Some money to buy some new equipment

[Shoal]

I am going to be getting a Canon 5D Mark II soon. When I do, will it take the same external flash as my Canon Rebel? Also I heard that it needs a new piece for the tripod and flash bracket as it has a different hole in the bottom. Is that so?

Also I would like to get some backdrops and a frame for them (portable). But in looking at them I see that they are usually tall and not very wide (for vertical shots only) or they are long for horizontal shots, but not tall enough for vertical shots. Is there a quality backdrop kit (frame and a few background sheets) that are good for both horizontal and vertical shots?

I mostly use natural light and a fill flash, but would it be worth investing in a softbox? I don't want to get into to many of the off camera flashes, reflectors and all the studio lighting and just yet. But thought maybe one softbox may help out for a portable setup. Is that a good idea?

 

[Robin Usagani]

My response

I am going to be getting a Canon 5D Mark II soon. When I do, will it take the same external flash as my Canon Rebel? Also I heard that it needs a new piece for the tripod and flash bracket as it has a different hole in the bottom. Is that so?
Pretty sure it uses the same thread as a rebel

Also I would like to get some backdrops and a frame for them (portable). But in looking at them I see that they are usually tall and not very wide (for vertical shots only) or they are long for horizontal shots, but not tall enough for vertical shots. Is there a quality backdrop kit (frame and a few background sheets) that are good for both horizontal and vertical shots?

The backdrop usually comes in a roll so you can put it as high as you want it. Most of the portable ones arent tall because well.. they are portable. You can use smaller background if you use longer focal lens. Does it really need to be portable? You can easily just buy curtain rod and hanger and put it as high as possible in your studio.

I mostly use natural light and a fill flash, but would it be worth investing in a softbox? I don't want to get into to many of the off camera flashes, reflectors and all the studio lighting and just yet. But thought maybe one softbox may help out for a portable setup. Is that a good idea?
Hmm.. this question doesnt make sense since you are asking about studio backdrop. Natural light is awesome with portable backdrops... but it is not a guarantee you will have awesome natural lights due to weather, size of the window, and the layout of the house. I would do a lot of off camera flash for sure unless the house has a huge window then I may consider go natural.

 

[Shoal]

Thanks Schwettylns! I am looking for a frame for backdrops as I work in various places and homes and don't always know what I'm getting into until I'm there.