Reddit mentions: The best photographic lighting umbrellas

You are welcome! You aren't doing anything wrong mate, I think gaining huge amount of subscribers is mostly about exposure and people's preference. Your channel has many stuffs that can help people who are intermediate/pre-advanced level players but it doesn't have as much subscribers as it should have despite of having been on YouTube for a long time whereas I have seen a decent/mediocre at best player who doesn't upload tutorial stuffs as much as you do has more than 20K followers, as I have stated earlier it is about exposure and preference of the users.

I don't actively run any YouTube channel but what I've reckoned so far, I would suggest you to upload at least one cover of famous metal/hard rock song/solo in every two-three week/one month (assuming you will be learning it from the beginning but with your skill, it won't be too hard for you to master difficult songs/solos) alongside your licks/lesson videos, in this way your channel hopefully will get some exposure.

Collaboration works with other instrument players/guitarists on YouTube will also help I think, get a bit more exposure and then do some collaboration sessions with famous YouTube guitarists (e.g. Chris Zoupa or 331Erock) which should give you even more exposure.

I think people tend to watch videos that look decent, good looking and professional these days. My last advice would be investing a bit to make your videos look better. So upgrade to a decent camera which can film 1080p video that looks sharp (I heard some cameras that are mainly used for photography can also film decent quality video which aren't damn expensive as some video cameras), make sure there is enough lighting in the room where you will film your videos (perhaps you may want to get entry level softbox/umbrella lighting kit if your room lighting is not bright enough), a bit of video editing skill will be also helpful (you don't have to learn to use Adobe Premiere, software like Movie Studio 13 or if you want to spend more then Sony Vegas Pro should get your job done) and last but not least capture your audio with a decent mic via audio interface instead of using camera's mic.

Edit: Few sentences.

Edit 2: I think I should revise some of the advice I have given you in terms of making your videos look better.

• Previously I have stated that you should get a better camera that will let you make videos that look sharper than your current setup, but the thing is lighting should be your primary priority at this moment because I have noticed that in your videos there is a bit too much of shadow and the video also looks kind of dark, I think you should set up better lighting arrangement for your upcoming videos. Perhaps you should grab [this] (https://www.amazon.com/StudioPRO-Translucent-Umbrella-Continuous-Photography/dp/B00FG5FQ5S/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1469975990&sr=8-2&keywords=umbrella+kit) if you can't have more lights in your room to brighten up your video.
  Even with a camera that can film only 720p video, you will get very good result if your lighting setup is excellent, you can add filters in your video during edit if you want. So you don't have to change your camera for now but if you insist then assuming you will be filming yourself alone, I'd recommend you getting a video camera that has flip out screen, DSLR cameras can get you good results but not all of them come come with a flip out screen. You might want to take a look at Canon VIXIA HF R700.
  
  
• It seems you already have some good video editing skill but I would recommend you to make your video thumbnails modern looking because many of your current ones look bit cheesy.
  
  
• By capturing your audio via audio interface what I meant is, not only capturing your voice with an audio interface card but you should record your guitar track with it too (also capturing your guitar's dry signal with applying effects from great amp simulation program for desktop such as Bias FX or AmpliTube 4 will make your guitar sound even better) if you haven't been using it already.
  
  Please don't mind because of my criticisms, you asked for some advice and I thought I could help with some tips, you are a good guitar player who uploads tutorial videos on YouTube and I want you to be known among users like some other YouTube guitarists such as Ben Eller, Carl Brown or Chris Zoupa who aren't just awesome players themselves but they also help other players out there.

Yeah, the amazon kits, for the most part, are just junk, and the stuff you do really want is bad quality. It's substantially better to get stuff as you get more experience.

For a camera, I definitely think that you are good with a t6i or t7i. I agree with the other poster to make sure that you get an "i" because they have the swivel screen that makes life so much easier. After a quick check, you could get this referbed t6i for about $500 which is not bad. Don't worry about it coming with a kit lens, sometimes those lenses can be useful, and for the most part, since it is an "amateur" camera, they are hard to find body only. So you should be good there.

I'm not entirely sure what the "tutorial" mode is, but really do read up on the exposure triangle. It's not super difficult (there are TONS of great graphics that help explain it), and it will make your photos/videos SO much better because you will be in control, and more aware of the capabilities and limitations of your camera than if you shoot in a mode that's not manual.

Also a few quick notes about filming with DSLRs that you aren't going to see if you just look at photography sources. One, try your darnest to always shoot ISO 100 when filming. Bumping the ISO in pictures is fine because the grain is either not recognizable or is easy to remove in photos, but it is SUPER noticeable and hard to remove in video. This is because the grain changes every frame, effectively animating it. The other thing is that if you shoot higher than 60 fps, you might end up wanting to add motion blur or something because the video might look a little odd. On the contrary, for photos you'll probably want to shoot more like 200 so that handshake doesn't introduce motion blur.

The other thing that is SUPER IMPORTANT for video and just like "nice to have" for photos is a good memory card that has a high write speed. This is the one that I personally use. If the memory card doesn't have a high write speed, then your camera will just stop recording because the write speed of the memory card can't keep up with the data coming from the camera.

Also, side note, there are tons of articles that will say that canons can't shoot more than 12 minutes of video at a time because it exceeds the 4gb file size (which it can't go past due to stupid copyright laws. I don't get it either). This isn't entirely true. All the canons that I have dealt with (everything from a t3i to 70D) record fine past the 12 minute mark, just when they get done recording it will split it into 4gb files. Only one canon have I ever seen ALWAYS shut done at the 12 minute mark no matter what, so I suspect it was just broken. However, even with my own trusted camera that I have never had problems recording more than 12 minutes has recently stopped at about 30mins (my guess had to do write speeds), so just always be aware.

As far as lighting kits go, this one is pretty good for a beginer. Most people do a basic 3 point lighting which is probably fine enough for what you want to do. So with that in mind, and since you want to do green screen, you might want to get 2 of those kits. The key to doing green screen is to have a really well- and evenly- lit screen. TBH you really don't need to get a green screen kit unless you just want to. All it really is, is just a large piece of fabric anchored in such a way so that there are no wrinkles. Of course, the kits are nicer, but you may want to see if you can DIY that part.

As for a tripod, this one is probably fine for what you want to do. Just keep in mind that if you continue to do more in video/photography you will probably need to get a better one later on. I personally have one like this that I use like as a back-up, so they aren't a complete waste of money.

Hopefully this helps! If you have any more questions feel free to ask!

> a better one for portrait photography.

For starters, portrait photography isn't about the camera as much as it is about the lenses and the lighting. Also, using good lenses on a mediocre body will get you far better results than using mediocre lenses on a good body. A D7500 is a better camera than a D3200, but the D3200 is probably not a major bottleneck to opening up opportunities in portraiture unless she already has good lenses and good lighting gear.

Questions:

• What lenses does she currently have?
  
• What lighting gear does she currently have?
  
• Is there something about the D3200 that is problematic? Does a D7500 solve it?
  
• What is your budget for this girlfriend gift?
  
  Let's assume that she has a D3200 with the 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. It'll do, but you can get better lenses for portraiture than that. My ideal kit for that camera (or for a D7500) would be two lenses: Sigma 18-35 f/1.8 ($500 used) and the Sigma 50-100 f/1.8 ($600-700 used). (With third-party lenses, make sure to get the Nikon version, of course!) These are two of the best possible lenses you can get for a D3200, D5xxx, D7xxx, especially the latter, which is a zoom lens specifically designed for portraiture, as it covers all the classic portrait focal lengths.
  
  If you want something on more of a budget, but still excellent for portraiture, get her a Nikon 50mm f/1.8 AF-S ($150 used) and/or an 85mm f/1.8 AF-S ($350 used). These fixed-focal length lenses have great image quality, and between the two of those they'll cover pretty much all portrait needs. However, a high-quality zoom (with a fixed f/1.8 or f/2.8 aperture) is going to be a lot more versatile. If you can't get the 50-100 f/1.8 above, I'd get her a Sigma 50-150 f/2.8 lens. The newer "OS" 50-150 f/2.8 is wickedly sharp wide open at f/2.8 like the 50-100 f/1.8 is at f/1.8, it's great for portraits (covers all the classic focal lengths and then some), and it sells for only $400-450 or so used. The older non-OS 50-150 f/2.8 version is nice and sharp from f/4 on but only sells for $200 used, really quite a bargain but not as good as the OS model.
  
