Just a quick question. I have a shoot in a couple weeks - an outdoor shoot with a small group in front of a panel truck. Say about 15' across. It will take place in late afternoon so we'll have some soft daylight. I was thinking of lugging two 800 w/s monolights and umbrellas - but power might be an issue (no AC nearby and I don't have batteries). So I was wondering if 2 SB-800's on stands would be sufficient to give some fill and even out shadows. Thanks for your input. Michael
Since you can position a panel truck in any direction relative to the sun, I'd either put the truck in the shade and use a large reflector for fill or position the truck for side lighting from the sun and use a large silk. A couple of small flashes would be my last choice.
Two SB-800s should be adequate for daylight fill. This image was shot with Fuji NPZ at E.I. 400 in a mamiya 7II with a 65mm lens, probably f/8.0, with one SB-80DX (same power as the SB-800) in the hot shoe for fill in late afternoon, bright overcast conditions.
The only problem with 2 small flashes would be reflections in the truck body and subject shadows if the fill is somewhat strong. Also, in the classic 2 flash group shot positioning, cross shadows are created. I'd bring them, but I'd try to avoid using them and work with that soft daylight available. Maybe only one on-camera, really weak fill for eye sockets, if necessary. Also be creative about using the sides of buildings as a large reflector.