Hi all,
I've been chatting with Phil about flash, so I'd thought I'd share my booksmarks in case it helps others:
http://www.pinterest.com/imageobjectif/learning-flash-strobes-and-ttl/
Below is my journey into flash, hopefully the links will be of use to others (and might save you a bit of cash too)
1. Phil Steele - I made a rash purchase two years ago, the videos really helped me decide what to buy and how to set up the kit etc. After about two views from start to finish, I've not returned to them since. An excellent place to start.
http://www.steeletraining.com/
2. Din Giannatti - A favourite go-to resource just prior to a photoshoot. I've watched the first videos numerous times, although he does tend to go on a bit when sharing his processing videos. An excellent place to start, but don't bother with his other courses.
https://www.udemy.com/portrait-photography-with-simple-gear/#question/16545
3. Complete boudoir lighting guide - buy this! I would say this ebook was fundamental to changing my view on where to place a softbox or umbrella. If only I was brave enough to actually shoot a boudoir!
http://www.exposureguide.com/a-complete-guide-to-boudoir-lighting-ebook.htm
4. Simple SLR portrait lighting - I bought these with a Black Friday Deal, initially I had buyers remorse, but after going through his practical examples for finding exposure (natural light only) I appreciated his approach more. The flash section explains how to read the distance guide on your flash, but I wouldn't recommend buying his books as the information is out there for free.
http://www.simpleslr.info/
5. Slightly creepy - but the videos are my 'go to' place to remind myself what I need to do! The videos are short and illuminating (pun intended).
http://smokingstrobes.com/
6. I use this approach in all my sessions to quickly change the exposure on the flash (manual) without fiddling with the flash gun on the top of a tall stand!
http://neilvn.com/tangents/using-light-meter-manual-flash-ambient-light/
7. I use this approach as my first step to tweaking my flash:
http://strobist.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/how-to-easily-fine-tune-your-flash.html
8. Recently I bought a demp-flip it and put all of the above techniques together for this session
LINK
http://www.dembflashproducts.com/flipit/
I've also smashed a SB900 and it's been an expensive journey - good luck!
Mandy