How much to spend on a home studio set up?

[CarlukeDave]

I'm looking at setting up a small home/portable studio, really just for taking photographs of my son and friends and family.

I don't want to buy something too cheap, but I don't have a huge budget.

Having a browse on the net I came across this set up, is it worthwhile or rubbish, or somewhere in between?

http://www.backdropsource.co.uk/Pro...e-studio-flash-kit-with-all-accessories#thumb

Any information appreciated.

Dave

 

[Garry Edwards]

Am I allowed to say what I think or will it get me banned?

Maybe, just maybe, it's better than it looks and better than the specs suggest, but looking at other items they're selling I'm in no doubt that it isn't any kind of a bargain offer.

I don't recommend cheap lights, personally I think it's always better to spend more and get more, and if the budget doesn't allow too much to be spent then it's better to buy just good light and a reflector. Please see my guide to choosing studio lights.
If you do feel that an entry level kit is right for you, you might want to look at Stable Imaging. Much the same thing as your link but at a much better price.

 

[CarlukeDave]

Cheers Garry,

I'd much rather get an honest review, don't want to go spending money on something that's not going to last or cost me more in the long run.

I'll have a good read of your tutorial before making any decisions.

Dave

 

[EdBray]

http://www.backdropsource.co.uk/Pro...e-studio-flash-kit-with-all-accessories#thumb

Any information appreciated.

Dave

Wow!, I bought one of these lights from China on ebay with the barndoors/filters/honeycomb for about £45 including shipping and another with a softbox for a little more. I also bought a pair of stands for them from another seller for about £30 the pair including shipping. So all in about £130.

They are okay and will do a job, build quality isn't great and the variable power settings are not very accurate. Don't forget to budget for a flashmeter.

I second Gary's suggestion, and for a similar amount of money as they are asking for that kit there is a lot better available, but if you just want to have a play, buy them seperately from ebay for under £130, but expect to upgrade if you decide you like shooting with a lot of control.

 

[CarlukeDave]

Thanks Ed,

After a bit of browsing on the forum, I think the lencarta starter set would represent much better value for money. I'll give Garrys tutorial a thorough read and take it from there.

Cheers

Dave

 

[EdBray]

Good move, I only bought mine to use as additional lights with my Elinchroms, they are fine as an odd background light or hairlight, or for playing!