So where should I go now?

Please don't get upset because I am sure that someone posts this question probably once a month if not more.

I am becoming very involved with studio sessions, I am getting more requests for it these days.

Right now, I use simple home made lighting, and I essentially hang spot lights from old camera tripods. Usually I bounce the lights off walls, or hang sheets from the ceiling and bounce the light off the sheets.

I currently have one 430EX II flash unit, and since I just got the 7D, I am learning how to use the built in EOS flash system by placing the 430 around the setup using only one or two static lights instead of the normal 4.

While this is fun and all, it is showing me the limitations of not having a well thought out light setup, and the value of having good flashes.

I have looked in to Alien Bees, and I don't mind the prices, since I see the value of this already, and I am wondering, assuming that I just purchase a few B800's, would I only need one transmitter and a few receivers, or what would be the best way to setup a few B800's with room to grow.

Also, in comparison, does it make more sense to stick with the Canon flash system and possibly just get a few more 430's, just looking for some opinions & insight.

I appreciate the help in advance. Thank You.

Joey

Its time to make some decisions about what you want to do with your photography. Not that you have to pick a path and stick to it, but its easier to buy what you need up front. While I love the flexibility and portability of speedlites, they have limitations. Also, the expense of the canon units make them a pricey option. I have both setups and you really cannot compare the light from a speedlite to a studio flash like the alien bee both in terms of power and in their ability to fully fill a large light modifier like a large softbox. So if you want to do primarily studio work, or portraits on location then I would suggest the bees (along with a vagabond). If you want max flexibility, portability, albeit with less power and fewer options regarding light modifers go with the speedlites.

Thank you gonzogolf, it seems that I will be looking further into the Alien Bee options, I love the speedlites, but if what you say is correct, I don't want to be on location and just not be able to fill modifiers with enough power.

I don't want to sacrifice power for portability.

Thanks again for the advice.

joeyCes wrote in post #8824541
Thank you gonzogolf, it seems that I will be looking further into the Alien Bee options, I love the speedlites, but if what you say is correct, I don't want to be on location and just not be able to fill modifiers with enough power.

I don't want to sacrifice power for portability.

Thanks again for the advice.

Joey, Both paths have merits, but I can do some things with my bees that I simply couldnt otherwise. See if you can find someone near you that has a set you can use or at least observe. I think its a good way to go, and surprisingly they cost about the same as canon speedlights.