Got a light?

[5nap5hot]

I am ready to buy some lighting equipment. I don't have anything right now, but want to get a basic setup that I can set up and shoot in my apartment with. I would appreciate very specific recommendations (brand/model).

Also what about background setups? What is good to use and stores well when not in use?

Thanks amigos

[tomrock]

Alien Bees are good for starting. Good selection of modifiers available and if you need to move up you can add White Lightnings and use the same modifiers. Search for Alien Bees in this forum.

[5nap5hot]

Are White Lightnings better quality? Price isn't toooo much of a problem. I would prefer not having to upgrade my stuff as I go along. I am big believer in buy-cheap means buy-twice.

What sort of output should I be looking at? Should I be getting all strobes or some continuous lighting?

[kgphoto]

You can't help but upgrading due to your ignorance.

WAIT A MINUTE! Read that again.

Ignorance doesn't mean stupid or dumb, just "not exposed to it yet." You don't know what you are going to be as a photographer, so you can't possibly know what you will need as far as lights, cameras and backgrounds, as an example. So buy some Alien Bees or White Lighting Ultras and experiment.

Find your vision and when what you have limits you, get what you need. Don't worry about changing your mind and getting upgrades. That is called paying your dues.

[jford]

Go to the main forum and read the sticky posting on "Lighting Equipment Suggestion"

Yes, new WLs are better than new ABs.