Study in Black

Digital Matt · Jan 9, 2006

Well, I have to admit, it's easier to "see what you are getting" with hot lights vs strobes, even with model lights. I really appreciate it when doing work with still life on a small scale, and I duly appreciate when working with people.

markc · Jan 9, 2006

Yeah, exactly. I don't know anyone who uses strobes for still life unless the subject is really heat sensitive. Strobes are sort of like big zooms: They're the sexy equipment that attract a lot of people, but they aren't a must-have unless you have specific reasons.

Corry · Jan 9, 2006

Wow Matt...you are really re-inspiring me to try to perfect my Menards clip on lighting set up! :lol:

I have had a hard time getting nice lighting with them. Heres a tip to help with them getting too hot: I have an extension cord that has one of those little 'on/off' wheel switches on it...I have them plugged into that, and I can easily shut them off if I am going to have an extended time between takes.

Digital Matt · Jan 9, 2006

Thanks Corry

I have my lights plugged into a power strip and I just trip the switch to turn them off. That helps, but I had them on constantly for an hour, photographing nonstop. They get hot, and so does the model

AIRIC · Jan 9, 2006

Excellent image.

Eric

AprilRamone · Jan 12, 2006

Did you use a reflector at all to help with any fill lighting? I like what you've done here. I also have been using hot lights in my little in-home studio and rather like them...but they get so hot I'm afraid to have little kids around them