Studio lighting

Can anyone give me a clue on where to start with getting some decent -cost effective - lighting? Looking on the net, there is lots of info, but I don't seem to find what I need & many are brand specific
For example what would be the difference between getting a 2-light 200w system rather than 300w (or more)? I am assuming that it's just power, but what does that actually mean in relation to effectiveness?

I guess it's down to what you want to use the lights for and how creative you want to be.

When I started looking for lights myself is soon learned that it's not just about the power but the most important thing I learned is how much control the strobes offered.

After a lot of contemplation I ended up getting 3 Elinchrom Style 600s as they provided the power for bigger group and full body shots with large soft boxes and they provided 1/3 stop adjustable control over other lights I found that offered only one stop etc.

As I intended to take group and full bodied shots as well as portraits, I went for a little more power and then the remaining factor which was control which is why I chose the Elinchroms.

Obviously the cost increases depending on the control and power you need but I do recommend getting a respected make as the differences between the cheaper kits is just not comparable and they will be more cost effective in the long run and the difference will show in your photos.

Hope this helps a little.

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Paul

www.phrphotography.com

Thanks, Paul - this gives me somewhere to start.
I want to use for product capture as well as (like you)portrait & full body shots.

I'll start digging around!

Hey Dave

Paul pretty much summed it up but Bowens are a reliable source of light too (i too prefer Elinchrom tho)
Try places like Warehouse Express - Camera Accessories and Lenses, Photography Equipment, Canon, Nikon Digital Cameras
for starter kits, also try Digital camera, camera, digital dv camcorder and accessories - Jessops

and this company are in Four Marks, about 15 mins up A31 from winchester Speed Graphic for camera accessories, photographic equipment and materials.

I have used speed graphic before and can recommend them as good suppliers. Got a few bits from Warehouse but with them being mail order/web based downside is no face to face stuff..

Alternatively wait until February and try this FOCUS ON IMAGING 2008 - Welcome

Best to pre register. try to find a few going and car share

hope that little helps with Pauls advice too.

Cheers
Andy
PS just up the road in Soton mate so feel free to mail me anytime for local bits and pieces

__________________
The summer is here and the time is right,
We're going racing in the street....Bruce Springsteen

Canon Forever

1Dmk2,10D, 20mm,28-70mm,200mm, Elinchrom3000,1500,600's,500's, Multiblitz200,Bronica SQb, expensive Manfrotto tripod

Thanks for the advice Andy, will take a look at the sites & try to get up to Alton - as you say, face to face contact helps.

Thanks for the offer on local bits & pieces

Dave