What do you light of this for a one light set up...

[miraroadvolfire]

What do you think of this package for a one light set up. Which softbox would be better if I wanted to take portraits, headshots, full length etc.

Also what would be a good system for using the light, transmitter etc. They say this one (Cyber Commander) is the best and when they talk about metering does that mean you wouldn't need a light meter. Or is this something I just don't need and is their something cheaper and wireless that I should use instead.

Take a look and see what you think....


The Paul C. Buff Single-Light Carrying Bag $12.95

The AlienBees B800 $279.95

The LSB48 Light Stand Carrying Bag $49.95

The 13-foot Air-Cushioned Light Stand $99.95

Foldable Giant Softbox $159.95
(30" x 60") with speedring attached

Foldable Large Octabox $169.95
47") with speedring attached


Thank you

[i speak in math]

I would probably go with the Octa. The 30x60 softbox has an area of 1800 sq in while the 47" octa has an area of 1830 sq in. Size-wise they are essentially equal so it really depends on the the shape catchlight you would want. I think the octa will probably be a little more even corner to corner, while the softbox might be a little dimmer in the corners. If I had the money, I'd also pick up that grid.

[miraroadvolfire]

What would you do for this part.


Also what would be a good system for using the light, transmitter etc. They say this one (Cyber Commander) is the best and when they talk about metering does that mean you wouldn't need a light meter. Or is this something I just don't need and is their something cheaper and wireless that I should use instead.

[i speak in math]

You don't need a light meter, you have one built into your camera. An external one will let you know how much power you are kicking out and what to set your aperture to. Or you could practice and figure out how your lights work. Set your settings, take a picture and look at it and the histogram. If you need to adjust, do so and try again until it looks good. After doing this a few times, it becomes second nature. You know when you set it to this power, you need around this aperture...

As for triggers, Cybersyncs are great, yes but also the most expensive. Radiopoppers JrX will let you control the power remotely from your camera which is really nice (instead of walking over to the light and adjusting it everytime). I have heard good things about the less expensive Flashwaves and the new Phottix Atlas triggers. You could also go cheap but reliable with the Yongnuo RF-602's or the lesser reliable Cactus v4.