About Ready To Make The Move

I've been researching and plan on picking up an EL Skyport and a Nano stand in the next couple of days. I'm still stuck on which umbrella to get. I was thinking about the Westcott 43" silver foldable, but they don't carry it at my local store. Two other options are the Photoflex 30" convertable white or 45" convertable white. Photflex also makes a 30" and 45" silver adjustable (no reviews on the adjustable umbrellas).

The 30" would would match the compact stand better, but will it be able to serve it's purpose?

The strobist blog pushes the silver umbrellas, but my local dealer says that in his opinion the light is a bit harsh.

I have never used an umbrella and don't want to regret my purchase (even though non of the options I have presented are very expensive).

I should also mention that I intend to mostly do outside shoots that will sometimes involve multiple miles of hiking.

I'm leaning towards a 30" white convertable. Good choice?

I always use silver, people who say "the light is too harsh" are often just repeating what they've heard. White may be slightly more diffuse, but i've not noticed a difference. Silver is more efficient than white, which is important with small flashes.

Umbrellas are all pretty much the same. Get the cheapest ones. If you abuse them then they'll break, so buy spares.

Thanks Tim, and what about size? I have been pondering it and I thinking I will be doing a bunch of enviornmental (full body) shots. Seems like the larger (45") might be more capable. I would love to get the smaller one if it will serve me well though.

I'd probably get a 45" or so silver umbrella. The size isn't critical.

I chose the Westcott collapsible 43" white with removable black backing (two of them), and am very happy with them. They ride on my two Nano stands and make a really nice portable setup. (And BTW I'm one of those who have tried silver umbrellas and didn't like them).