Event Flash

[mcwarrior]

As i'm mainly in to landscape images, this is totally out of my comfort zone.
Iv'e been volunteered to do a prom type event with the guests arriving.
I have 2 flashes and thats all both can be used off camera, with cheap ebay remotes, or 1 can be used with my Canon 60D wirelessly. its a ex450II.

This is not until Aug this year so plenty of time so source some gear if needed, would i be better getting soft boxes and stands for the flashes, or strobes.
If using flash, would i be better to upgrade the older flash, (its an old cobra flash, and its not getting on the camera) if so whats a cheap option, as i don't want to be spending to much on something that will not get much use.

Ill be taking a 2nd camera along as well. Canon 600D. Lenses will be 17-70 siggy's on both, one with OS. One 50mm f1.8, and maybe a 70-200mm f4 L, but i think that will be to long for where i will be.

Any advice on cheap gear that will in all honesty not get much us after the event, but you never say never.

 

[Little John]

What are you hoping to capture? red carpet type photos or photos with a background?

Red carpet is flash on camera normally where background will be studio lighting flash guns can work but making sure your batteries are always good to prevent misfires but studio lights just work better for that type of shoot.

 

[mcwarrior]

i would say as the guests are arriving, so a red carpet. Its a 30 year company anniversary, with about 400 people working there. Not all will be there as it open 24 hrs.

Was thinking of getting a softbox and stand to fire the flash through. and the other flash for background if needed.

 

[Little John]

If you have a background/media board then yes get your light source high and big but if its just red carpet stuff then no need for off camera flash, a flash bracket can help for portrait full length shots but dont buy the official canon one it just seems wrong the way it positions the flash below the lens.