Hi everyone! I have just bought my first entry-level DSLR camera in December and want to get into portrait photography (eventually making my way to fashion & editorial shoots). I have the camera body itself (Canon Rebel T5i), the kit lens (but I will be purchasing Canon's 50mm prime soon), a large 5-in-1 reflector, a white backdrop, a tripod, and a wireless shutter release. I also used to do makeup and have a ring light from when would light my makeup photos. It is okay, but provides very flat lighting for portrait photography. So my question is, what would you guys suggest I start with in terms of COST EFFECTIVE lighting options for portrait photography? I was thinking a Speedlight (probably Yongnuo 560 III) & a softbox, but I've also seen actual portrait "kits" sold by brands. Would a speedlight be a good place to begin? Or does anyone have other suggestions on affordable lighting for a beginner. Thank you!
You can do a lot with a speedlight and an umbrella (plus your reflector and other gear), that'd be a very cheap place to start. I use Yongnuo speedlights mostly for background or additional lighting since I moved up to an Alien Bee as my main most of the time, but the Yongnuos can make fine main lights as well.
It's not going to get more cost effective than umbrellas, and you'll find out what you like or don't like about them once you start using them :).
Thank you Jordan!
check out the yn600rt from yongnuo too. small price bump but it will save u when u need off camera lighting
I'd agree with starting with a speedlight or two. They're very cost effective and it will give you some good practice with lighting Shoot as much as you can, look at other people's work and study it deeply. When you think you've got it down, then make the jump into the pricier gear. The great thing about the speedlights is that you'll also be able to use battery power (albeit mild power) and have a run-and-gun setup for outdoor/environmental work. Umbrellas are the cheapest way to go, but you can also get softboxes for speedlights on Ebay that are pretty cheap ($40 US) and can give you some awesome light. I got one from Meking, and I still use it for outdoor strobist work.
I've picked up some inexpensive monolights (Interfit is popular where I live), but some speedlights would be just as cost-effective, although not as powerful. What I can suggest, more than anything, is that you get umbrellas with fiberglass ribs. Those little folding Westcott umbrellas that are so compact should be treated as disposables, since the ribs bend and break when you look at them.
I bought an AB but i've used another friend's interfit's and enjoyed em! Plus they've got high speed sync (or at least whatever setup he rigged up did)
I'll hugely vouch for the Yongnuo stuff. Their flashes and radio triggers have never failed me, and they even fire faster than Canon's speedlites. That, and a cheap 32" softbox!
I use the Yonguno 622n's and I agree they have no let me down especially in terms of distance and speed.