Food Photography - Strobe? DIY Lowel Ego? OCF?

Ok, I'm planning on doing some food photography. Not paid, but for myself. I love to cook. I want to document it. I've been reading up a lot lately, and was set on making a DIY lowel ego ($10 in parts. vs $100 new). Maybe not an exact copy of this one but close
http://jugalbandi.info …tabletop-lighting-system/

In my research I've read other food photographers tips that you should use a single source above and behind the food. But then I've read natural light from a window - which the Lowel Ego approximates. Since I cook a lot at night the Lowel DIY looks to be a good solution.

Then my GF complicates things by getting me a 580exII. Can I Rig up a little mount above and behind my shooting area and be satisfied? The space saving aspect of that would be ideal.

Or should I do both? Giving me multiple options. These photographs don't have to be production quality, obviously since I'm not a good photog ... yet, and have no clue about lighting. And I'm not a food stylist and will eat everything after I shoot it.

Actually you don't have to worry much about the set-up. What you need is juat an umbrella and two acrylic as a background (also can use white paper) and basement. Just take a look to what I did. Hope you'll get some ideas.


The set-up...

ayyy nacoo. wow

awesome setup, and inspiring photos!

Ok, some new developments. My gf got me a 580exII, and I'm looking at tolohah's photos and they are awesome.

I just wonder what's easier to lug onto the table when I'm finished cooking, a DIY lowel ego, similar to something like this: http://raccoonandlobst​er.com/2010/03/16/knoc​koffs/ Which uses CFL bulbs, or a 580exii blasting into the umbrella like above. Keep in mind, I'll be doing this on the dining room table (no dedicated room for it) as I'll be shooting what I'll be eating right after.

Also, is there no way to power a 580exII with wall power? I have to buy a battery pack or keep it on rechargeable batteries? I figure you can just plug it right into a wall socket, but I guess not?

Finally, any recommendates for good cheap umbrellas?

tolahah wrote in post #9357138
Actually you don't have to worry much about the set-up. What you need is juat an umbrella and two acrylic as a background (also can use white paper) and basement. Just take a look to what I did. Hope you'll get some ideas.

Fantastic. Where can I find a support chair like that? Yours works wonderfully.