  If she already has good lenses, the next thing to get (or maybe at the same time) is a bit of lighting gear. You can go bananas on lighting gear, but a good basic kit is a flash, a flash controller, a light stand, and an umbrella. Nikon has a great infrared wireless flash system that works well with the D3200 or any other modern DSLR, and used flashes and gear are cheap. Get her a flash that's compatible with her camera like a Nikon SB-600 ($50-75), SB-700 (~$100), SB-800 ($75-125), or SB-910 ($250-300, skip the SB-900). Then, get a Nikon SU-800 flash controller ($75-100 used), which goes on the camera, plus a light stand and a big umbrella kit. You may want to get some rechargeable AA batteries as well.

You've gotten some good advice here, but there are some basics you may be missing.

> I used a Canon DSLR for one sketch and the quality was cool and all but the audio was awful...

That's because these camera generally have noisy preamplifiers and automatic gain control (and because you probably used the camera's internal microphone). Those are the three worst things that can happen to your soundtrack. You can fix them by buying a camera with better preamps, and/or using manual gain control and/or by getting an external mic and putting it on a boom closer to your subject/talent.

> ...it did a cool thing where something was in focus and things in the background were sort of blurry but I don't know if that's something all cameras do or a special feature...

That was because DSLRs have relatively large sensors (much larger than your cell phone). There is a complex optical explanation for this, but, suffice it to say, the larger the sensor, the easier it is to get the "blurry background" effect - also called "shallow depth of field" or "shallow DOF".

All of that said, you can put a nice little studio together with a $1000 budget:

Camera and Support

• [Panasonic G7 - $597.99] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0106BG35S/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0106BG35S&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)
  
  
• [Amazon Basics Video Tripod w Fluid Head - $74.99] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CEH7VG8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00CEH7VG8&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) - I own the Ravelli AVTP Professional - which has the same fluid head as this tripod - and it pans and tilts very smoothly
  
  Sound
  
  
• [Rode VideoMic Studio Boom Kit - $199] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ISKJJ5Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00ISKJJ5Q&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) ([Here] (http://wistia.com/library/choosing-a-microphone) is why you need a boom)
  
  Studio Lighting and Backdrop:
  
  
• [LimoStudio 3 light continuous lighting kit - $49.50] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005FHZ2SI&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)
  
  For background, you might want to consider green photographic paper instead of stands, crossbars and unwieldy sheets of muslin, as seen in [this video from Wistia] (http://wistia.com/learning/diy-office-video-studio):
  
  
• [Savage 9' x 36' background paper for chromakey - $66.80] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000B782NO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000B782NO&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)
  
  
• [Duck Tape - chromakey green - $4.99] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002TOL43M/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002TOL43M&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)
  
  For less than $1000, you'll be able to produce well-lit 4K content with decent sound and a stable image with smooth pans and tilts.
  
  You will also have a basic chromakey studio with which to add special effects.
  
  Here are some examples of what this camera can do:
  
  Narrative
  
  
• [Stars] (https://vimeo.com/137538379)
  
  Documentary
  
  
• [Fotograf Anna Ejemo] (https://vimeo.com/141640603)
  
  
• [Indianapolis 500 in 4K] (http://vimeo.com/130565657)
  
  Travel/Nature
  
  
• [Bahamas] (https://vimeo.com/136657243)
  
  
• [Away From The City ~ Panasonic G7 [4K] 42.5mm F1.7] (http://vimeo.com/132028570)
  
  Timelapse
  
  
• [Clouds Time-lapse] (https://vimeo.com/139023972)
  
  Timelapse and Slow Motion
  
  
• [Oostende Koerse 2015] (https://vimeo.com/138394549) (shot with its big brother, the Panasonic GH4)
  
  And here are a few examples from YouTube (please watch at 2160p and your monitor's highest resolution):
  
  
• [Voigtlander Nokton 10.5mm F0.95 Lens - Examples on a Panasonic G7 [4K]] (https://youtu.be/zLIc0n9K8Pk)
  
  
• [LUMIX DMC-G7 Sample Video in 4K by Colin Witherill] (https://youtu.be/fZllpp_y8Is)
  
  
• [Panasonic Lumix G7 / G70 Launch - 4K - 4KPhoto Modes] (http://vimeo.com/128536456) (shot in photo/video mode - each frame is an 8MP still photo)
  
  It's a pretty good still camera too: https://www.flickr.com/groups/panasonic-lumix-g7/pool/
  
  In my view, this is the best still/video, large sensor interchangeable lens camera you can buy below $1000 and a very good value for your money.
  
  Hope this is helpful, good luck with your skits and best of the holidays!
  
  

Hey! Always great to see more new MTG youtubers. The game can always use more. First, a few questions, what program do you use to edit? What do you use to record your audio and video? What kind of computer do you have?

Ok, a few tips I’ve learned is if you’re gonna be mainly talking to the camera you gotta have great audio and it needs to be recorded separately from your cameras mic. I would suggest this lab mic as a starter. It’s cheapest and can record right to a smart phone.

BOYA BY-M1 Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone for Canon Nikon Sony DSLR Camcorder Audio Recorders iPhone 6 5S 5 4S 4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NHN168W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_jdKYBb701AGWS

Lighting helps make videos look so much better and less washed out. I couple of light behind the camera pointed at you never hurts. I’ve had these for 3 years and they still work great.

LimoStudio 700W Photography Softbox Light Lighting Kit Photo Equipment Soft Studio Light Softbox 24"X24", AGG814 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E4YS2XU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_3eKYBbM38FJ0N

I don’t personalky have these but my friend does they they seem to work for her and are cheaper
Fancierstudio lighting Kit (DK2) Umbrella Lighting Kit, Professional Lighting for Studio Photography, Portrait Lighting, continuous lighting kit and Video Lighting https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TSCARK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fgKYBb2GV6BFZ

If you have some sort of social media presence (twitter, Facebook, tumblr), mention it at the end of the videos. It’s a good way to get your videos out there and seen more.

An intro and outro title sequence are always nice. They’re not necessary but add a little something to make the videos feel more professional. Plus, you just have to make them once and can tack them to every video.

Make thumbnails for your videos. Use something like Fotor to just add text of the title of your video to a screenshot of the video. Most people watch YouTube on their phone and just see the thumbnails. So it’s good to have informative ones.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to edit your videos. It might feel jumpy and choppy but most people are use to it. Or be like me and do many takes till you get it close enough. I usually do one take to get it all out and find my flow then try again. I find scripts work for some people but a lot of the times come off stilted. An outline of points to hit might be a happy medium.

Anyway, if you have any questions you want to ask me go ahead. I’m not a seasoned pro or anything but I’d love to help.

I have a canon t3i, budget is $400 and am upgrading my tech for beauty videos. I need new lights, focus remote control, new battery, sd card, 2 lenses. Zoom and wide.

I know this is a photo thread but hear me out and share input.

UPDATE:
I never specified that I'm focusing on video. I guess I assumed it was self explanatory with the info I went on to ask about pertaining to video.

Q's:

How much film time will this sd give me? Google says 2 hours, but maybe someone here knows better.
https://www.amazon.com/SCT-Digital-Ultimate-Extreme-S-F32-RT/dp/B007XVPI4C/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1518712664&sr=1-4&keywords=canon+t3i+sd+card

Are these lights worth it?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O9RH4HM/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3VAHM8ODBLF0H&psc=1

I currently have these https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-LimoStudio/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_sc_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1518712989&sr=1-2-spell&keywords=limo+studip+lights

They heat up and take up too much space in my little square room and dont light enough or evenly even with my ring light in front of me.

What zoom and wide lens can I use, to zoom into face sitting 4+ feet away from tripod. I currently have the canon 50mm lens.

What wide lens can I buy? My kit lens is still too close to me even zoomed out.

Budget friendly lenses for my crop sensor.

What my videos look like now, I need to update, get a nice bokeh when zoomed into face, even lighting, and nice wide shot to use for intro and outro of videos.

https://youtu.be/TlbrPApdIyE

Any other tips on saving money, improving my videos, etc, I'm open to learning. Thank you.

I would really like to have a nice blurry background like here for intros and outros

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Dd_MQf6-dY&list=PLv8BKE_eGqqosNUuj2eDCh4Ynsh6M1HwD&index=2

Get yourself a box resizer and a good razor knife. Sometimes a half an ounce or less can make the difference between $5 shipping and $7+, and you will also save packaging material by not having to stuff half of a box with packing paper or bubble wrap.

Box Resizer tool On Amazon $16.99 - Free Shipping

DONT BUY BUBBLE WRAP LOCALLY AT THE STORE. GET IT ON AMAZON.

I almost never pay more than $27 for 700ft of bubblewrap. I used to spend more than that on 250ft when I was buying it at Lowe's or Staples.

Bubblewrap on Amazon for $25.88 with free shipping

Keep an eye out for something like this at thrift stores, you can find them ALL THE TIME, usually for around $5 - $7, and they are GREAT for mounting your rolls of bubble wrap on to save space and make dispensing it easy.

