Going off camera... help chose first kit

[eilatan]

I have a Canon 7D, a 580exii and I'm wanting to test out the realm of off camera lighting. Eventually, I'm hoping to use this for indoor portraits and I want to be able to take it on the go.

First of all... Yes, I've already found the strobist and I promise to study it like a good girl

But... I need help getting together my first purchase.

Bracket:

Impact | Umbrella Bracket | 3117 | B&H Photo Video

Stand:

Impact | Air Cushioned 4 Section Light Stand, Black - | 2218ABS

Umbrella:

Impact | 45" Convertible Umbrella | UBBW45 | B&H Photo Video

and Cybersyncs (battery powered trans & reciever)

AlienBees: Illuminating the Galaxy with Professional Photographic Lighting Equipment


Will this work for me?

[zona5101]

Yes that will work fine. You might need a cable to go from the flash to the reciever.

B&H has the stand, bracket and umbrella in a kit you might want to consider:
Impact | Digital Flash Umbrella Mount Kit | DFUMK | B&H Photo
a 32" instead of a 45"umbrella...

[Samanax]

Originally Posted by zona5101

You might need a cable to go from the flash to the reciever.

The CyberSync CSRB receiver does come with a cable to connect the receiver to the PC port on the 580EX II flash.

[k9mom]

You might want to add a reflector of some type for fill, especially if you're going to use a single flash set-up. A remote trigger is also helpful to prevent camera shake and to give you mobility during the shoot, especially if you don't have an assitant to help out...

Later on you can add a backdrop and support to your setup if you are going for a studio look to your portraits.

[eilatan]

Thanks for the feedback!

I do have a decent sized reflector, but not a dedicated stand. I could possibly rig something up with a tripod and a clamp.

[Samanax]

You could always use a VALS if you don't have a light stand and umbrella swivel.

VALS = Voice Activated Light Stand = human volunteer

[k9mom]

Originally Posted by Samanax

You could always use a VALS if you don't have a light stand and umbrella swivel.

VALS = Voice Activated Light Stand = human volunteer

LOL. I have a 'VALS' except I call it my Sherpa (aka, my spouse).

[inkista]

Just me being in the don't-spend-until-you-know-you-need mode, but I'd actually delay getting the Cybersyncs until you're absolutely certain that the 7D's pop-up flash as a commander unit isn't gonna do it for ya. Indoors, the proprietary near-infrared signalling is much more useful, since the signal can bounce off the ceilings and walls. Range and the need for direct line of sight aren't are stringently restricted as when used outside. See if you need the Cybersyncs before getting them. Things seem to be moving rapidly in the world of off-camera lighting, and getting triggers even a few months later might net you more features for less dough.

Not to mention that with the 7D's pop-up you have full access to eTTL, high-speed sync, and remote commanding--all things you'll be giving up with the Cybersyncs. If most of your shoots are outside, get the Cybersyncs. But you say you're planning on using this setup primarily indoors.

[private]

I would just get the AB Beginner kit

I have this except the AB400, a soft box instead of a shoot thru umbrella and a refelctor - but I am going to add another AB soon. Mainly b/c kids move out of the light so it'll be uneven sometimes...

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by private

I would just get the AB Beginner kit

I have this except the AB400, a soft box instead of a shoot thru umbrella and a refelctor - but I am going to add another AB soon. Mainly b/c kids move out of the light so it'll be uneven sometimes...

+1. I have the same setup as Pat. On top of that, their customer service is top notch!