Trish1978 Loc: Southeastern Ohio

I'm wanting to purchase studio lighting, but I have no idea where to start. I've looked at all these websites with full intention on purchasing lighting, but I get so overwhelmed. I'm not sure as to the type of lighting, the brand, how many... Ugh! Any helpful information is greatly appreciated. Also, does anyone know of a place that I can purchase studio equipment on location. I want to be able to see what I'm purchasing before I get a suprise delivered! lol I live in south eastern Ohio and I'm willing to travel at least a couple of hours away. Thanks!

snowbear

I'm not a studio rat, but you should probably mention your budget and how much space you have.

You could probably get by with a simple two-light setup to start - a couple of lamps (or strobes), stands, and umbrellas. Add a paper backdrop or two.

If you are looking for something portable, check out the strobist at http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/ if you haven't already seen it.

Trish1978 Loc: Southeastern Ohio

I have about 575 sq ft. of actual studio space. This is empty space. My storage and waiting room are all separate. My budget is about $1000 to $1200. This would need to include back drops and the rack to hang it on.

digicamking Loc: Raleigh, NC

If you can get to Columbus, Oh. go to Midwest Photo they are a good source and their personnel are knowledgeable and can help you with your lighting. They handle all types lighting and are very helpful.

bdangr Loc: N 41degrees 28", W 87degrees 18"

Don't buy new. Go to Columbus and Columbus Camera Group or Chick's or Midwest Photo up on High Street. Also, if you have Photorama Shows in your Area, that may be a possibility.

jackinkc Loc: Kansas City

My flash units Alien Bees from Paul Buff. Buff sells fine gear and superb accessories, all at a reasonable price. I found I needed at least three flash units with various reflectors and soft boxes. You can spend a lot more money but you can't buy better gear.

Trish1978 Loc: Southeastern Ohio

Thanks so much for your info. I most certainly can make it to C-bus. I go up there about every other month. I'll have to check it out.

myts10 Loc: SE Ohio

Hello Trish, I am about 6 months ahead of you in the studio type lighting area. A few things I have learned along the way, and mistakes. My backdrop was a kit from some outfit in California, cheapest I could find on Amazon. It came with a black and a green muslin and 4 clamps. You will have to get the wrinkles out of any back drop you buy, including a gray bed sheet which turned out to be the must used one I have. Diluted fabric softener in a spray bottle does works. A hand steamer from K-Mart works better for me.
The clamps are a must have, and you can never have too many. Get them at any discount store, I found a package of 6 for $3. Cheap but work.
I tend to make do with what I have, or can get by on the cheap. Found that you cant beat light stands for holding lights and will be getting more. Go with the package deal of 2 or 3 at a time, with a bag that stores them.
Another very useful item is foam sheets, 12x18, 89 cents each from Hobby Lobby, Walmart sometimes has them in black. They are used as flags. Clamp them to the light fixtures or stands to block light from where you don't want it. I also use black hair bands to hold them around a light fixture. Got them at the dollar store, package of 10 for $1.
This is stuff you will want no matter what kind of lighting you go with, strop or continuous. Hope I have helped and good luck to you.

jackinkc Loc: Kansas City

I love the diluted spray suggestion.