AboutScott Valentine Expertise Most anything about digital post processing (Photoshop, etc), effects, and image restoration, some technical information about digital imaging systems, light and electron microscopy, optical physics and image analysis. I can help with shooting basics, lighting setups, and getting the most out of your digital camera. I am also an 'expert' here for Photoshop (Computers/Technology > Software > Graphics Software > Photoshop).
I am currently writing a book for Adobe Press on composite artwork using Photoshop CS4.
Experience I've been an image analyst and advanced amateur photographer for over 6 years. I run an Adobe user group, focusing on digital media, and have lectured on digital image capture systems. Currently, I am an administrator for a rather large instructional Photoshop forum
Organizations Adobe User Groups, National Association of Photoshop Professionals, Advanced Imaging Specialists
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Physics, University of California, San Diego
Awards and Honors Winner: Best in Show and several category first place awards - Imaging Professionals of the Southwest Print Competition (multiple years)
Expert: Scott Valentine Date: 3/24/2007 Subject: Studio lighting
Question Hi Scott
I would like to set up a studio for children portraiture in my home
and have couple of questions:
1.What is better Flash lighting or continuous lighting?
I know the difference between them and the advantages and disadvantages,
What I don't know is which one is better for a home based studio
(I am just a beginner and don't have much experience with lighting)
What would you choose?
2. I have a low budget, can you tell me what do you think is the most
essential equipment to start with?
I appreciate your time and any tips
Michelle
Answer Hi Michelle,
Quite a bit will simply be a matter of preference and finances. Personally, I feel direct lighting is easier to get right, and easier to set up to look natural. However, I feel flashes will give you more flexibility and less heat. If you are careful in choosing your flashes, you can also build a nicely portable studio. If you can, try renting some different kinds of systems and see what feels best to you.
As for most essential equipment (after the camera body and lenses), I'd start with some inexpensive 'hot' lights for fill and flood. You don't have to purchase type-specific lights, but keep an eye out for bargains, especially in used equipment shops and estate sales. These will give you a way to judge your lighting angles without having to fire off flashes constantly. They can also be used as work lights, provided you are using standard bulbs instead of more expensive balanced bulbs.
Next, invest in a great tripod, one that is built for what you plan to shoot. You can spend a few thousand on some studio tripods that mount to ceiling rails, but I prefer using an articulating tripod with a quick adjust head. For smaller lenses, you can use a trigger grip, but heavy lenses will require a solid ball-head mount.
Back to lighting, start with a good flash that is built for your camera, then add slave units. These can be inexpensive peanut flashes that have no adjustable features and use optical sensors to fire off, all the way up to intelligent systems from companies like Nikon and Canon. These later types can be programmed in groups, but come with a fairly high price tag. Fortunately, most of them are wireless in some fashion, or can be fitted with wireless units easily.
Other considerations are your set pieces and backdrops. Stay away from buying purpose-built equipment unless you find an outstandingly low price. Virtually everything can be built or purchased for a lot less than a pro shop will charge. Sheets, butcher paper, vellum and car shades are cheap and available, and can accomplish much the same tasks. You can also build up a large collection by being patient and keeping an eye out for props wherever you go. Fabric clearance sales, junk shops, and hobby stores are excellent resources.
Besides, I like making my own stuff now and then!
Since it sounds like you are becoming more serious about your shooting, also spend some time looking into workflow solutions - backups, storage, and production software will probably pay for themselves very quickly in peace of mind. There are many articles and even some books on productive workflow. Find a few and put together a system that works for you, and gives your images some security from loss.
If you have any further questions, or would like more details, please feel free to ask.