Clothes rack with bar

For taking photos, I use something like this setup. I place the backdrop stand behind a dresser and drape the fabric backdrop over the top of it and tuck it into my top drawer for a seamless background that I can also lean items against since it's tucked in.

Backdrop + Stand Kit $36.90 on Amazon. Free Shipping

Photography Lighting Kit $52.10 On Amazon - Free Shipping

I'm guessing filming on a webcam. C920 by Logitech or something in that vein?

Around the 36 second mark your voice doesn't sync up with your lips for a few seconds when you turn to Mime Jr.

Yikes, 1:18 the audio clip! My ears. Maybe it's just me but the clipping audio jokes are never funny. I have crazy sensitive ears.

So, we finally get into the meat of the video by 1:18 of a 14:08 video. I'm a big, big proponent of having your introduction tight. This is where your audience will decide to keep watching or immediately click away, leaving your audience retention rate plummeting. You don't have enough views for an adequate sample size, but I can say that personally I'd have clicked away.

I don't have as much time to spare nowadays to be patient on content. The quicker, the punchier, the video, the more it will keep me watching. I want the meat of the video, NOW, not later. Not a bad segment introduction for Triple Play either, very retro and it fits the concept well.

We're getting a ton of light refraction off your glasses, as well as some direct cast shadows behind you on your shelf. You can definitely tell where the light is coming from. If I might make a recommendation, if you're going with this setup you need to get some diffusers and some cross lighting to your sides to filter out those shadows and prevent that kind of direct refraction on your glasses, if you choose to wear them.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018KE5XUO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the set I use. It's cheap and effective for my purposes, which is mainly light up my shots. I don't wear glasses during my live action shots though. I don't have enough lights to diffuse to the sides (removing my cast shadows) or the front enough to light up my face. I have one single light up front, which still gives me a glare. If you don't understand this concept let me know. I'm in my office right now and can record a brief video giving a mild tutorial on how my lights are setup and how they impact my live action shot.

There's a big imbalance in your live shot audio and your narration audio when you break into the video. Your narration is actually really pleasant, the live action shot wasn't. The equipment you have at your disposal needs to strengthen your presentation and you need to work with that in mind. Your strength is going to come in your presentation on the non-live action parts, so break into this quicker.

If you want to do live action shots, you're going to need the lighting and some work on how to frame your shots. While I appreciate that you've setup in front of a bunch of games/game consoles and a shelf full of pretty stuff to look at, the live action shot (ignoring the points I referenced above) aren't very nice to look at. We have a frame that's split in half; a top blue wall with nothing up top and a lot of dead space, and the bottom half that's filled to the brim with tons of colors. Your frame also looks slightly askew too.

As I'm watching the video your narration is still out of sync with your live action shots of your voice. Again, I want to click away. I really, really want to click away. These live action shots aren't good, man, I'm sorry. I want you back to the in game narration ASAP.

This is where I just couldn't keep it together anymore. I clicked away. The screaming, audio clipping and the joke setup about motion controls just wasn't funny. Some younger views might get a kick out of it, but I'm definitely not the person who would enjoy this.

Overall there's some good stuff here to build on, but a lot of bad stuff detracting from it. Sorry for taking so long to respond to you, I fell asleep.

1. You don't even have to get a full-on camcorder. I mostly use the vid feature in our point-and-shoot (Canon SD1000 Elph) and get great results... And pretty much any cheap Canon or Fuji is going to be better than your phone.
   
   
2. I actually prefer to shoot during the day, but our bedroom is located in the back where we can keep the windows wide open. We do hotel shots this way too. I just like the natural lighting better. Night shots with only indoor lighting can be tricky, especially if you don't want everything either in shadows or yellow-tone. You could provide your own photo lamp for cheap...provided your gf doesn't mind the "studio" feel vs. you just filming your sex...lol.
   
   
3. I wouldn't worry too much about a backdrop unless you want to hide some clutter/family photos/whatever. My suggestion there is to just go to a fabric store and get something mostly plain, big enough for what you need, and....get creative how you hang it. I've used push pins in the ceiling, small clips to hold it up, etc...
   
   
4. Just be relaxed about it without too much "directing" unless/until she's comfortable with it.
   
   When you do get another camera (or video), use both and you can edit them together pretty easily. I like having the video camera set wide, and the hand held for the POV/closeups, etc.
   
   Get your gf involved. Ask what she wants to do. Let her hold the camera for different perspectives.
   
   AND HAVE FUN!

That's pretty limited space for a green screen, but two simple umbrella lamps (at about 45-60' angles L & R) would probably suffice. If you have the space and can put one on either side of your computer table, that would probably work. You can get them fairly cheaply on Amazon.

Something like this (just an example): http://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462284480&sr=8-1&keywords=umbrella+studio+light

A top light can be very helpful, but it's more difficult to pull off in the average home environment. A ceiling lamp should suffice. A small back-light is nice too, and some studio lighting kits come with them. Might not be realistic with 1-2' behind you though.

There are lots of professional lighting tip videos on youtube, etc. I only have one lamp (umbrella-type) in use on my streaming setup at the moment, but I learned a lot about professional studio lighting just from watching videos. Good luck!

Edit: If you would like to see what one lamp looks like in a typical home environment, go ahead and spend 30 seconds on one of my VODs. What you'll see is:

1 x run of the mill umbrella studio light with a somewhat expensive 1950 lumen 6000K daylight bulb (LED) - placement is about a meter to my front-right, at about 45'.

1 x normal ceiling lamp w/ 2 x 13w soft-white bulbs (LED) - located about 4 feet rear-right at about 45'.

My lighting solution is acceptable IMO, but is in no way "professional" (my space restrictions make a full lighting solution impossible). However, you can see what even a single light diffusing umbrella with a very good bulb can do to help.

Hey, I've been shooting some of the cassettes with /u/killallmusic above. Heres some tips. First, as others have said, OFF CAMERA FLASH IS ESSENTIAL. That goes for any product photography. By far, the best bang for you buck is the Yongnuo IV and the wireless trigger to make it sync here. They are fully manual so no TTL (which is a feature of more expensive flashes that auto set the flash output to the available light) but I'm a big fan of learning strobe photography with manual flashes. You'll get way better way faster and there are a MILLION places online to read flash tutorials to get you started and plenty of video guides to get these flashes synced with the controller. On top of that, another absolutely essential part is some sort of diffuser. Softboxes are most often recommended. I use the following with my shots. These are both very nice pieces of gear and you can definitely find cheaper options that will do just fine on eBay and Amazon. You can get away with 1 for sure but I usually end up using two sources, one for a key light and one for a fill to add texture back to the shadows. As for actually shooting cassettes, your biggest problem will be glare. Any light hitting at a 45 degree angle to your lens will cause a flare so just adjust your angle of the tape or flash until you get rid of the glare. Last tip, when it comes to light, the closer a source is, the softer the light will be. That might sound backwards but its true. So get that flash all up in its business as close as you can to the product. Check out the Strobist blog for an amazing flash primer course. Trial and error is the name of the game. You can see some examples at http://killallmusic.storenvy.com. The Coutoux and Jay Pray tapes were shot with the exact gear and method I listed above. Happy shooting!

I agree about the background, but it was my only option since my house is so dark! It's funny because just this morning I ordered this kit:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm pretty excited about it. I feel like I can't get much detail from my pics, and figured getting a solid background would improve things tons, as well as less distracting. Plus i can't for the life of me get a good pic of a solid black or white garment outside.

I use my galaxy s4. I know other sellers use their cell phones as well, and I personally don't intend to change that. I don't feel like getting a nice expensive camera isn't in the cards for me at the moment. Plus it's super convenient for me to use my phone.

Hi /u/griel1o1 - it's taken me several years and a lot of trial and error - but I have put together a little studio that works. Using what I've learned, you can put together a complete production studio for less than $1000. Here is what I recommend [Referral Links]:

CAMERA:

• [Panasonic DMC-G6 camera with kit lens - $710] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=201073493366&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg). This is the best value for money large sensor, interchangeable lens camera with a video-capable viewfinder, hours of continuous recording and a mic jack below $1000. Links below the equipment list show what this camera can do. DSLRs such as the Canon T2i/T3i/T4i/T5i have viewfinders that go blank when you switch to video mode (blocked by the mirror, which is useless for filmmaking). This forces you to use the LCD for composition and focus - which can be a chalenge outdoors, where the LCD can be washed out by bright sunlight. Many Canon shooters buy expensive LCD viewfinders or Electronic Viewfinders (EVFs) to shoot outdoors. The G6, on the other hand, has a built-in EVF - so outdoor shooting is not a problem.
  
