i need help with lighting and backdrops

so my cousin offered to buy me some studio gear...but i dont want to go way over board with the prices...i dont really know alot about studio lighting...i was wondering what a good setup with out killing the pockets...im on the B&H but its so much stuff i dont know where to start

 

What are your needs? How big is the space where the equipment will be used?

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thats the problem i dont know what i need lol...i think a 10x13 drop is good enough...should i get another flash or use continuous lighting..im lost..i was looking at this on amazon

Amazon.com: CowboyStudio Photo Studio Continous Lighting kit, 10' X 13' Black & White Muslin Backdrops with Backdrop Support System: Camera & Photo

 

Have you looked for any web sites that have lighting tutorials?

 

Before buying you really need to figure out what you need. Start by figuring out what you will be using the lights for. If simple portraits, a couple of lights with umbrellas and a softbox will be fine.
If you are doing large family shoots or lighting up large items, you will need several lights, diffusers, umbrellas, gels, and rigging gear.
Backdrops fall into the same thing. Personally I love paper vs cloth and will use it when given the chance.

 

i just plan on doing simple portraits...nothing major right now...just something to get me started

 

im looking at some right now

 

How big is your studio space (what's the ceiling height) and if it has windows, how big are they and what direction do they face?

I use seamless paper too as backdrop material (no wrinkles).