Note: Photo tips are answers to questions asked on our Facebook page. If you would like to submit a question, please click here to submit your question. We will then post them on our Facebook page and let our fans respond to the question. We will then transfer the question over to our blog so we can keep them in an organized way for others to see.
Question from Tara: I am looking to invest in studio lights and a backdrop. Something I can take to different homes and set up with ease. I’m alright with going with lights that plug into the wall versus ones with a portable battery pack. As for the backdrop i’m looking for a frame and some sheets. Any suggestions?”
Jamie: There are a lot of portable backdrop stands in many different price ranges. Why do you want to use sheets as opposed to a roll of paper or a backdrop from somewhere likeLemonDrop Stop :: Backdrops and Floordrops?
Brian: For your backdrop; a hundred bucks can get you something like this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/437786-REG/Impact_3046_Background_Support_System.html
Then you can either use some clamps/clips to hold up a sheet, or buy seamless paper
As for your strobes, you will need a lightstand or a boom to hold your light. Stands go for around 40 bucks a pop
Strobes are going to be your most expensive part – for 220-400 bucks you can get Alien Bees. Depending on how much studio space you have, you may not need all the watt/seconds. (view Mark Wallace of Adorama’s youtube videon on watt/seconds)You will also need a way to trigger the strobes. The maker of Alien Bees (paulcbuff) also make cybersyncs.. Which are pretty good. I used these guys; until I moved on to pocketwizards III.
And lastly you will need some light modifiers; umbrellas; softboxes; octoboxes; reflectors; beauty dishes; grids etc…
Not a bad way to spend some money.. Ultimately it comes down to how much you want to spend.
Tia: Cowboy studio. Check then out.
Daphne: NOOOO, don’t even bother buying a backdrop stand! I made mine out of PVC pipe! the tutorial I followed was so that my newborn nest would fit ..but i mean some tweaks you can get rid of the sides. but really..i built mine for 21 bucks! you can’t beat that!
Brian: Problem with the PVC stand is yes its cheap, but how quickly can you move it, how quickly set it up. If Tara wants to be able to take it to different client homes; I’m guessing she is also looking for portability.
Pamela: I am really impressed with my portable backdrop frame from Cowboy Studios. I also use material for the backdrops, although I have a few purchased backdrops also.
Tara: Thanks guys, this has been very helpful
Feel free to keep responding to this question using our comment section below.