  DSLRs are also limited to 12-30 minutes of continuous recording before they have to be restarted. The G6 can record for hours continuously, without interruption. This can be very helpful for long interviews and speeches.
  
  This camera is also compatible with power zoom lenses, when you can afford them. There are no affordable power zoom lenses for low-end Canon DSLRs.
  
  SUPPORT:
  
  
• [Ravelli AVTP Professional Tripod - $130] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00139W0XM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00139W0XM&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20). I own this tripod, and it is professional quality, with a 75mm bowl - which allows you to level the camera without adjusting the legs. A huge time saver.
  
  AUDIO:
  
  
• [2 Rode Smart Lavs to plug into iPhones - $120] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=181244511796&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg) With the [free Rode Rec LE App] (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/r-de-rec-le/id590021166?mt=8), you can plug these mics into iPhones, sync the audio tracks in the editing suite, and have a pro quality recording solution without buying an external recorder.
  
  
• [SmartLav to camera adapter - $17] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L6C8PNU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00L6C8PNU&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20). For shots where you need to plug one of the lavs directly into the camera.
  
  LIGHTING:
  
  
• [LimoStudio 3 point Umbrella Lighting Kit - $50] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005FHZ2SI&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)
  
  TOTAL STUDIO COST:
  
  $1027
  
  Here is the image quality this camera can produce:
  
  Documentary:
  
  http://vimeo.com/97274302
  
  http://vimeo.com/73561266
  
  http://vimeo.com/87978429
  
  http://vimeo.com/78507820
  
  Narrative:
  
  http://vimeo.com/78037118
  
  http://vimeo.com/81339712
  
  Music Video:
  
  http://vimeo.com/88584840
  
  http://vimeo.com/84436275
  
  Slow Motion/Sport:
  
  http://vimeo.com/76503135
  
  Travel Video:
  
  http://vimeo.com/88543042
  
  http://vimeo.com/86145944 (shot with a power zoom lens)
  
  Compared to the $3000 Canon 5D Mark III: http://vimeo.com/82318903
  
  There are many more examples on the Panasonic G6 channel I moderate over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/dmcg6
  
  It's a pretty good still camera too:
  
  https://www.flickr.com/groups/lumix-g6/pool/
  
  https://www.flickr.com/groups/2217639@N20/
  
  Hope this is helpful and saves you some time and money!
  
  Bill
  

Trying to set up to take photographs of my watercolor paintings to produce digital copies that I can make prints from. I am open to buying stuff if I need to, but if possible would like to use what I already have. My main concerns are accurate colors, even lighting and of course a sharp image without distortion. Will be editing in Adobe Photoshop. I am by no means a good photographer, but I am a bit familiar with manual settings. Both my brother and dad were into photography at some point, so I have access to some gear.

I have:

Nikon D7100

50mm f/1.8 and a 50mm f/1.4 G

35mm f/1.8 G

85mm f/3.5 G ED macro

4 tripods

3500K light bulbs

A wall to attach paintings to


My current plan is to use the 50mm f/1.4 lens on a tripod about 3ft away from the wall - or at a distance where the painting fills most of the viewfinder. I put two 3500k lights on tripods and will have one on both sides ideally at a 45 degree angle (or less?). Will be shooting raw and at iso 100 - that's about the extent of my plan but I am trying to do more research for the best set up.

My questions are: Would some sort of color balance or grey card help? I am not exactly familiar with how something like this works but I've seen them mentioned in a few places online - it seems expensive but accurate colors is important to me.

Should I get something to diffuse the lights? I am almost just considering getting something like this if that would be sufficient.

Any critique of my plan or other tips on photographing artwork would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

This is all in reference to part 3:

Two minor complaints about the commentary, and I've been guilty of it myself for sure, is that you kept going back to a sort of introduction as far as four minutes into the video. "We just woke up in a strange room" and variations of it were repeated a few times.

There are a few times where it seems like you're not sure what to say, so you basically narrate what you're doing/what the game told you do, but not much else. This can work for more animated people, but you're fairly calm so it's not terribly engaging in those moments. I didn't have any issues keeping with it, but I know several people with shorter attention spans that likely would have left the video around those points.

The full minute of outro was a bit long without anything happening/captivating commentary.

The end card itself, though has clear navigation and certainly doesn't take away from anything. I like it.

Humor is a bit dry, but that's not really a complaint as I happen to like dry humor.

Audio and video quality are really good, though you might want to consider finding a way to soften the overhead light source so it creates less of a focused glare (soft boxes are cheap and easy to make.) I recently purchased this set of lighting from Amazon for a really good price, but it does take a bit of room to set it up. Not much, but a little more than some people have.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FG5FQ5S?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Thank you! This photo was taken in natural light, but I also have these umbrella lamps , which honestly changed my world since I don’t have to stress about daylight anymore. For food, you generally want to light from one side to best highlight texture and to keep things from going flat. I position one lamp to the side of my food, and the second lamp on the same side but angled slightly behind the food. Then I position a reflector opposite the lamps to help brighten shadows. You’ll need to play a bit to see what works best for different foods and set-ups (I find white-on-white desserts the most challenging), but that’s the gist of it.

I’m a former art director so also adore post-processing. My favorite program is a Photoshop plugin called Topaz Labs. If you use their filters with a very light touch, they can really bring a ton of life back into photos.

For lighting, I use 2 Elinchrom monolight strobes. I also have a Nikon SB900 Speedlight, which I have used on occasion. (The last series in the fashion section was lit with it and the sun, exclusively.)

In terms of modifiers, I tend to use one light with a small (10°) grid on it, and key with a large softlighter... which is basically an umbrella with a softbox "cover" stretched over it: http://www.amazon.com/Photek-Softlighter-II-Umbrella-Diffuser/dp/B0002HTK7A

I have a pretty minimal kit, which allows me to travel fast and light. (I don't think a single portrait on my site took longer than an hour to come in, find a spot, set up, shoot, and break everything back down.)

Financially, things are going OK. My wife is a freelancer too, and she's working. I've been doing some freelance assisting and digital tech'ing when I am not working on my book. For a while, I was the in-house shooter for a national sports chain. They offered me a full time position but I turned it down. It was pretty mind-numbing.

At the four month point, I can tell you that unless you are super connected, super gifted at marketing yourself, and super talented, you should probably have a source of supplemental income.

The market right now is pretty bad. One of the photographers that I tech for netted over $200k in 2008. In 2009, he netted less than $100k - all because of the economic downturn. Things seem to be getting better, but it's still slow.

Hi all! I'm looking to make an entry into speedlight photography. On one of my threads a few months ago, the overwhelming consensus was to buy 3rd party flashes. There were a few recommendations given, but as it was some time ago, I'd like to know what is currently the best recommendations for 3rd party speedlights. I'm starting from scratch with regards to lighting equipment, so I'll need flashes, stands, transmitters/receivers etc. I'm looking to spend around £100, if possible.

Would this be a good deal? - https://www.amazon.co.uk/NEEWER-4-Color-Display-High-Speed-Speedlite/dp/B011BJXWOY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503048783&sr=8-1&keywords=Neewer%2BNW985&th=1

I also hear good things about Yongnuo. Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

EDIT: and what about this, in terms of stands and umbrellas? https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neewer-Speedlight-Umbrella-600EX-RT-Youngnuo/dp/B01ABFSAPU/ref=wl_mb_wl_huc_mrai_1_dp

Unanswered question from the previous megathread

Author /u/caterix - (Permalink)

Hi all! I'm looking to make an entry into speedlight photography. On one of my threads a few months ago, the overwhelming consensus was to buy 3rd party flashes. There were a few recommendations given, but as it was some time ago, I'd like to know what is currently the best recommendations for 3rd party speedlights. I'm starting from scratch with regards to lighting equipment, so I'll need flashes, stands, transmitters/receivers etc. I'm looking to spend around £100, if possible.

Would this be a good deal? - https://www.amazon.co.uk/NEEWER-4-Color-Display-High-Speed-Speedlite/dp/B011BJXWOY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503048783&sr=8-1&keywords=Neewer%2BNW985&th=1

I also hear good things about Yongnuo. Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

EDIT: and what about this, in terms of stands and umbrellas? https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neewer-Speedlight-Umbrella-600EX-RT-Youngnuo/dp/B01ABFSAPU/ref=wl_mb_wl_huc_mrai_1_dp

I would suggest that you try it yourself if you have a DSLR (maybe even try it with your smartphone camera if you don't have a DSLR). It takes time, but it can save a lot of money. Unless you go to somewhere like Fiverr, even the cheapest photographers you will find IRL will charge hundreds. Seriously professional ones like to charge thousands. Here's an outline if you're interested:

1. Firstly, get a white backdrop of some kind. When you white out the background in post, you want your reflections on the product to match.
   
