wih them. I started on a personal project which will onvolve 50 portraits bu the time I am done, I'm halfway through and just beginning to get it.

what do you know abou the look from different heads?

First off let me start by saying, Ive only shot Elinchrom, and never really had much experience with anything else short of playing with a few other brands briefly (like old Norman, AlienBees, etc). That being said I cant really help you too much in that area.

However, I did want to comment because Ive been around here awhile and been reading your posts Jannie for a while as well, and Ive seen you skate back and forth on the idea of going Profoto and THAT is what I wanted to comment on.

Jannie, just got out and BUY a profoto head and play with all the options. Being that youve been in this game for a long while, Im sure you already know that the only way you personally will ever decide whats best for you and what you like the most if by literally trying all the options. And the beauty part is you can return the Profoto stuff if you decide you dont like it within the 30 day period and if it takes you longer than that, its not like their gear isnt easy to sell and with minimal loss around here.

Hope Im not out of line with my presumptuous attitude toward your gear selection, but I just really think you should do it, and see where your feelings lie after the smoke settles. You really cant lose much and in the end youll gain and know for sure.

It's just so much money right now, yeah my gut has told memtomdo that several times.

Jannie,
Tell me what strobe(s) and modifier(s) were used to make this image.

I've been around this game a long time and I still can not tell which light was used. Its easier with modifiers because they do have a direct impact.

The reality is, in my view, that the light used to craft an image is the result of the photographer's insight, knowledge and experience more than its about a specific brand of light or modifier.

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Yeah I know, but it's also about the portability outside. It's a bit daunting when you're trying to do everything yourself and be spontaneous.