a simple set up

[scoped]

hi there,
ok, i've been using my camera a bit, and i can just about feel what i need, to add more interest and improve my shots.

really i've just been learning how to use my camera (a 60d with a 18-85mm currently) and i'm getting to grips with how iso, shutter speed and aperture all come together.

so my next step i feel (apart from perhaps adding to my lens collection which currently consists of one XD )

is to get an off camera flash-
so i can vary up my shots a bit and learn first hand the effects of lighting on photography.

So really, from what i can see is i need a flash, an umbrella, a stand and grips, and a reflector depending on what i want to do.

is this an 'acceptable' set up to try and throw light in interesting and dramatic ways?

if so, are there any specific flashes i should be looking at, or anything else i should add to the above?

thanks,

andy

 

[Danzaroonie]

Hi Andy,

Have a look at this site Adorama http://www.adorama.com/alc/category/AdoramaTV. I used them to give me a kick start into flash photography.


Dan.

 

[BalSanghera]

Great link I could sit and watch their videos all day

 

[HoppyUK]

hi there,
ok, i've been using my camera a bit, and i can just about feel what i need, to add more interest and improve my shots.

really i've just been learning how to use my camera (a 60d with a 18-85mm currently) and i'm getting to grips with how iso, shutter speed and aperture all come together.

so my next step i feel (apart from perhaps adding to my lens collection which currently consists of one XD )

is to get an off camera flash-
so i can vary up my shots a bit and learn first hand the effects of lighting on photography.

So really, from what i can see is i need a flash, an umbrella, a stand and grips, and a reflector depending on what i want to do.

is this an 'acceptable' set up to try and throw light in interesting and dramatic ways?

if so, are there any specific flashes i should be looking at, or anything else i should add to the above?

thanks,

andy

Sounds good A flash, when used properly, will make a huge difference to your photography.

The brolly and stuff is great for portraits, but all you really need is a decent gun to do loads of other stuff. Get one that does high speed sync, as you'll find that very useful, eg 430EXII. Maybe think about an E-TTL extension cord and a set of RF-602 radio triggers to help off-camera, but the 60D will master remote slave guns.

Start with it on-camera, and point it anywhere except at the subject. Bounce it and diffuse it and use a bounce card etc etc. Then take it off-camera, using the 60D as master trigger. I'd also recommend getting Syl Arena's excellent book, the Speedliter's Handbook.