Another newbie...

[Ches]

Hi to all-
68 year old retired carpenter attempting 2nd career in photography- shot first wedding for distant family member in May- great time,and some pretty good images, too. Inspired to do more. Now thinking about what I need to do in-home portraits as far as lighting goes- obviously budget is issue- so, any suggestions?
Do I need 110 volt studio lighting stuff? what about reflectors, backdrop material?
Tell me what to do, guys!
standing by...
Ches

 

[Big Mike]

Welcome to the forum.

As you said, budget is obviously an issue....so for us to give you any suggestions, we need to know what is in your ballpark.

 

[Ches]

Hi, Mike
I appreciate your response;
ok, "budget"-
you probably saw that I have a D300 and as SB800 flash, and Gary Fong's light dome. I have read that my flash is more than adequate to do head/torse shots inside, but I am seeing more evidence that additional light sources give you more options, plus getting the flash off the camera helps. So, I am looking at soft boxes, umbrellas,and backdrop material. Without a specific dollar amount to spend, can you guide me to what type of equipment to buy? is a soft box better than an umbrella? what about homemade backdrop material?Should I buy a second flash? To give you a ballpark, let's say I can FIND $250 for this project- play with that. I am more interested in the WHY of what to buy than the particular equipment itself.
Looking forward to getting some seasoned advice!
Ches