Shooting models

[nsteezyy]

Hey guys! Been awhile since I posted. I finally decided to start shooting models. I have never done a shoot with a model so its kind of a new thing.
I just wanted to know what equipment to use? I am thinking of picking up an AlienBee, but I still am not sure which one to get.
Also, I needed opinions and best lenses for portrait shooting or models, budget is around 100-400.

Thanks!

 

[Trever1t]

I'd recommend you start shooting outdoors before you start spending $ on lighting that you obviously don't have the experience yet for...but I use AB800s and a roomful of supporting gear. My simple studio, and I stress simple is in the $3K range? I started with speedlights. Cheap and sufficient for starters.

Just saw your budget...you cannot afford a studio yet.

 

[runnah]

My mobile studio cost roughly $2k and that is bare bones.

Sb800
36" soft box
5-1 reflector
8x10 gray backdrop
Optional pocket wizards
3 light stands
Various brackets and clamps.

This really only is good for waist up shots, I mainly use it for headshot.

 

[Tiller]

I don't think it's impossible. Not ideal, but not impossible for a simple setup.

-Yongnuo yn-565 or 568: $170
-Light stands and umbrella. This is where you can find a good deal. You can find a set for $50 if you're patient.
- umbrella swivel: $15
-basic backdrop - $50

You really need 2 speed lights, but for getting started, this is what I would do.

 

[nsteezyy]

I'd recommend you start shooting outdoors before you start spending $ on lighting that you obviously don't have the experience yet for...but I use AB800s and a roomful of supporting gear. My simple studio, and I stress simple is in the $3K range? I started with speedlights. Cheap and sufficient for starters.

Just saw your budget...you cannot afford a studio yet.

Yeah, I am going to shoot outdoors, but the only problem is lighting and finding the perfect spot. What do you think about a Nifty-fifty 1.4 or a 1.8?

My mobile studio cost roughly $2k and that is bare bones.

Sb800
36" soft box
5-1 reflector
8x10 gray backdrop
Optional pocket wizards
3 light stands
Various brackets and clamps.

This really only is good for waist up shots, I mainly use it for headshot.

Damn, I probably will build my way up!

Thanks for your guys' responses.

 

[Tiller]

Outdoors? Ok, take out the backdrop. Nifty fifty is ok to start with. I would go with the 85 1.8 for outdoors.

 

[runnah]

You really need 2 speed lights, but for getting started, this is what I would do.

Lies! One is more then enough.

 

[Tiller]

Lies! One is more then enough.

Well most people like one light for the subject an one for the backdrop. Since he'll be shooting outdoors, you're totally right!

 

[runnah]

Well most people like one light for the subject an one for the backdrop. Since he'll be shooting outdoors, you're totally right!

Naw I shoot medium gray and that casts a light enough reflection to make the subject stand out.

 

[nsteezyy]

Outdoors? Ok, take out the backdrop. Nifty fifty is ok to start with. I would go with the 85 1.8 for outdoors.

How much do backdrops usually run for? I will most likey get the 50 1.4 or both.

You really need 2 speed lights, but for getting started, this is what I would do.

Lies! One is more then enough.

Dang, sadly i sold my 430 EX II like a few weeks ago ):

 

[runnah]

How much do backdrops usually run for? I will most likey get the 50 1.4 or both.

Dang, sadly i sold my 430 EX II like a few weeks ago ):

I paid close to $200 for mine. It's a poly blend rather than muslin so it travels easier and requires less cleaning and ironing.

 

[Trever1t]

I usually use 4 lights, one main, one fill, 2 rim/hair or background...I need one more light!

As far as shooting outdoors, just remember to meter for your subject and care less about getting the background exposure perfect. It takes a little practice but I prefer shooting outdoors to studio x1000. Studio is just so boring but it is easier to have half dressed naked models posing.

 

[Derrel]

>SNIP>
-Light stands and umbrella. This is where you can find a good deal. You can find a set for $50 if you're patient.
- umbrella swivel: $15
-basic backdrop - $50

You really need 2 speed lights, but for getting started, this is what I would do.

I just rec'd a catalog today from Adorama, their new "Bring On Spring" circular, and noticed they have a FLashpoint umbrella kit with two 6.5 foot light stands, two 33"inch umbrellas with removable black backing fabric, and two swivel mounts; total cost? $49.95. Item # LTOU

A lot of people will tell you that you need 10-foot stands or 8, or 9, or even 13 foot stands...which I think is an overstatement. In many of today's rooms, a 6.5 foot stand + a 40 inch umbrella is as high as one can go!!! On seated or reclining poses, a 6.5 foot stand is PLENTY tall.

You need some low-rent lenses. And a camera. And some models.

 

[Tiller]

I just rec'd a catalog today from Adorama, their new "Bring On Spring" circular, and noticed they have a FLashpoint umbrella kit with two 6.5 foot light stands, two 33"inch umbrellas with removable black backing fabric, and two swivel mounts; total cost? $49.95. Item # LTOU

A lot of people will tell you that you need 10-foot stands or 8, or 9, or even 13 foot stands...which I think is an overstatement. In many of today's rooms, a 6.5 foot stand + a 40 inch umbrella is as high as one can go!!! On seated or reclining poses, a 6.5 foot stand is PLENTY tall.

You need some low-rent lenses. And a camera. And some models.

Wow, nice deal. Ill think about that myself.

 

[nsteezyy]

Thanks everyone again, for all the replies and suggestions.
Thats a great deal for the umbrellas and two stands, but i cant afford two more strobes ):
What do you guys think about a 24-105?