2. It's important to use manual settings with product photography; otherwise, you will get unnecessarily noisy images (your auto mode on your DSLR expects you to be shooting handheld, not on a tripod, so it uses a relatively fast shutter speed and thus high ISO and low f/stop). Set your aperture to something like f11 to f18, ISO 100, and adjust shutter speed to expose slightly brighter than your metering tells you to.
   
3. Then white out your photos in Photoshop or, if you don't want to invest in Photoshop, something like Affinity Photo works just as well. Remember to up the contrast by using levels after you're done.
   
4. If you want to take it up a notch, then you're going to need to focus more on getting the lighting right. I recommend getting at least three light stands with color-balanced light bulbs, around 5500 K. There are combos on Amazon that could give you everything you need. (not an affiliate link)
   
   If you're not interesting in going DIY for this because you don't have a camera or the time, DM me; I've been doing product photography for about 4 years and Photoshop for 8. I have a Fiverr listing you may be interested in, but I won't link to here since I know the subreddit rules. If you're not interested, no worries.
   
   Product Photography is a huge category on Fiverr, I suggest you look around. If it's not an extremely valuable one-of-a-kind item for Etsy or something, then it makes sense to bet about $10 + the price of your item, instead of immediately going to a full-fledged product photographer and spending hundreds.

I am interested in learning to take better indoor portraits. I am willing to buy some gear, but cost is a factor as I do not know how I'll take to it, or how much I will use it.

The equipment I have available is:

• Nikon D750
  
• f/4 24-120 kit lens (so at least I can hit that 85mm - 105mm spot. I also have the 70-300 but I can't imagine it would be better.
  
• 2x Nikon SB-600 strobes, which can be commanded remotely by the camera body
  
• A couple of half-assed craft foam diffusers
  
  As far as I can tell right now the biggest problem I have is with the quality of light. The homemade diffusers that I have are a great improvement over naked flash, but they simply don't make big, soft light.
  
  It's my hope that I can find a couple of inexpensive softboxes and stands to improve my lighting, and hopefully someone may have recommendations there. I saw this on another thread, for example: http://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-Off-Camera-Umbrella-Umbrellas-Shoemount/dp/B008S1W19Q/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1384792982&sr=8-8&keywords=flash+umbrella
  
  I am willing to get a 3rd strobe which seems like it would be awfully useful for removing shadows from the backdrop, but I don't know if it is necessary.
  
  Bottom line... Decent camera, passable lens, 2 serviceable strobes... what else do I need to get to shoot a decent indoor portrait on a budget?
  

I haven't tried regular vanity lighting but this set from amazon is awesome for videos and makeup application. They are pretty cheap in comparison to other similar lighting. My friend has them and I recommended to a other redditor who loves them too! Hope this helps!

Do you have any examples of a "great portable light"?. Are you talking about a full time light? a strobe? a Flash?

At this point, not really being a portrait photographer, I'm leaning towards spending a little less for gear as long as its reliable. I don't need anything that's fancy. For a flash, I think I'm mostly looking for something that can give me manual control and Master/Slave options for later... Not sure what else I "need". (Do I need TTL? will I want it in the future? Manual mode is great when you can setup shots, but will I want TTL for outdoor fills?)

Reality is, I simply can't spend $150 on a light alone at this point.


What would be the big downsides to say something like a Yongnuo YN-560 II? for $70. How does it compare to say a LumoPro LP160 which is twice the price. Both of which do not have TTL (correct?).

Then adding a simple Stand/Umbrella setup for ~30-40/ea. I know the quality here will be less than "par", but as long as the locks hold tight and I can weigh it down with a bag, I should be good... (not being heavy enough is a concern though, as I plan on using it outdoors... but then again, I'd be caring them around so I don't want things to heavy). Looking at these... CowboyStudio Single Setup, ePhoto (two stand setup), Thoughts?

As for a wireless flash system to invest in, This I could see putting some money into as It would be expanded upon later down the road. But I don't expect to be getting some ridiculous system either. Some of the cheaper wireless flash triggers didn't lock onto the stand, which means the flash isn't secure either... That steered me away from those, so I'm still looking. I was looking at Yongnuo RF-603 until I noticed that.

My debate at the moment is, do I need TTL, or simply Manual control? I played with a friends Canon 550EX (II I think) last night, and ended up sticking to manual mode the entire time... Granted, that was in a controlled situation and I was able to play around with the flash settings. I could see where the TTL would be great for getting the right fill in an outdoor shot.

Ahhhh!!..... (haha)

Did some research, here's I think my bargain basement lighting kit, and good reviews too.

• $50 Neewer flash with wireless trigger. a nice manual flash that comes with a wireless trigger. You put one trigger on the flash, and the other in your camera's flash shoe, and bam, radio triggered flash.
  
• Neewer stand/shoe/umbrella kit for $33. It comes with three umbrellas.
  
• Rechargeable batteries for your flash. I've had good luck with my Energizers, and they are cheap at $13 for a charger + 4 AA's. I'd buy two of them because the cheapest price on a 4 pack is $11, so why not spend the extra $2 for the charger to have a backup charger.
  
  There, you're good to go for wireless flash for ~$100, manual flash power, works with any camera that has a flash shoe.
  
  If you can only spend $50, then just get the flash separately for $30 and the batteries. Then you can get the radio triggers, light stand, and umbrellas later when you have the money to spare.
  
  Also, eventually, you may want to get a larger umbrella - I use an Impact 60" convertible umbrella. Big, beautiful, soft light. I have two of these; they have 4.5 stars on amazon, great umbrella. They are a little unwieldy though; 60" is a big umbrella to deal with.

For a starter set, I went with yongnuo speed lights and cheap stands and umbrellas from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015ZALVI4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1453912336&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=yongnuo+560+iv&dpPl=1&dpID=51z85GnO1DL&ref=plSrch

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005FHZ2SI/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1453912456&sr=8-3&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=light+stands+for+photography&dpPl=1&dpID=51fq2%2ByrrcL&ref=plSrch

I bought the flash and trigger separate but since found this deal for two speed lights and the trigger, saves you a few bucks. They are quite good for the price. Keep in mind they are manual flashes

Also, there is a "frequently bought together" suggestion with the speed lights. You'll need the hot shoe adaptor to put onto the stands if you plan to do it that way. The little diffusers are helpful when I don't have an umbrella and can't bounce the flash off a wall or ceiling.

The stands are pretty cheap. But for the price I can't complain. The only real issue I have is if you are outside you will probably need something to hold them down as they are pretty light.

Hope that helps get you started.

I started with a similar cheap kit to this: http://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI?ie=UTF8&keywords=light%20kit&qid=1462400627&ref_=sr_1_3&sr=8-3

I still use it to this day from time to time although with softboxes. Anything from cowboystudio (or similar names that en with studio, limostudio, fancystudio) will do fine for starting. They are cheap made but I grew my kit from there. Changed the bulbs for more powerful ones. Put a 1 bulb to 4 bulb adapter. Bought a couple led panels, better stands etc.

Buy one or two 5 in 1 reflectors with c stands and clips.

If you want a better kit (your budget seems to allow it) I would get individual lights and build a kit. I'm a big fan of led. I always shoot raw so as long as my lights have the same color temps I'm usually fine.

Hope that helps.

Thank you for submitting to /r/SmallYTChannel. You have spent 3λ to submit here, making your current balance 0λ.
/u/darthjazno, please comment !givelambda to the most helpful advice you are given. You
will be rewarded 1λ if you do so. For more information, read the FAQ.

Video data:

Field|Data

-|:-
Title|How I Start an Abstract Portrait in Acrylic - Sketching Techniques on Canvas
Thumbnail|Link
Views|5
Length|22:31
Likes/Dislikes|2/0
Comments|2
Description|Shelly sketches the faces in preparation of acrylic painting her subjects' caricature like portraits. Watch her detailed demonstration on her technique that she uses on her abstract portraits prior to acrylic painting.⤶⤶⤶*****⤶Check out our Amazon recommendations on Kit!⤶⤶▶ Check out our recommendations on Kit: https://kit.com/LifeCreatesArt⤶⤶Links provide a small commission & will allow us to continue content like this!⤶⤶**⤶Equipment we use for our videos:⤶Lights⤶Photography Photo Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit by LimoStudio, LMS103⤶https://amzn.to/2KiN7zs (affiliate)⤶⤶Microphones⤶For Interviews!⤶Lavalier Lapel Microphone 2-Pack Complete Set - Omnidirectional Mic for Desktop PC Computer, Mac, Smartphone, iPhone, GoPro, DSLR, Camcorder for Podcast, Youtube, Vlogging, and DJs⤶https://amzn.to/31jgwiD (affiliate)⤶BOYA BY-M1 3.5mm Electret Condenser Microphone with 1/4" adapter for Smartphones iPhone DSLR Cameras PC⤶https://amzn.to/2GMXo4K (affiliate)⤶⤶Camera⤶Canon PowerShot SX730 Digital Camera w/40x Optical Zoom⤶https://amzn.to/31lORh6 (affiliate)⤶⤶https://amzn.to/31kl5ZXLife Creates Art⤶⤶https://www.youtube.com/c/LifeCreatesArt⤶Website: https://life-creates-art.business.site/⤶Facebook @artlifebyshelly⤶Twitter @creates_art⤶Instagram instagram.com/shellyslifecreatesart⤶⤶Attribution⤶Stock images provided by pixabay.com

##Channel Data:

Field|Data

-|:-
Name|Life Creates Art
Thumbnail|Link
Subscribers|374
Videos|44
Views|23810



^/u/SmallYTChannelBot ^made ^by ^/u/jwnskanzkwk. ^PM ^for ^bug ^reports. ^For ^more ^information, ^read ^the ^FAQ.

