indoor lighting solutions...

Okay, I'll start by saying that I know very little about flash and nothing about studio lighting.

I just started my business and i'm starting to get alot of interest for newborn sessions. I'm usually pretty clear about needing good light for these sessions, but now i'm starting to worry about showing up at someone's house or apt. and the lighting isn't sufficient.

Solution #1...i'm going to buy a fast prime, wider than my 85.

Solution #2...i need to figure out a lighting solution.

What should I do about the lighting? Would an umbrella and lightstand be a viable option for my 430 EX (i have the 7D so i can trigger remotely)....or would a softbox be a better option?

well, the cheaper route would be stand and umbrella/softbox...you​'d be out next to nothing...if you try that option and think a faster prime, then you could get one...

Well i'm definitely getting another lens to help the situation. I just need a lighting solution in case the fast prime isn't good enough....

so i'm a little confused...you're already doing option #1? but considering option #2 as well, is that what you're saying? well, stands, adapter and umbrella/softbox would set you back less than $100...

Yes i'm still getting the lens and i want a lighting solution as well.

Would the flash with a lightstand and umbrella give me the same results as a large softbox?

I would prefer to do what you suggest because it's cheaper and more portable...

umbrellas and softboxes will give you similar results, but i wouldn't say the "same"...you can get convertible umbrellas (you can use it to bounce the light or remove the black backing to use as a shoot-through umbrella) for ~$25...and steve kaeser has 2 softboxes for ~$35...i use these for my speedlights and like the results...

You might want to add a reflector set up opposite of your speedlight unless you have good window light. I've taken some great baby shots with 7D, 430EX on a cheap stand with a cheap white umbrella (shoot thru) and a reflector (white board from Michaels).

I just went without the umbrella and straight for the white board on a shoot...el cheapo one setting flash pointed straight up(it only tilts up and forward) and the white board behind the flash for this...I've moved up since then but you can do great things with not so great things!

Okay great....i have a reflector already...thanks so much!!!

Before you go out and buy a heap on lighting gear check out YouTube.. There are some pretty useful little video tutorials on lighting equipment and setups..

Search studio flash, Speedlites etc..

If an umbrella is an option, I wonder how this would work for you ( it's an ALZO Flash Bracket with umbrella ...
Pic Here ...
http://www.alzodigital​.com …ttl_porta_flash​_nikon.jpg
Description here ...
http://www.alzodigital​.com …_bracket_umbrel​la_kit.htm

I know I am seriously considering one.