General question ?

[screwdriver]

i would like to ask guys here , i satrted photography about 6 months ago and pretty much ok with my camera shooting with regular ambient lighting and flash. i have a nikon D70 and sb600 .
I am wondering if i wannna explore more of multiple lights off camera - probabl using manual mode . how do you guys measure how much lighting you need . i know there are formulas doing the math about distance , aperture and guide number - can these numbers also be had with the help of a light meter?

 

[jfrancis]

Are you thinking about adding more Nikon speedlights or getting into studio lighting? If the latter, I always suggest starting with one light and a reflector. What do you want to shoot with the multiple lights? Give us some more info and we will be able to advise.

 

[screwdriver]

im thinking more on studio lighting . - from headshots to whole body portraits, still also probably.
so it would be better to start simple with 1 light and 1 reflector .

 

[jfrancis]

Then I recommend:

1 Alien Bee 800 strobe
2 heavy duty 13' light stands
1 large foldable softbox
1 5-in-1 round reflector with bracket for light stand
1 pair background supports with telescoping crossbar
1 muslin background of your choice (not white unless you want to get more lights)

This is a system that you can build on as your expertise and confidence grows.

 

[screwdriver]

what size 5 in 1 reflector would be useful ?

 

[jfrancis]

I would start with 42" or so.

 

[screwdriver]

is a lightmeter a must have?

 

[eL eSs Vee]

Nothing is "required", but a meter is very helpful, especially when working with flash. It's a great timesaver. I keep a flash/ambient meter handy and use it for both.

 

[jfrancis]

Not a must - you can always check your LCD and histogram and adjust flash power etc. until you nail it. However, a meter makes it a whole lot quicker and easier. It also makes it a snap if you want to get a specific ratio between your lights. So . . . I would recommend one.