Ebay Lighting Package

Joined: 14 Jan 2005 Posts: 7 Location: Sydney, Australia

Hello Guys,

I'm after a little advice. I've been trying to decide whether to pick up a cheap lighting package from ebay. The package consists of 2 x 110w strobes (which I understand will work as slaves), 2 x tripods, 2 x silver reflective umbrellas, and 2 x white reflective umbrellas. Total cost (including shipping is $319 including freight).

Does this sound like it would be an acceptable package to learn on (before looking into a "proper" package), or is it too low powered??

PS. at the moment the largest things I will be looking at taking photos of would be telescopes (work), and maybe portraits (personal).

Any advice would be much appreciated. (Also, if this has been covered, please supply a link).

Anthony.

Joined: 21 Aug 2006 Posts: 175 Location: Midwest

My first, and current light sets, were cheap and off of ebay, but I've learned so much from them and they have definitely gotten their value back to me (through sales). I actually highly recommend them to all beginners I meet. Total, with S&H, they're only about $320 too.

I'd definitely say go for it. Of course they are going to be somewhat cheap, but they will lead you up to better equipment.

The only thing I'd say is to make sure t the 110w strobe has a power adjuster for you to change the output. Also, why are there 4 umbrellas? And tripods? I'd like to see the link on ebay.

Have fun and learn from your mistakes.

Joined: 14 Jan 2005 Posts: 7 Location: Sydney, Australia

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=290167107606&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=019

Power is definately variable.

And, thanks for the advice.

Anthony.

Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 10:38 am

I saw those lights awhile back and asked the same question. The main response I invariably got was, "You're better off buying 1 good light and learning how to use it."

I took that advice and bought a decent 320 w/s light from Adorama that included an umbrella (shoot through and reflective), and a 10' light stand.

I haven't used it enough to warrant more light purchases yet, but I'm glad I went that route rather than cheap. I do want to add a softbox now, but that's another story.

Joined: 23 Mar 2006 Posts: 63

Try looking at a "Strobist" setup as well. This kit is $98, and all you need to add is two Speedlights. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/425220-REG/Impact_DFUMK_Digital_Flash_Umbrella_Mount.html

You can snag reasonable used speedlights on Adorama or B&H for~$100. Look for Nikon Sb24, 25, 26, or 28 units. There are also new Vivitar HV285 speedlights for ~$90.

Then get a set of radio triggers from eBay for $30 and you'll be cookin' with two lights, and quite mobile, for under $350.
http://www.gadgetinfinity.com/product.php?productid=16766&cat=274&page=1

Joined: 14 Jan 2005 Posts: 7 Location: Sydney, Australia

Just a thought then, would I be better off getting a 2nd SB-600, and use the D70's commander mode?

Joined: 21 Aug 2006 Posts: 175 Location: Midwest

So you already have a SB600? If so, I strongly recommend you get a lightstand, umbrella, and flash/umbrella holder. You can get all three for about $60 on ebay or just a bit more on Adorama (or less, I didn't check).

With that setup, you should be able to learn a lot, take a lot, and have a lot of fun. Notice the repetition of a lot?

Also, if you had extra money as to get another flash, I'd recommend the SB800 as you can us that as fill or primary (with some sort of diffuser).

I also agree with DrkRanger that learning with just one strobe helps a lot and worth the investment, but I'd just like to say sometimes it's more fun with two or more so you can test hairlight/backlight/etc.