I use my phone. I've had a couple of high end Panasonic and Canon DSLRs, but I switched to just using my phone a while back. The higher end models have a "pro" mode that will let you adjust just about everything. Most of my pictures come out super clear with an almost invisible background.

If you want to stick with your camera and just need more light different light boxes could help or maybe a light ring. Good deals on Amazon and eBay.

You could also just take pictures in natural light if that is at all possible.

I'm currently using a Samsung Galaxy S8+ and I was using these lights https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8GpaBbWCXSDTK until a few days ago when I found this kit in a Goodwill https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008GWH7VE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_GJpaBbG4K66S8

Best bang for your buck when it comes to portraits (based on what you currently own) is a lighting setup. 2 yongnuo 560exIV's and a transmitter should be around the 150-200$ mark. Some cheap umbrellas and stands can be found sub 75$ for a kit on amazon. Leaves you enough to either upgrade your body to something with faster AF and ISO for outdoors stuff (Maybe the latest and greatest rebel?) or get an 85mm F/1.8 lens which would be my go-to for portraits.

LINKS

Yongnuo Flash kit (Everything you need)

Complete umbrella setup

The difference in quality of photos by upgrading to an older FF or getting a new lens will be significantly less than by upgrading your lighting. Yongnuo also makes an extremely cheap flash with TTL so you can set it to auto when going around the house chasing moments. Toss a tiny softbox on it and slap it on the top of your camera and you'll be amazed at how nice the pics turn out.

Hey there, I will try to kelp you a bit.

First of all, you will need the gear to be able to stream

• a good laptop ( i suggest you an I7 )
  
• a good internet connexion - as you will stream at least 720p
  
• a good webcam ( Logitech c930 )
  
• and some lighting. ( daylight bulbs with reflexion umbrellas ) https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Umbrella-Lighting-Continuous-Reflector/dp/B0745B6S87
  
  If you will try to stream with a potato cam or using a slow internet connexion it would not be soo good for you. The Websites tend to promote girls who offer high-quality services.
  
  But this aspect can be improved in time don't worry about it.
  
  ---
  
  Depending on your personality I can make you some recommendations regarding websites. I can split websites in two categories based on the way the model makes money
  
  

  FREE CHAT TO PRIVATE CHAT/SHOW ( models are paid in private show )
  

  
  

• Streamate
  
• Livejasmin
  
• flirt4free
  
• Xlovecams
  
  

  FREE SHOW FOR TOKENS ( tokens = tips = money )
  

  
  

• Chaturbate
  
• Myfreecams
  
• Bongacams
  
  Good luck and welcome

The 3 factors I've noticed that make the biggest marginal improvement in a video are:

1. Good lighting - Set it up near a window, or place some lamps around you if you don't have a lighting set-up (they can run pretty cheap). Depending on what type of videos you are doing, you want most of your face to be completely visible, with no harsh brightness or shadows.
   
2. Audio Quality - Nothing turns me away from a video faster than when the speaker sounds like he is speaking into a can that is flying through a wind tunnel. More likely than not, built-in camera microphones are rubbish, It's just the way it is. It is much better to record with a separate microphone connected to a laptop or something. In a pinch, I've found that I can download a high-quality sound recorder on my phone, and place it in my front pocket (mic up) to achieve a sort of portable sound recorder that doesn't need to be plugged in. (Make sure its the high-quality app like Smart Voice Recorder with the 48kHz option selected, or you are doing no better).
   
3. Eliminating filler - Ever sat down to watch a video, then been presented a 45 second intro with crappy zoomed-in blurry footage from an anime? Never do this. If I don't know who you are, and I have to sit past a 10 second intro, I will likely lose interest. Don't bore us, get to the chorus. I have started introducing the video, doing any flashy intro stuff, and beginning the premise of the video within 7-8 seconds. Unless you live an exceptional life and people want to creepily get into your mind, nobody wants to listen to you drone on about nothing while talking into a camera (thats what Let's Plays are for, huehuehue).
   
   I love talking about this stuff, so if you have any more questions, let me know!

You can accomplish a lot with a single light.

I like the TT600s, but maybe hold off on buying more gear for now. Try to get good with your current flash before spending more money on gear. When you have experience, you'll have a much better idea of how to spend your money.

Presumably the Flash you have supports optical slave mode. Try using it off-camera; there are good guides to set that up.

If you're going to buy anything, I'd recommend a light stand, an umbrella holder, and an umbrella.

• https://amzn.com/B01HYM2IGK
  
• https://amzn.com/B01HHW7BAK
  
• https://amzn.com/B0000AQJD8
  
  Edit:
  
  Here's a kit. Not as good as the individual bits, but a lot cheaper: https://amzn.com/B01DJ11S6G

I'm looking to buy some lights for photography. I do film work so I feel more at home with continuous lighting.

I was thinking between softboxes or shoot through umbrellas like these

https://www.amazon.ca/Neewer-Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Lighting/dp/B00VWD2VUG/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1492787413&sr=8-4&keywords=umbrella+photo

I found some on ebay as well, as Neewer but each stand had space for two bulbs on each mount. That seems like the better option but I'd like to confirm

Does this seem like the right choice? Quick set up seems better than hassling with cheap softboxes, just wanted to know what you guys recommend.

I'm looking at getting a bundle like this from Amazon since all the individual pieces separately are seemingly from all the same shops, but more expensive, and all the bundles look the same. I'm just re-starting out and my budget is less than $100, so I'm wondering if it's even worth it for those? I have a Nikon D3100 already, and the kit lens. But I do have people wanting studio type sessions (newborn/infant) and don't have good natural lighting in my own home. I much prefer shooting outdoors, but it's about to get cooler and I can't really put babies outside in that. Basically is it a good short term idea till I can afford better? And then what's a good "better" that I should save up for?

Nice job! I thought it was a real good list and I've gotta agree with most of it, especially maximum overdrive. A few suggestions I'd make would be to try a different background, maybe have some horror related things around you like posters, figures, whatever. I'd also say try messing around with the lighting a bit for the face cam parts. It was shadowy too yellow. If you don't have anything specific you use I'd suggest this set.

https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469661904&sr=8-1&keywords=limostudio+lighting+kit

It's cheap and it works really well. You are very charismatic and the content of the video itself is really good. I liked the overall length of the video too, not overly long and just enough to describe each film and get the idea of why it made the list. Keep up the good work!

I kind of like the idea of a strobe set off craigslist, or the alien B400/800 as /u/CakesArePies mentioned, but considering the flexibility of a flash (personal perspective) over a strobe for mobility, I would prefer to purchase an extra flash & umbrella kit. I can use them for in house group/portraits too.

I'm pretty comfortable with the flash on body (with demb), and have used that a lot for indoor events. Regarding batteries, I already have 3 sets of Eneloop XXX (Black 2500mAh), and the La Crosse Charger - BC1000, for a speedy recharge.

I'm thinking of investing in a starter umbrella kit, and leaning towards the following (in order of preference);

• Westcott 43" umbrella kit
  
• [Impact Umbrella Kit] (http://www.amazon.com/Impact-Digital-Flash-Umbrella-Mount/dp/B0055P3JYE/)
  
• Cowboy, Single umbrella kit
  
  Along with the Canon 90EX as master flash trigger. I do plan to upgrade to a 6D, or higher soon, so rather than a 600-RT, I think a 90EX might be better choice.

Ok how's 3 tiers?

First tier is very basic. Any kit like this should do the trick. You would most likely put one light on either side while your product is on a table, then have the 3rd light pointed at a wall behind the table.


