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12/02/2005 12:46:07 PM · #1 |
I need some quick help...
What would be the ideal starter portrait setup?
1. Strobes or continous light?
2. What 2 backdrop colors would be best...most practical/in-demand (white, black, gray, etc.)?
3. Best lens for small groups to head shots?
I've noticed that very few people comment on lighting questions like these...which leads me to believe that most people on DP don't have a clue (like myself)...but I know there are portrait people out there! I could really use some help. I have a budget of around $1500 (NOT including the lens cost). Thanks!
Message edited by author 2005-12-02 12:48:01.
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12/02/2005 12:56:06 PM · #2 |
1. Strobes are better for lighting, but continuous light is easier to work with.
2. Backdrop colors - grey is always the best color to have... black is a good second. Pinks work good too if you do lots of photos of women or girls. I suggest muslin and buying muslin at Walmart and dying it yourself is both pratical and economical and you can have lots of colors for what you would pay for two at a photo suplly shop.
3. Best lens for portraits AND small groups would be your basic 35-80 mm zoom.
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12/02/2005 12:57:19 PM · #3 |
Thanks A LOT for giving me a quick, straight answer! That helps a lot.
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12/02/2005 12:58:32 PM · #4 |
1. Strobes. Nobody wants to pose in front of hot lights. Add an octagonal softbox and/or beauty dish
2. I would think white and gray, but that's a matter of preference
3. Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 (groups and general purpose) and Canon 50mm f/1.8 or 85mm f/1.8 (head shots)
Message edited by author 2005-12-02 13:00:54. |
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12/02/2005 02:24:28 PM · #5 |
strobes all the way. they are more expensive, and can be hard to use if you have never had anyone show you how. be careful, strobes that you plug into packs hold ALOT of electricty, if you unplug them while the pack is still on it will vaporize the end of the cord and posably your hand. if you are new to strobes go with mono lamps, with built in slaves. I know alien bee makes a good one.
I think gray is most practical, and then depending on the average age you shoot would decided betwen black and white. White goes with small kids, black with older ones and adults
for the lens I would say the tamron and the canon
have you thought about tripods? light stands? posing tables? everything you need for the lights to work with your system? safe sinc, sinc cords, soft boxes ect.
there is a lot of money that will go into this if you want to do it right. |
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