Need advice on picking first lighting kit

[Chancepics]

I am ready to start using light kits for both indoor and outdoor use. I do portraits/modeling and am looking for the best kit for me. Everywhere I look on the net all I hear is Alien Bees. They get nothing but good reviews from everybody. I am thinking about purchasing a kit from them. I was first leaning towards constant lighting so I can actually see what I am shooting(since I am new to this) plus they are a little cheaper but everybody says strobes are the way to go. What does everybody think? I know I will have to buy a kit then also purchase a transmitter and receiver on top of it. Do I also have to purchase a battery pack for outdoor use? I am trying to decide which 1 light kit to get: 800 or 1600. Decisions, Decisions. Thanks everybody and any feedback or advice is greatly appreciated.

AlienBees: Illuminating the Galaxy with Professional Photographic Lighting Equipment

[oldwolf]

Originally Posted by Chancepics

I am ready to start using light kits for both indoor and outdoor use. I do portraits/modeling and am looking for the best kit for me. Everywhere I look on the net all I hear is Alien Bees. They get nothing but good reviews from everybody. I am thinking about purchasing a kit from them. I was first leaning towards constant lighting so I can actually see what I am shooting(since I am new to this) plus they are a little cheaper but everybody says strobes are the way to go. What does everybody think? I know I will have to buy a kit then also purchase a transmitter and receiver on top of it. Do I also have to purchase a battery pack for outdoor use? I am trying to decide which 1 light kit to get: 800 or 1600. Decisions, Decisions. Thanks everybody and any feedback or advice is greatly appreciated.

AlienBees: Illuminating the Galaxy with Professional Photographic Lighting Equipment

Alien Bees are very good lights. You will need a battery pack or a very long extension cord if you're going to use it outdoors. Also, if you're going to use it outdoors then I'd suggest the 1600 so you can overpower sunlight with it if need be.

The Alien Bees have a modeling light that you can turn on that gives you an idea of what the shadows will look like when you take the picture.

If you're looking for portability and something lightweight then I'd stay away from Alien Bees or any large studio strobes like that. Stick to the little speedlights for portability.

[zona5101]

Originally Posted by oldwolf

Alien Bees are very good lights. You will need a battery pack or a very long extension cord if you're going to use it outdoors. Also, if you're going to use it outdoors then I'd suggest the 1600 so you can overpower sunlight with it if need be.

The Alien Bees have a modeling light that you can turn on that gives you an idea of what the shadows will look like when you take the picture.

If you're looking for portability and something lightweight then I'd stay away from Alien Bees or any large studio strobes like that. Stick to the little speedlights for portability.

solid advice.

[SusanH1970]

Another vote for AB's. I LOVE mine. Also, their customer service rocks!

[Chancepics]

I think I will go with AB i did a lot of research on them lastnight. Im new to strobes but Id figure maybe 1 B1600 for now is all I can afford (poor college student) =( Plus I have to buy the battery pack bc I live on the coast and I do a lot of beach portraits. I also need to buy remotes. I think Ill also buy a reflector as well for the outdoor bouncing.

[Chancepics]

Ive noticed on the AB website that their flases use standard light bulbs??? Isnt that cheap? I was expecting a specially made white bulb.

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by Chancepics

Ive noticed on the AB website that their flases use standard light bulbs??? Isnt that cheap? I was expecting a specially made white bulb.

Nope. The flash bulb is the standard flashtube shown on this page: AlienBees: Illuminating the Galaxy with Professional Photographic Lighting Equipment . The modeling lamp that comes with the AB is the 150watt quartz modeling lamp. They also offer a regular bulb if you want to use a lower power modeling lamp.

[i speak in math]

With the Einstiens coming out, I would think there would be a large number of used alienbee and white lighting sets coming on the market. Keep an eye out for some good deals.

[aprillove20]

Anyways, the Alien Bees have a modeling light that you can turn on that gives you an idea of what the shadows will look like when you take the picture.

[Chancepics]

I saw the Einsteins they are a bit more expensive and on backorder (doesnt say when they will become available) I wonder how they compare to the AB series