A step up from that would be a basic set of speedlights like this paired with one of these or an umbrella (two if you're feeling ambitious one on each side, then snag another flash for a BG light) Flashes are better vs continuous lighting from the first link as they allow you more control and let you modify the light easier (with softboxes and other various things, this would allow you to get softer light, harsher light, more focused light, etc etc) You can also bounce them off a white ceiling at higher power which would act like a big softbox overhead.

Top tier for someone starting out would be a set of alien bees Paired with a couple of softboxes and a background light. They take up more space and I wouldn't recommend them if you're just getting your feet wet. (mine are set up all the time and I shoot stuff like this and this with them. )

I've used these fairly cheap umbrella lights from amazon, they are a little bit flimsy, but are a great deal for the price, and put out a good amount of bright light. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TSCARK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_WcGQybTKT1YVG

This is great for being on a budget, can plug in to your laptop or get a cube to plug into the wall outlet, and it clips where you want: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074C7KRW5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Edited to add: the one above also lets you adjust the light to yellow/blue/mixed light and has multiple, easy to switch to settings. (Can you tell I love it? lol)

This was My first light set and IMO totally worth it if it is/becomes in your budget. I've had it for several years without issues.:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

So what I was also doing, is looking for reviews on it or something as close as possible, which I finally discovered on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Kshioe-6-6ftx9-8ft-Background-Continuous-Photography/dp/B074Z5SGBR/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_3?keywords=135W+Photography+Lighting+Kit+33%22+Umbrella+3*+Non-woven+Backdrop+Stand+Set&qid=1557772316&s=gateway&sr=8-3-fkmrnull

​

Different light temps, but essentially the same product, the reviews are pretty positive, though, you'll want to ensure you read them. Siting thin cloth and it being more of a beginner set. I was considering my own use of it and realized that combined with my ceiling fan, I may have difficulty utilizing it without it flapping about.

Goal: Build indoor product photography lighting setup for <$200

Hey pros, I need your help badly.

Recently I have purchased a Nikon D5200, a mannequin, and really started to really step up my product selling game. As I have no large scale lighting or backdrop setup i'm forced to do this outside (See: Example 1 and Example 2 ).

Now these photos are great and all but I can't shoot them whenever I want or at any time that's convenient really. So i'm hoping to build an indoor setup.

Pieces I need:

1. Infinite backdrop (Rather like the gray they use here)
   
2. Umbrellas? (How do you choose size and what seperates a 40$ setup from multi thousand dollar ones? Terrible Examples Here
   
3. High watt white lights, but which kind and wattage?
   
4. Fill light?
   
   I'm just all around overwhelmed, hopefully a pro can point me in the right direction.

This is what I have http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y31FHC/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 They have a really strong light but its also soft, I've never used more then one at a time because it really brightens the room. One thing I have noticed though is that it gives a slight blue tint the videos I make with it. No idea why. But yeah, for only a tad over $50 pretty good!

You'll get better video from your phone, honestly. Camcorders under the $200 price point really aren't worth getting - they have the same chips in as you find in a cellphone and they tend to be built to a cheap price.

Spend the money on lights and audio instead - You can get great results from a smartphone camera with a setup like this:

• 3 CFL photography lights - $50
  
• Rode Smartlav+ - $80
  
  Use the leftover money to get a tripod mount for your phone, and some sort of tripod to mount it on if you don't already have that.
  
  Read up on three point lighting and you'll get better results than 99% of YouTube vlogs!

Yes, there's a market for all body types. Many sex workers are pleasantly surprised at the level of demand for their "look". However, you will likely need to hustle more and it may take you a little longer to find your audience if you don't have a classically beautiful body. CamModelMom has tips on getting started as a plus size cam model.

You can get started with just your computer's webcam or a phonecam. People have shot feature films on phone cameras.

The key to getting good video out of a phone camera is to learn to take advantage of natural lighting, and lights you already may have (such as desklamps, worklights, Christmas lights). I recommend reading about how to light / film yourself first, then decide what kind of lighting you need:

• lighting
  
• how to film yourself
  
  If you have some money to spend, I would recommend the following as a basic kit.
  
  Camera, and camera boom. The Logitech C-922x has a built-in microphone.
  
  
• Logitech-C922x webcam - $75.00
  
• Smatree Flexible Webcam Boom - $17.00
  
  Next, upgrade your lighting:
  
  
• Emart 600W lighting kit - $60.00
  
  Finally, upgrade your sound:
  
  
• Blue Yeti microphone - $130.00
  
• Blue Radius II Microphone Shock Mount for Yeti - $50.00
  
• Microphone boom stand - $71.00
  
• Blue Yeti pop filter - $25.00
  
  You can spend hundreds or thousands more for better quality and easier to use equipment, but with the above kit, you should be able to get professional results. Depending on what your niche is, it may be worthwhile to spend money on costumes, tip-activated sex toys, room decorations, BDSM equipment, etc.
  
  
  

If you can do natural light, it is always best!
I got a set from amazon awhile back that I use ...
http://www.amazon.com/LimoStudio-Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-Lighting/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1413006810&sr=8-5&keywords=photography+studio

It's pretty nice having more then one light.
It depends also on the videos u r making.
What's ur youtube name?
MIne is Shopaholic Not So Anonymous

Hello! Here's a look out of my comfort zone, I usually stick to neutral warm shades like oranges and browns but I decided to try something new.

PRODUCTS USED
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade in Chocolate
Nyx Brow Mascara in Chocolate
Colourpop Shadow in I Owe You (transition shade)
Colourpop Shadow in Paradox (maroon)
Colourpop Shadow in Central Perk (brown)
Citycolor Shimmer Shadow in Beach Cottage (green)
Nyx Crystal Liner in Crystal Silk
Nyx Face & Body Loose Pigment in Gold (inner corner)
Too Faced Perfect Eyes Waterproof Liner in Perfect Black
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Ardell Lashes in 207
Too Faced Born This away Foundation in Warm Beige
Nyx HD Concealer in Beige
LA Girl Loose Powder in Banana
Tarte Bronzer in Park Ave. Princess
Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit in Snow & White Sand

LIGHTS
Photography Photo Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit by LimoStudio, LMS103 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_hO9PcBfKm1jNY

I use lighting like this for my streams and I love it. It’s more bulky than a ring light for sure and I place them feet from my desk so it may not be viable but I deal with a lot of light sensitivity/photophobia so I’m unable to use a ring light. This may not be an option for you but if you have issues with light it’s perfect for being well lit without the pain.

I work Streamate and have been a full time cam girl/escort for 4 years. Equipment matters! The better your stream, the better your traffic, visibility, and money.

1. Ideally you need a laptop or computer with an i5 or i7 processor
   
   
2. Technically no, you don't NEED a fancy cam. But if you want to make money, you should invest in one. The most popular cam for camgirls right now is the Logitech c920, which runs 60-70$ currently.
   
   
3. Invest in a set of umbrella lights. I use these. They're $40 on amazon:
   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TSCARK/ref=psdc_14014911_t1_B005FHZ2SI
   
   
4. The more time you put into cam and treat it as an actual, real job, the more $$ you will make.

I prefer OBS for software. It's lightweight, easy to use, and gets the job done. XSplit is a bit more feature rich but for most people's uses OBS will work.

As far as your camera, if you want to do a camera setup the most important thing is lighting. Really any HD webcam - I prefer Logitech models - up through an actually professional camera will work. I like using a greenscreen but regardless of if you use one or not you have to have good lighting. Using normal household lighting might work, but I'd suggest getting some cheap studio lights. I picked up this and it works just fine.

It takes a lot of work to get lighting and camera settings just right, so just take your time and work on it. I'm still not 100% happy with my setup, but that's something I'm going to be working on while I'm on a break from streaming.

I got this, it seems like a good amount of light for the money. My backdrop, I just got piece of sign from home depot that was pretty white, and a bit rigid, but still flexible, taped it to a table, and up the wall. I was pretty impressed with the light, its probably not amazing, but the price was right.

Will this light kit be adequate for small product photography for creating that seamless white background effect? Specifically fishing lures for a web store. I would get one of those soft box kits but I would like to use these lights for other things. Like setting up a green screen studio for my young nieces and nephews. Thanks

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=APGNKGIBL58YH

Hi! I know nothing about photography, but my sister is learning and playing around with it, and I wanted to get her some film & accessories for Christmas. She has a Minolta x700 that used to be my mother's. Any pointers on good things to get that would go with that? Thanks!

Edit: Decided to get her an entry-level umbrella lighting kit. Figured she'll get a lot of mileage out of playing with lighting.

A lot of Youtubers have simple lighting kits that work really well and increase the quality of the video drastically. Something like this would work well for just starting out and it's super affordable.

http://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Umbrella-Continuous-Lighting-Photography/dp/B013JV3J1I/ref=sr_1_2?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1463778143&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=lighting+kit&psc=1

I have this cheap light kit from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-LimoStudio/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1517634363&sr=8-3&keywords=light+kit

I use it for taking documentation pictures of art. It's pretty good, the bulbs that come with it aren't particularly bright, so I bought some of the same brand's larger bulbs. They're daylight balanced.

