I would like to create a small studio in which to photograph my model with my clothing - but i have no idea where to get a lighting kit from! I don't have much money to spend on one. Is there any way to 'make do' with some normal lights? Any idea how much it'll cost? Please help! Thankyou!
PhilUKNet
Favorite Answer
You could try using natural light plus some reflectors. That would probably be the cheapest way and if your set up is right the results should be pleasing. This isn't too easy to do with 'normal' lighting. When using lights, a lot of light is required at the exact time the shutter clicks. With normal continuous lighting it is going to get hot and it is likely that the colour temperature won't be quite right.
I use a budget Electra kit made by Ekasilp. Like you, I wanted to experiment with studio lighting without spending too much money. The basic kit I have includes two lights with diffusing umbrellas that can be used for key and fill lighting. There is also a smaller light to illuminate the background. The light is good quality and well-balanced.
The kit comes with all the light stands and absolutely everything you need to get started; even a carrying bag thus making it quite portable. The lights can be triggered using a synch-cord, your pop-up flash, a camera mounted flash, or a separately bought IR trigger.
The kit was very cheap (less than 8,000 Thai Baht) and I have been very pleased with it. The only problem you might have is availability and distribution, depending on where you live. The kits are made in Thailand, where I live, but they might be difficult to get hold of elsewhere.
However, the manufacturer claims 'Worldwide Distribution' so in theory you should be able to get hold of a kit.