I recently received a surprise from my husband - a location to open a studio as a part-time venture. I am shooting with a Nikkon D60 (love it), have a good laptop (Dell Vostro 1720) with Lightroom 2.5, Photoshop cs4, huge hard drive (500GB), a decent tripod & wireless remote.
So, I am looking for a studio kit to get started with for mainly children/family shoots (possibly some seniors). The budget is less than $1000 (max - hubby orders) to get everything I will need to get started =( After doing my research, I am currently leaning towards strobe lighting. Here is one kit my husband and I think might be a pretty decent value for the amount included. Could you please share your thoughts on it and give ANY suggestions?
1000 watts Professional Strobe light Kit with Softbox, black/gold umbrella, Four leaf barn door, 3 backdrops and till more - $399 |
I also understand a light meter would be a superb idea, what recommendations do you have (reasonably priced)?
I am also looking at what lens(es) are best for portrait photography. I'm looking to get a Nikon Nikkor 50mm f/1.4, are there any other suggestions?
Another thing I have been eying is digital photoshop backgrounds from Photobacks Company, has anyone used their stuff and would you suggest it?
Another question I have is about online printing companies (since I don't have the means to do the printing myself at this time). Who has the best value for amazing quality in the professional printing world? I've heard a lot of amazing things about WHCC; any other suggestions or comments?
Are there books you highly recommend on various subjects in photography (love to read, love to learn).
Thanks in advance,
Melissa
PS. I am looking for honest people (and blunt, if needed).