My first flash kit! Help please!

sam_justice · Oct 8, 2010

Picking up my first flash kit, got an SB800 already. Am getting a westcott softbox (umbrella fit) with a lightstand, umbrella bracket, coldshoe.

Now baring in mind I don't have much money at all to spend on this, what's the best way to get my D90 and SB800 to communicate? I don't have enough for wireless transmitters. I don't mind a lead as long as it's long enough (5-10metres).

ajkramer87 · Oct 8, 2010

Commander mode?

kundalini · Oct 8, 2010

ajkramer87 said:
Commander mode?

Twice even. At no cost.

Read your manual.

sam_justice · Oct 8, 2010

How well does this work if I'm planning to take this kit outside and to use on various shoots?

e.g taking it down to a beach for a sunset shoot (cliche I know but I need to get the basics down).

sam_justice · Oct 8, 2010

and also using it in commander mode gives me another flash source that I don't want.

kundalini · Oct 8, 2010

It will work well enough. At least until it doesn't.

Your working distance will likely be shortened in bright, sunny conditions. However, there are some work-arounds. Like, I was able to trigger two flashes behind me while in the open shade by fashioning some aluminum foil to the built-in flash.

All-in-all, the CLS is a decent into to OCF right out of the box. With practice, you'll find out yourself where it leaves you wanting more.

Blake.Oney · Oct 8, 2010

I would get some if the ebay triggers. There are a couple that people swear by.

sam_justice · Oct 8, 2010

Blake.Oney said:
I would get some if the ebay triggers. There are a couple that people swear by.

That's what I'm after, can you name any?

cajunbandmom · Oct 8, 2010

try looking up cowboy studio I just got some and SO FAR they work very well.

sam_justice · Oct 8, 2010

cajunbandmom said:
try looking up cowboy studio I just got some and SO FAR they work very well.

Thanks for that, just bought some cheap ones of a similar brand!

Jon0807 · Oct 9, 2010

some fairly "cheap" wireless triggers here
AlienBees - CyberSync System

sam_justice · Oct 9, 2010

Jon0807 said:
some fairly "cheap" wireless triggers here
AlienBees - CyberSync System

I ordered some £20 ($35-40) ones for now, see how they do!

Also, for anyone interested, I couldn't get ahold of a westcott umbrella softbox due to stock. So I've gone with one of these after reading the reviews, seems really popular. And for the price it's greaaatt!
Steve Kaeser Photographic and Video Lighting