Need light! ..but what do I need........?

[JumboBeef]

OK, starting from basics...........

Mrs JB and I are good at outdoor stuff, but neither of us have done much indoor stuff. So, we need lights and other kit.

On the lighting front, we currently have a Speedlite 550EX (is that any good?) and............that's it! So, what do we need?

We don't want to spend thousands and we are not looking a complete studio set up. It needs to be easily moble.

I was thinking of a second flash (but which one) and stands, and brollies..........? What about remote triggering? Does anyone here use Lastolites and if so, which size?

How much could we get for between £300 and £500 (don't mind buying second hand).

Cheers!

 

[Flash In The Pan]

A lightstand (£10), an umbrella (£5) and a set of Cactus "Ebay" Triggers (£20) and you're good to go...

 

[JumboBeef]

Ok, thanks. Don't I need a second flash.....?

 

[Craikeybaby]

With your 550EX you can control an other Canon flash remotely (430EX/550EX/580EX), it isn't the most reliable system, but if you are indoors and using line of sight you should be fine.

The other option would to be to go for a cheaper flash and radio triggers. I'd recommend having a look at the strobist website, it's about using flash guns off camera and has loads of information.

 

[rdh]

Ok, thanks. Don't I need a second flash.....?

Get two umbrellas, one reflective (black outside, silver inside) and one shoot-through (soft white diffuser).

Reflectors (standalone type - not the umbrella type) will negate the need of a second flash (within reason); many pros recommend learning the basics with umbrellas, one flash and reflector.

As you become more comfortable controlling the single flash in manual, you'll be ready to add more lights.