lighting kits-probably a silly question but I need to ask it

[SGToliver]

Ok, I want a lighting kit and I see all kinds of budget kits for sale. Now my question is how to get the lights on with these things? Do they plug into a wall socket or do they require some sort of box? Try to not belittle me too much....please

[autofocus]

Originally Posted by SGToliver

Ok, I want a lighting kit and I see all kinds of budget kits for sale. Now my question is how to get the lights on with these things? Do they plug into a wall socket or do they require some sort of box? Try to not belittle me too much....please

Studio lights are either always on types with fluorescent or incandescent bulbs, or flash units. Both can be powered from your wall outlet. The flash units like Alien Bees can also be powered by battery packs for remote/field use. You also have the option of standard battery powered speed lights, usually setup with a light modifier umbrella or soft box

[GreggObst]

Do you have a URL to some of the kits you are looking at ? We can give you a better idea of what you may be getting yourself into if we can see them and be on the same page.

[ArmySoldier777]

Also, before you go out and spend a ton of money on different light kits, you may want to check out this page right here. It has a few Very simple DIY projects that can save you a lot of money.
Easy build your own softbox


David

[SGToliver]

Amazon.com: CowboyStudio Photography Photo Studio Monolight Flash Lighting Light Kit - 2 Studio Flash/Strobe, 2 Softboxes, 1 Background Support System, Black & White Muslin Backdrops and Carry Case: Camera & Photo

Amazon.com: CowboyStudio Photography Photo Video Studio Continous Triple Lighting Light kit, Backdrop Support System, Black & White Muslin Backdrops, and Carry Case for Support System: Camera & Photo

Here are a couple of ones I noticed while browsing.

Also, thank you for the link, I will check it out when I get out of work.

[GreggObst]

At those prices, you really can't expect quality or durability. The kits like that may work OK if you set them up in a dedicated studio space and move them around very minimally but I think they wouldn't hold up to any location use or moving around without breaking.

Some of the Cowboy Studio brand stuff is OK but I got two cheap boom arm stands from them and they both arrived damaged and missing screws and bolts. Customer service is almost non existent.

You are better off looking at some of the kits from Midwest Photo Exchange Kits

[zona5101]

and to tag on to Gregg's comments...unless you need continuous light kits (like for video) they cheaper sets just don't have enough light output to get decent shutter speeds and apertures...

[GreggObst]

Just minutes ago, Westcott announced price cuts on some of it's gear including the 28" apollo softbox kit which includes the softbox (folds like an umbrella, can be used with speedlights or strobes), 8 foot light stand and umbrella bracket with cold shoe mount. All for $149.90

Apollo Flash Kit | Westcott Pro Photo and Video Lighting Equipment

Just add a speedlight and you are all set for a single light setup.

[SGToliver]

thanks for all the info and advice. I ended up, luckily, finding someone here in my small community (americans overseas) that was no longer using her umbrellas, stands and backdrops. I got everything for 65 euro (about 80-90 dollars). It is all pretty much brand new!

[bhursey]

Originally Posted by SGToliver

thanks for all the info and advice. I ended up, luckily, finding someone here in my small community (americans overseas) that was no longer using her umbrellas, stands and backdrops. I got everything for 65 euro (about 80-90 dollars). It is all pretty much brand new!

What are you using for light sources speed lights?