Beginner Photo Studio, Where to start?

[fischerphotos]

<p >While I’ve only done a few portraits, they have all been outdoor style portraits. I really want a small indoor studio, but don’t really know where to start. I know it will cost some $$$ but I’m willing to go for it. Like I said, I don’t want a super-fancy, super expensive one, just a little studio to do some portraits of family and friends. So where do I start? For sure I need some type of back drop and a stand to hang them from. I’m just not sure which one to get or where to get it from. Also, would I need a bunch of big fancy lights? I have a feeling that is the expensive part. I also have a feeling that a canon 580 EX 2 won’t be enough by itself. Can I here your thoughts or maybe see some photos of your photo set-ups? Thanks!</p>

[dave_redmann]

<p>To me, lighting is much more important than backdrops. You can (and I do) do it with shoe-mount flashes, and can get good results <em>as long as you use appropriate light modifiers</em> (umbrellas can look fine, no doubt softboxes can give a little more control albeit perhaps while requiring somewhat more flash power).</p>

<p>Unless money isn't much of an issue to you, you might want to start relatively inexpensive. Go read up at The Strobist (<a href="http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/">http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/</a>). No doubt that real studio lights with a modeling light and wide-range adjustable power are easier to use and more flexible; for that you may want to look at Alien Bees (<a href="http://www.alienbees.com/">http://www.alienbees.com/</a>) as a logical step up. I do not have their lights, but do use their radio triggers, which I like, and the AB's have a great reputation as modestly-prices monolights.</p>

<p>Of course, some kind of instruction, or a basic book on portrait lighting, would be good too!</p>

 

[bob_sunley]

<p>A good intro is right at the top of this page. :) Mouse over the Learning Tab, go down and click on Studio. enjoy. :)</p>

 

[anthony_bridges]

<p>It doesn't necessary have to be expensive.There are lighting packages available at Adorama, Calumet and B&H starting at $300+. These are usually two heads with ac plugs, a reflector, stands and umbrellas. Not a lot of power but it's a good start. More expensive kits can be $1000 more and include soft boxes and even hair lights.<br>

<br />If you are on a micro-budget, you can start with a one light system - an umbrella, umbrella adapter, stand and ebay poppers for triggers. You can use your current camera flash as the key light and $5 white foamcore for fill. This will set you back $120.<br>

<br />For backdrops, visit Hancocks or some other fabric store. You'd be surprised what you can use. Or, visit one of the online store to browse there selections of muslins. A decent entry level backdrop stand will cost ~ $100. Better ones are $200 or more.</p>

[david_schilling___chicago_]

<p>Here's the link to the material that Bob referenced above: <a href="../learn/studio/primer">http://www.photo.net/learn/studio/primer</a></p>

<p>I'd also suggest that you get this inexpensive DVD: <a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/414626-REG/Blue_Crane_Digital_BC201_DVD_Understanding_the_Canon.html">http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/414626-REG/Blue_Crane_Digital_BC201_DVD_Understanding_the_Canon.html</a> It provides some good info on "soft" vs "hard" lighting and by using a reflector or a 2nd EX580 or EX430 you can get some very good studio shots. Be sure to get more learning and technique info before you decide on spending money on backdrops and lighting systems. Also suggest that you avoid buying a trigger system until you understand the wireless abilities that you already have bought and paid for in your EX580.</p>

[jvalero209]

<p>Not sure if this will help you or not. Thought I would share it: http://digital-photography-school.com/how-to-build-a-studio-setting-in-your-own-home</p>

[kslonaker]

<p>I am actually close to you as I live in Corpus Christi. If you are interested, email me and I'll send you a link to Facebook, where I have pictures posted of my in-home studio. I LOVE studio work and started with nature photography, too. </p>

[sasishan]

<p>You can also put together cheap backdrops using wallpaper and plywood sheet like in this video: <a href="

I built 4 so far for my home studio and they're great...</p>