Flash Equipment

[LiveStrong2009]

Now that I have a decent handle on my DSLR, I think I am ready to start working with lighting.

At this point, I am a bit clueless as far as the lighting equipment goes. Clearly a flash is the most common, but I would really like to know more about external flashes, remotes, reflectors, things of that nature.

If you can explain how to shop for a flash, that would be very handy.

I suppose my use for it is very important, portraits are one of the things I would use it for (mostly outdoors), I also love photographing abandoned buildings (typically dark), and sometimes cars and motorcycles. I have little to no interest in studio photography.

I spoke with a fellow photographer about this, and he urged me to go with a vivitar flash, or two, because they are still good quality...they simply do not have the CANON name on them.

Please give me some guidance.

 

[meccalli]

The Canon name really has nothing to do with flash. Besides, you want to be shooting in manual mode not ttl or e ttl or any of those through the lens metering things. So dont be worried about compatibility. Yes a vivitar 285 Hv is a great flash that can be used for pretty much all you need to do with a few modifiers. If not that you definitely want a nikon flash or an Lp160 from lumpro. When it comes to choosing flash, your better off taking recommendations and looking at those only. Theres a lot of crappy flashes that you just don't want. You'd probably also want a light stand and a wescott umbrella to start off as well as some ebay triggers. That'll get you through hell and high water until you begin to shoot in helicopters and want pocket wizards .

 

[LiveStrong2009]

At this point, I really need to learn how everything works before I even start shopping I guess. I need to determine the items that I will need, what they do, how they work, how they connect etc...

If somebody has a link to a good intro to flashes or something like that...

 

[mrmacedonian]

Lighting 101

This will definitely get you started