How many lights to start with?

From a purely educational standpoint would I be better served by purchasing and forcing myself to learn to use a single light effectively first before purchasing a complete kit or does it make sense to just buy all four lights at the same time?

i'd start off with one light, but if you're really into it. you'll learn quickly. if you got the cash, buy all four to start with, mess around with one light, then keep adding on as you get more advanced, dont over complicate your lighting set ups from the get go, keep it simple and you should be set. i say buy them all at once because you'll be addicted and you'll probably end up buying the other three eventually, so why not save on shipping charges.

buy four or five, you can never have too many lights. You don't have to use them all at the same time.

Funding isn't the problem-it is more about the most efficient way to learn.

I'm questioning the approach in much the same way that students studying photography are told to shoot exclusively with a 50mm prime for a period of time to force them to learn to adapt.

I'd still listen to awad and get four, save on shipping. You don't have to use all the lights you get at first, but once you get better you're going to want to use more lights.

RichNY wrote in post #3192737
Funding isn't the problem-it is more about the most efficient way to learn.

I'm questioning the approach in much the same way that students studying photography are told to shoot exclusively with a 50mm prime for a period of time to force them to learn to adapt.

well. if it makes you feel better, i'm a photography student now. and our first assignment with lighting was to use two lights to create an image of styrofoam. we positioned one light to rim light the one side, and used the other light to fill in the shadows on the other side. i agree with deadpass, you can have them, but dont need to use 'em all. i have 4 strobes now, but i usually use 2 at a time. just make sure to get a light meter, it'll make all your learning much easier.

awad wrote in post #3192757
well. if it makes you feel better, i'm a photography student now. and our first assignment with lighting was to use two lights to create an image of styrofoam. we positioned one light to rim light the one side, and used the other light to fill in the shadows on the other side. i agree with deadpass, you can have them, but dont need to use 'em all. i have 4 strobes now, but i usually use 2 at a time. just make sure to get a light meter, it'll make all your learning much easier.

You should sell one of your lights and buy a chicken Great story on your web site-lol. Where are you studying photography?

I can suggest another way: since you have the 580 already, get a light stand, umbrella, sync cord and adaptors. Once get the flash off camera, you can experiment one light shooting right away. From there, you will learn what other lights you need to purchase. And you can always keep this portable kit for location shoot later.

RichNY wrote in post #3192974
You should sell one of your lights and buy a chicken Great story on your web site-lol. Where are you studying photography?

haha thanks! i'm at the art institute of philadelphia. its a great program.

2 lights minimum....1 for left and 1 for the right...minimum....

MKII wrote in post #3193120
2 lights minimum....1 for left and 1 for the right...minimum....

I disagree. But of course I'm not a professional of your stature.

do not disagree...one flash can give disaster results...distructing shadows ect...2 flashes can give THE PERFECT LIGHTING if you know how do handle it...believe me...im a pro and i ve worked a lot in this subject...

Hi Rich,

I would say that if cash isn't the problem and you see yourself moving forward with studio lighting then 4 or 5 lights makes good sense. Start learning with one and then add others into the mix but at least you'll have them. Once you get good with one light or one light and a reflector you're going to want to add others, whether to replace the reflector with a powered light or for a background or hair light. Ultimately you're going to realize you need and want additional lights.

4 lights seems to be pretty standard but depending on what you're doing you may want a fifth one. The fifth can be used to evenly light a large background or for a kicker (accent) light.

A minimum of 2 in my purely personal opinion.

I personally dont get on with filling shadow area's with a reflector when shooting portraits, but you can get great results with just 2 lights. If you can afford it, get 4, in my experience if you get just 2 it will only be a matter of time before you want to get the additionals anyway.

Do yourself a favour and get a decent light meter as well.

Hi Steve,

I absolutely agree with you but I do believe that for the purpose of learning how to 'see' light, a reflector can be a great tool for learning. No doubt he should purchase at least 2 for starters.