STUDIO LIGHTING

[Bubbles22]

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the comments...Okay maybe I'll go with the umbrella to start. You all know more than I do. I just want to make sure I don't get all those shadows that I have seen on some "Professional" sites. I do love my SB-800 so far so I will just have to build off that!

 

[Big Mike]

I just want to make sure I don't get all those shadows that I have seen on some "Professional" sites.

That likely isn't a result of using an umbrella vs a softbox etc. It will have much more to do with overall lighting sets ups...which is to say, the photographer's knowledge & skill with lighting.
Try to get away from the idea of 'this gear will get me that result'...and keep in mind that it's all about what you know/understand and how creative you can be with the gear that you have variable.

 

[KmH]

Shadows, done properly, are good. Shadows and posing can be used both to flatter desireable facial and body features, to diminish un-desireable facial and body features, to create interest, drama, a strong sense of depth and reveal a person in a unique way.

No shadows is FLAT and BORING.