Just starting out!

[JessicaBlair]

Hello, I'm just starting out in the Photography world...I currently have a Kodak Z812 IS...I have purchased a background stand and some backdrops, and two continuous lights. I plan on using my garage as the studio setup...We have lights on the ceilings. What are some suggestions for set up and positioning of the lights?? Thanks

 

[nickisonfire]

Strobist

 

[KmH]

Hello, I'm just starting out in the Photography world...I currently have a Kodak Z812 IS...I have purchased a background stand and some backdrops, and two continuous lights. I plan on using my garage as the studio setup...We have lights on the ceilings. What are some suggestions for set up and positioning of the lights?? Thanks

What are you wanting to make images of?
People?
Food?
Products?

I recommend this book.

 

[JessicaBlair]

I'm looking to do mostly indoor portraits for now..then eventually outdoor events and weddings...

 

[KmH]

I'm looking to do mostly indoor portraits for now..then eventually outdoor events and weddings...

You'll be moving the lights around depending on the pose, number of people in the shot, the lighting effect you're going for, Chiaroscuro, Rembrandt, Classical, Clamshell, etc. Placement of your lights will also depend on what light modifiers you're using and how much space your studio has.




A portrait studio set up usually consists of 5 lights:

1. Main (or Key) light
2. Fill light
3. Hair light
4. Kicker Light
5. Background light

Have a look at some basic info here.