First attempt with Lights

So I finally got what I've been wanting, a set of lights. I was in B&H today and went home with a Hensel Kit, complete with 2 monolights 500 w/s each, two umbrellas, one soft box and two stands, all of which fit nicely in a rolling soft case. I also bought the Sekonic L358 light meter. I've never used lights or a meter before.

I set up one light 45 degrees to my model's face (my wife) shooting into one umbrella, and the other light off to her side to highlight her hair, though she had it up so it didn't work as expected. Still, I've never got pictures better than this. I love the lights. Can't wait to do more experimenting. These were taken with my 17-40.

One thing I didn't buy yet is a background, but I will shortly. I know it is crucial. Try to ignore the background clutter at this point and comment on the exposure and lighting.

http://i.pbase.com …2/1/54054287.WI​1A5805.gif

First of all, I'm glad I can't just waltz into B&H, or I'd be constantly broke!
Second, congrats on your new lights..you'll love how you can control your lighting.
Your back light is definately too close though. The main light, camera right, should be just that, your main light. Dim the other one just a lot, or even don't use it at all and see what you come up with.
Have fun, and post more!

Thank you for that. For now, I'm confined to a very small space. I will definitely do as you say though. Here's one of my daughter which I think suffers from the same thing, though I was trying to highlight her hair. I think her right eye is too dark though.

http://i.pbase.com …2/1/54054826.WI​1A5802.gif

BTW, when I flash the lights and hold the meter, do I push the button before, during or after?

Not sure how your meter works, so I can't answer. I don't even own one. I use a string for consistancy!
Anyways, the light is too far to the side. Try ONE light only, 45 degrees to the camera, and use a slow shutter speed to catch ambient light.

I am no pro but still learning, Try one light directly behind the camera or You. I have hot light, (3 light set) I have found that directly behind the camera up high pointed at the subject works good. I have a set of hot lights, one day when i learn what the heck I am doing, I'll get a good set of bees or someother type of stobes. Good work though, I am on pbase too. www.pbase.com/johncoz is my profile.

Good............but its looking a bit flat.

I agree with the other suggestions.......Try putting one light perpendicular to the subject...........so u get one side lit and the other in shadows. Then, you can slowly bring up the other side by controlling your fill light.

Ro1

you use the meter to flash the lights by connecting it to the strobe then pressing the button on the meter

DOH!!

Thanks.

Thanks for the other replies too. I was away skiing/boarding with the kids last two days. Just got back. I'll definitely do more experimenting. Couldn't even sleep last night in the motel. All I was thinking about was the lights. I had just read the manual and a magazine that came with it showing different pics and the light setups.

MDJAK- You'll get the hang of that gosh darn meter. I should have ordered one when I ordered my lights. Might go buy one local tomorrow if I get too hyped up. That 358 is a nice one, huh? I was thinking that or the 308S. I kinda liek th eidea of turning that 358 into a spot meter, though.