Was that supposed to be a feeble attempt at a joke?

I'm sorry but I don't understand how to setup the lights. If I'm using Manual Speedlites like the Yongnuo 560 II the only settings are Zoom and Power. I will use these in slave mode with the Canon 7D. Apologies for my ignorance but I'm attempting to learn here and thanks for the time it takes to write these responses.

Thanks rpavich. So would 2 Flash stands with brollies inverted be sufficient? What kind of settings would you apply to the 560 if the subjects are 5-8 ft in front of the Photographer?

Thank you all for your responses. JR1 a very insightful read and I may well be giving you a call Sir.

How well do flashgun setups work? I recently purchased a pair of Photosel Continuous Softboxes for a clothing shoot I was asked to do. I was very disappointed with the power being emitted and am now thinking of returning it.

So, how well does a Flash setup work and I'm assuming by your responses that Flashguns are the way to go for portable setups (especially as i'm starting out and don't want to invest a packet!) I have a Yongnuo 560 II Manual Speedlite which seems to work well, so thought i'd order a couple more of them for my Canon 7D. Any thoughts?

Thanks in anticipation, once again.

Dear All,

I've been asked to take photos at a Black Tie Award Ceremony in about a weeks time. Whilst I've got experience taking photos at events, the organisers would like me to setup a backdrop and take photos to sell them to attendees later. Whilst I'm comfortable going around taking candid shots, I've never done anything like this before, so any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. I have a basic backdrop stand which is just under two metres width. My immediate questions are, what colour backdrop should I use? ( I have black and white) what would be an adequate lighting setup? Any other tips or info would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks in advance,

Shuja.