Any tips for using a portable lighting studio?

Hi,

I recently picked up one of these: http://www.ebuyer.com …hoto-studio-kit-photostud

Any tips on using it well, ie light placement, f stop, best lens length etc?

I know a few people use home made one (I tried but ended up with annoying shadows and made the box too shallow ), so I'm also looking for a little help with how using "always on" lights work rather than flash, although I guess if I can get my two flashes to play nicely I could go that route.

Cheers,

John

Just checking my question was clear, or if its something I just have to figure out for myself.

Well, you'd have to use at least an 85, maybe 100, maybe macro would go well too (60 mm minimum).

For settings, check your flash meter. If you have no meter, fire off a few tests (different settings) and check the pix.

Cheers, I'll start with that - I have no light meter, unless you count the one on my Android phone I've no idea how to use!

It wouldn't work for flash.

Set the camera to f8, about 100-200 shutter speed, flash to about 1/2 power (close work requires less output)

shoot a few things in different 'poses'

check pix for depth of field and exposure.

If DoF is too low AND exposure too bright, reduce f to 11 or 16

if DoF is too low AND exposure is OK, reduce f to 11 or 16 AND increase flash setting to +1 or +2 (or 3/4 of dial)

if DoF is too low AND exposure is dark, reduce f to 11 or 16 AND increase flash setting to +3 or +4 (or 4/4 of dial)

if dof is Ok (doubtful at f8), just adjust the flash to suit the exposure of the picture, less for too bright, etc.

Repeat test.
If flash is at max and exposure is dark, reduce flash distance to scene.
If flash is at min and exposure is bright, increase flash distance to scene.

This should take about 30 mins, maybe, and if actually more fun than it sounds.

When you're happy, make a note of the flash setting, camera setting and flash positions and distances - this way you can just repeat it from the notes with minor adjustments for the scene.

Thats a great help, thank you, I'll also have a play around with the included lights (when I eventually build up the will to sell off my childhood on eBay )

Don't be afraid to bump your ISO if you still need a little help reaching an optimum exposure...