New to Studio lightings & Environment

<p>Hello.<br>

Please forgive me as I suspect that the questions I have may have been asked previously. Maybe I have specific questions in mind?<br>

I am just getting really into studio photography and would like to set up a light-medium weight portable studio lighting. Been reading lots about and it participated in some workshops. However, I am almost frustrated as I still do not know what to purchase.<br>

Currently, I have the following:</p>

<ol>

<li>Canon 5D Mark III</li>

<li>Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT</li>

<li>Yongnuo Remote flash triggers</li>

<li>Several L lenses.</li>

</ol>

<p>I am NOT looking for something that is absolutely basic or a all-in-one starter kit where after using for a few times I'd be itching to get new equipment.<br>

Can anyone here <strong>recommend/help me a range of equipment</strong> suitable for a home set up? I have a budget of 500£ (or US 770$).<br /><strong>In short, help me build a shopping list</strong>. Please include specifications for tripod stands for lights, etc.</p>

<p><em>Note:</em> I will most likely source from amazon.co.uk. You can always recommend something that I can purchase from elsewhere. Help!<br>

Thanks!</p>

<p>It looks like you're off to a great start with the gear you have!</p>

<p>For studio lighting, you have several options in your price range. One of the considerations is how big your studio is and what you want to photograph.</p>

<p>Your first option is to use your existing 600EX-RT, mount it on a stand, trigger it remotely with your Yonguno, and bounce the light off an umbrella. For your budget, you can add another 600EX-RT, umbrellas, stands, and perhaps some reflectors and accessories.</p>

<p>Another option is to go with studio strobes, and here in the states one of the best option is to use Paul C. Buff Alien Bees or Einsteins (http://www.paulcbuff.com). I understand they do not ship to the U.K. though. If you can get them, for $500 you can get an Einstein strobe, stand, and umbrella, or for a bit more you can get a pair of AlienBees. Tons of people use these lights here with good results.</p>

<p>I looked on Amazon.com.uk and the only strobes I see offered are the "Neewer" brand. I'm not at all familiar with those, but perhaps others can chime in.</p>

<p>As for a list, to get started you're going to probably want:<br>

1. Two strobes, 500ws power<br />2. Two light stands to mount the strobes on. 2 meters or taller, cushioned ones are nice.<br />3. Some sand bags to drop on the stands so they don't fall over (http://amzn.to/1EY6bp9)<br />4. Triggers to remotely fire the strobes<br />5. Umbrellas. Convertible umbrellas like these http://amzn.to/1Kb0Ly2 are nice - you can use them both as shoot-through or bounce.<br />6. A few reflectors, like these http://amzn.to/1Jn1bC4 <br />7. Extension/power cords</p>

<p>I'm sure others will jump in and help with suggestions and other great ideas.</p>

<p>There's an entire web site that answers your questions -- <a href="http://www.strobist.com">www.strobist.com</a> Read the Lighting 101 section and particularly the parts about what gear to get.<br /><br />Strobist takes the approach of working with speedlights but much of what is said there applies to studio strobes as well. The beauty of starting with speedlights is that 1) it costs much less up front, espeically since you already have one good flash, 2) you can still use the speedlight system for location work even if you buy strobes later and 3) most of the stands, umbrellas, softboxes etc. you might buy for speedlights can also be used with studio strobes.<br /><br />Since you've got a flash and triggers, all you really need to get started is a lightstand and umbrella. You can be up and running for less than $100. Start with one light and learn it before moving on to two lights.</p>

<p>Craig,<br>

Thank you for the rather sensible response.<br>

Mean time, I should just focus on mastering the use of one speedlite first before moving on to strobes or 2 lighting sources.<br>

At least I now have a shopping list and don't have to be clueless anymore.</p>