<p>I am brand-new to <em>digital</em> photography (SLR film camera previously), and I now have a Canon EOS 6D with a 600EX-RT Speedlite. I want to start using off-camera flash and have been reading the strobist blog. I think I now have an okay handle on the basic equipment that I'll need to get started, but I have a few specific questions as well as am having difficulty narrowing down which modifier I want and would like some input.</p>
<p>The strobist website recommends the <em>Compact OCF Jump Starter Kit</em> ($110) from Midwest Photoexchange which includes: Westcott 43" Collapsible Umbrella with Removable Cover, LumoPro LP605 7ft. Compact Light Stand, LumoPro LP633 Umbrella Swivel w/ Flash Shoe Adapter, and Hot shoe Universal Translator kit w/16ft. Mini-mini cable.</p>
<p>I was also interested in and read good things about the Photek Softlighter II umbrella, 60" ($95) and 46" ($75). Here are my main questions:<br>
1. Is the Photek Softlighter II that much superior to the Westcott umbrella or do they perform the exact same function and I shouldn't waste my money on the Photek Softlighter?<br>
2. What are the considerations when choosing the size of the umbrella, between the 60" and 46" for example? Will the 60" light a larger group of people when doing portraits or does it just provide softer light?<br>
3. If I did go with the 60" Photek Softlighter II, would my 600EX flash be enough for that large of umbrella? Also, would the LumoPro 7ft light stand be able to hold a larger umbrella such as the 60"?</p>
<p>I have never done off-camera flash before and have been trying to learn about it for the last 2 months before I make a decision, so any other considerations I'm not thinking of would be appreciated.</p>