Studio Lights

[Merlyn]

Anyone have any input on studio lights and reflectors?
I am just starting to look around and reading up on the subject of indoor lights
and their different uses in photographing different subjects and objects. I know that this is a vast field, but any knowledge passed on is always new knowledge to someone else.

Preferred name brands, where to buy, etc...... would be helpful also.

I like the outdoors for most of my photos, this indoor thing may be just a whim.:)

Thanks

[Saralonde]

These are really well regarded.
http://alienbees.com/

[Merlyn]

Saralonde, you must be doing a mind link. I have been working what little brain I have trying to remember the AlienBee company and could not do it, then you came along. Thanks. They are close enough that I may make a trip to see them to check out their products and ask ????'s. I like the hands on before I buy deal.

Thanks again.

[Saralonde]

Great minds think alike :rolleyes: :D .

[Dan Rowe]

I made these.
http://www.dansbeer.com/images/studio%20(Medium).JPG
I got the idea from here (http://photodoto.com/index.php/2007/01/23/build-your-own-42x78-free-standing-lighting-panel-for-about-40/) and modified (http://www.calumetphoto.com/item/RM7340/) it a bit. The lights are just halogen work lights 1000 watt that I got from Rural King for $30 a piece. I am very pleased with the results and becuase the frames are made out of pvc they are light and break down to store in very little space. This was a very easy project anyone could do this.

[Bail]

I made these.

I got the idea from here (http://photodoto.com/index.php/2007/01/23/build-your-own-42x78-free-standing-lighting-panel-for-about-40/) and modified (http://www.calumetphoto.com/item/RM7340/) it a bit. The lights are just halogen work lights 1000 watt that I got from Rural King for $30 a piece. I am very pleased with the results and becuase the frames are made out of pvc they are light and break down to store in very little space. This was a very easy project anyone could do this.

EEEEK.. You spent $20.00 on a 42X42" piece of "Translucent Panel Fabric".
Here's a tip. I've been messing around with the DIY Studio stuff for awhile. There is no need to spend $20.00 on "Translucent Panel Fabric" when you can go to your local craft store (Or wherever they sell fabric) and buy 2 yards of nylon. It's the same stuff and $16 cheaper.

[Bail]

If you want to spend some money I have to agree with the alien bees. I've owned a flash unit and I love it.

Also suggest picking up a B&H Photo catalog (Or Just use the web site) where they have many kits to suit your needs.

If your going the DIY route (Which I like). Plan on getting like what Dan rowe just posted. Also get some 5000K "Daylight" Compact florescent bulbs, Small step ladder, PVC Pipe with cleaner and glue, white nylon, backrounds (Fabric store or bed sheets) wireless transmitter/receiver.

[Dan Rowe]

EEEEK.. You spent $20.00 on a 42X42" piece of "Translucent Panel Fabric".
Here's a tip. I've been messing around with the DIY Studio stuff for awhile. There is no need to spend $20.00 on "Translucent Panel Fabric" when you can go to your local craft store (Or wherever they sell fabric) and buy 2 yards of nylon. It's the same stuff and $16 cheaper.

Actually I did that first. I went to Joanne fabric and bought rip stop nylon. The light had a yellow cast to it that I didn't like. I realize that that could have been compensated for but for 10.00 more per panel I really liked the ones I got. The elastic straps were a plus.

[Bail]

Actually I did that first. I went to Joanne fabric and bought rip stop nylon. The light had a yellow cast to it that I didn't like. I realize that that could have been compensated for but for 10.00 more per panel I really liked the ones I got. The elastic straps were a plus.

Next time your at Joannes look for a nylon called "Bridal White". That's what I've been using.

[mdwsta4]

i use two flashes (canon 430ex and nikon sb-26), if i need a reflector i use my DIY one although i plan on buying a golden/silver reflector in the near future.

stand:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=1366&A=details&Q=&sku=114162&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

umbrella:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=1325&A=details&Q=&sku=423625&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

bracket:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=3536&A=details&Q=&sku=50067&is=REG&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation


if you want more flash information, check out strobist

[Dan Rowe]

Next time your at Joannes look for a nylon called "Bridal White". That's what I've been using.

Cool I'll try that. I would like to make a couple bigger ones for use outdoors. Thanks.