If you're new to strobes, buying a couple of speedlights and modifiers can be a cheap but effective way to learn the ins and outs of artificial lighting. This awesome video will show you how to create classic studio portraits using just speedlights.
Coming to you from Daniel Norton, this excellent video will show you how he creates a classic studio portrait using just speedlights. While he's using a set of Profoto A1s, I recommend grabbing a set of Yongnuo Speedlite YN600EX-RT II speedlights and a YN-E3-RT transmitter. They're much, much cheaper, especially when you're first starting out, and the nice thing about a studio is that you don't have to overpower the sun. Nonetheless, those specific Yongnuo speedlights are pretty powerful, and because they're so cheap, they make for a great first wireless flash kit, and your wallet won't take a huge hit if you tip one over somewhere. Also notice that you can easily carve out your own background projection in your spare time. It's a great way to dip your toes into the world of artificial lighting and create some high-quality portraits. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
I stopped using big strobes for studio work ages. I used to have a full speedlight kit for on location then strobes for in studio and eventually realized the extra speed offered by the faster recycle time of big strobe simply wasn't worth having to own and maintain two full kits. I rarely am blasting away fast enough that I'd even notice the difference and I never am in situations when in studio that the extra output is needed.
Particularly true with the new lithium battery powered speedlights. I do however like my strobes and have been slowly moving away from speedlights - but they are handy to have in the kit.
If I would start over it'd be with Godox.
I've been travelling with my Elinchrom RX-One setup without problems tho, it's pretty compact. But being dependante on power outlets is a bit of a hassle.
And that's why I have a couple of Godox AD200's :-). Mobile, lots of power and lots of battery life. I also carry a couple of Godox V850 (hair light, rim light or background light) and I am set to do practically any job I am asked to do.
With two cameras and two lenses, I have it all fitting In one carry-on bag.
It's really nice what you can get with a couple of cheap speedlight nowadays, compared to the hefty price ten years ago. I would also like to recall that Daniel is one of the best teachers I've seen. Very humble yet knowledgeable every time.
Yes,I am fan of Yongnuo. Still use the 602's and the 603's. I use couple of Canon 540EZ on manual mode with my Nikon cameras. Very cheap way of using speedlites
You guys act like these techniques are brand new. We did this back in the 1970s with Vivitar 283s. Also, come on, write something original for a change instead of just posting links to other's work.