HELP! which studio light kit 2 choose for my first home studio?

[lorena_tomblin]

<p>I just need a simple set up to begin with my home studio, i am mainly planning on baby/kids/family photography. I am between these 2 kits:<br>

<a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/621085-REG/Bowens_BW_4805USD_BW_4805USD_Gemini_500R_2_Light.html">http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/621085-REG/Bowens_BW_4805USD_BW_4805USD_Gemini_500R_2_Light.html</a><br>

or<br>

<a href="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/623148-REG/Impact_VC_500LR3K_Three_Monolight_Kit.html#ReviewHeader">http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/623148-REG/Impact_VC_500LR3K_Three_Monolight_Kit.html#ReviewHeader</a></p>

<p>but having a hard time to decide which one will be the bet to 2 buy for the $.<br>

Please please help me out! All help is appreciated. THANKS!!</p>

[Charles_Webster]

<p>For my 2 cents worth, I'd go with the Impact 3-light kit. It seems a little better value.</p>

<p><Chas><br /><br /></p>

[ellis_vener_photography]

<p>There is also http://www.alienbees.com/packages.html t oconsider. </p>

<p>You forgot to include a light meter as well. </p>

<p>But first I'd get a copy of "Light: Science and Magic" http://www.amazon.com/Light-Science-Introduction-Photographic-Lighting/dp/0240808193/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1301443235&sr=1-1</p>

[hjoseph7]

<p>I heard of Bowens, but not much about Impact. The Bowens are expandable in that you can add more powerful units. They obviously have been tried and tested since they have been on the market for a while. You can also use them with the Travel Pack which comes in handy. I would definately go for the Bowens but in my opinion, 500WS might be too powerful for a home kit.</p>

[smarksphotography]

<p>I just purchased single a Bowens 400 Gemini. From what I've read and heard, the Bowens have a good reputation. The mono lights have metal (not plastic) cases and judging from the single unit I purchased a very good fit and finish. I have not used my light long enough to have anything else potentially useful to say about it. </p>

[famico]

<p>I second the advice that Ellis V. gave.</p>

[brooks short]

<p>My choice would be Bowens.</p>

[alfredo orihuela]

<p>Well, I say, when it comes to lighting gear more is more(not less is more)<br>

in most cases anyway... so, the three units wins it for me over the other that has only two.<br>

As simple as that for me, = )</p>

[alfredo orihuela]

<p>Well, I say, when it comes to lighting gear more is more(not less is more)<br>

in most cases anyway... so, the three units wins it for me over the other that has only two.<br>

As simple as that for me, = )</p>

[aucoins]

<p>Two years ago I was in the same situation.I went with the el-cheapo mettle brand from<br>

OEC Camera Accessories thinking I would upgrade to Bowens later since they have the same mount.<br>

Instead I was pleasantly surprised with the good build , adjust ability and constant<br>

color temp.So after 2 years of moderate use I still have no need to upgrade and I bought<br>

an extra unit as a spare just in case .</p>