Depends on what kind of photography you'll be doing of course, if you plan to be hand holding, shooting people etc, you'll probably still want to use flashes (maybe as supplements to the light kit) or brighter lights.

Consider lighting instead. All cameras have noise problems. The expensive ones just have better low light conditions. If I were you I'd rather get a light kit (you can Amazon a 3 light kit and get one for under $150). Look up three point lighting and go from there. Cameras are expensive but they also might not solve your problem. Lights always will given that they gave enough watts.

Here's a good starter kit:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005FHZ2SI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482256333&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=light+kit

If you're keen on getting a camera look into repurposing a DSLR as a webcam. However for streaming purposes I really don't think you need much more than a $100 webcam.

Hope this helps,
Chris

That lighting backdrop looks good. You'll then need to solve the problem of softening light sources on the sides. You could do the backdrop and use a larger box with paper windows to diffuse light, or pick up some continuous lighting and umbrellas.

http://www.amazon.com/LimoStudio-Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-Lighting/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421634201&sr=8-1&keywords=Continuous+lighting

As far as cameras go, you don't need latest and greatest. Get a model a few years old and a telephoto lens. I would suggest something with live View so you can judge exposure. I would actually say that in your situation, a decent Micro 4/3s camera would be perfect. Even a Sony NEX would be fine. They are both interchangeable lens cameras. They both offer cheap telephotos too. Again, you don't really need a macro lens.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-NEX-5TL-Compact-Interchangeable-Digital/dp/B00ENZRP38/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421634410&sr=8-1&keywords=Sony+nex

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-55-210mm-F4-5-6-3-E-Mount-Cameras/dp/B00HNJWSDS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1421634575&sr=8-3&keywords=Sony+NEX+telephoto

Thanks! I've been eyeing something cheap like this (comes with stand):
https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_2?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1474599365&sr=1-2&keywords=light+set

Have you used the neewer one? Seems like it would be a great key light. I've heard the cheaper ones can sometimes have flicker problems, but the reviews are kind of amazing for it only being $33. Might have to pick it up. What's your lighting like?

It depends. you can get away with it with regular house lamps, or get a lighting kit
here is one i bough, but takes a bit of room . If going with regular house lamps, make sure it casts light evenly and does that you dont cast a shadow on the screen.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 They sometimes go on sale , and i was lucky to get mine for 35 dollars. Very good lighting!

Aww thank you! I've seen your posts around, I love your pics!

I bought some umbrella lights awhile back, and I usually have them out while I'm taking a photo-set. It makes a big difference, especially since the natural lighting in my apartment isn't the best. These are the ones I have :)

Are you using Lightroom? Also, I'm not sure how much money is low budget but you might want to consider some lights like these. If any of that is too expensive, then you might have to create something. For instance, look around for pallet boards. Stores sometimes throw them away. Tear off those planks and nail them together to create a large-ish "wall" that you can take outside for natural lighting. Then you can use props accordingly. Does that make sense?

Go for These umbrella softbox over the one you linked. Cheaper (2 for $35ish) - the umbrella softboxes you linked are very limited in adjustment. You can tilt up and down like 10 degrees since the stand is inside the umbrella, with these, the stand, bracket are outside, with the light inside, you can still tilt (See it set up here - It can tilt from horizontal to 90 degrees pointing straight down). Some may call them cheap, but I've been using my four for coming on 7 years now... just fine and still work like champs.

Especially for speedlites, cheaper stands are fine under many situations with some sort of sandbag.

The AD600 should be plenty enough. If you were doing this later in golden hour I'd say even 2 bare speedlites would be enough, but again I don't think power output is your only issue here; it's gonna be recycle times as you shoot rapidly to try and get a good frame of all 15 people. Speedlites, especially at full-power just can't compete in recycle time to strobes.

If it were me out there I'd be taking something like this and using it as a shoot-through to get a wider spread. If you have an assistant to hold your stand/umbrella that'd be ideal, but if not definitely grab a sandbag or two to weigh it down as it will certainly be windy out on the beach.

The AmazonBasics flash is ~$30 and is just a rebranded Neewer model. It's full manual, but if you're shooting off camera with speedlights, with the A6000 that's the only game in town anyway. (If there's a TTL wireless transmitter/receiver out there for the Sony multi-interface shoe, I'm not sure).

For stands and umbrellas, when I started off Cowboy Studio stuff was inexpensive and relatively good quality to price. I'm not sure if it's still that way, but if you're looking to keep it cheap to start with, it's not a bad way to go. Same with their wireless transmitter, but Neewer has one for $16 on Amazon right now that comes with 2 receivers.

(The one thing to keep in mind is that the hotshoe on the black A6000 is painted/coated, so the transmitter may have issues grounding, but I haven't had one of these in hand for several years, and I'm having difficulty remembering if the transmitter required a ground spot in the first place, as it's just a simple "pop the flash" affair. You should be fine though.)

So for a starter kit to learn off camera stuff, I'd say go with 2 of the AmazonBasics Flashes

This umbrella/stand kit

And the above mentioned trigger set. That's around $130 and two lights should be plenty to get you started. Maybe even consider getting some softboxes while you're at it.

Since you're just getting started with it, I wouldn't dump too much money into it for now. Those two flashes with umbrellas/soft boxes will be plenty to just get the basics down, learn the different lighting styles, and decide if shooting with flash is where you want to go.

From there, shelling out for some PocketWizards, Profoto strobes, and all the high end kit is up to you!

I’m starting to get into lighting. The goal is for portrait work outdoors.

A friend was kind enough to give me 2 yonguo speed lights and a trigger that he doesn’t use anymore. He told me to buy this:

Neewer 2 Pack 33"/84cm White Translucent Soft Umbrella for Photo and Video Studio Shooting

Camera Flash Speedlite Mount,ChromLives Professional Swivel Light Stand Light Bracket Umbrella Bracket Mount Shoe Holder E Type for Canon Nikon Pentax Olympus Nissin Metz and Other Speedlite Flashes

AmazonBasics Aluminum 7-Foot Light Stand with Case - 2-Pack

Can someone explain the difference between that and something like this?

He said to go as cheap as possible, but after you factor in the tax the amazon option is about ~$10 cheaper. My gut is telling me to go with the B&H because of the vast amount of positive reviews. What are your thoughts?

well it's not really comparing the same thing (LEDs have many tiny "bulbs"), but the cheap ones that are a couple hundred or less don't have the best quality. They can work, though - check for CRI/TLCI of 90 or 95+.


I just suggested those bulbs because you said you already bought a light but I may have misread it. I assumed you bought something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Umbrella-Lighting-Continuous-Reflector/dp/B0745B6S87/ref=pd_day0_hl_421_2/136-3115700-3349502?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0745B6S87&pd_rd_r=2bf64858-33f7-11e9-85c8-8db3782fc9c9&pd_rd_w=hfiRe&pd_rd_wg=SYVIp&pf_rd_p=ad07871c-e646-4161-82c7-5ed0d4c85b07&pf_rd_r=BAZRK8XSV9EQK7D4MNFR&psc=1&refRID=BAZRK8XSV9EQK7D4MNFR

If you, in fact, did buy something like the above, you can just replace those default bulbs with the ones I suggested. Yes umbrellas can be used, they are just a way of diffusing the light to make it softer (unless the umbrellas have a reflective silver surface inside, which, well, is used for reflecting light).


If you did buy an LED panel, check if the CRI or TLCI is at least 90 or higher. If not, I'd suggest returning and going the route I suggested. Possibly a little pricey but it will definitely be worth it. The LED panel if it's cheap will look terrible.


By the way, umbrellas and soft boxes basically work to do the same thing - diffuse the light. They are just different tools. For your purpose, I think umbrellas should suffice.

Hello!
I'm trying to build a small studio on a budget, since I don't really know that much about lighting and equipment, I'm shopping by best sellers/most reviews on Amazon, I will be doing portraits photos.

https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1511300862&sr=1-3&keywords=lighting+kit

And what about this for the stand?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E6GRHBO/ref=sxbs_sxwds-stvp_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3341940462&pd_rd_wg=jm5yS&pf_rd_r=XZG63ZDMVDGWZAPMBNH4&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-bottom-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B00E6GRHBO&pd_rd_w=JmGsI&pf_rd_i=lighting+kit&pd_rd_r=abee786f-075f-4975-acf1-144b8e613585&ie=UTF8&qid=1511300901&sr=1

Thanks a lot!

As far as lighting, depending on your budget and if you plan to green screen, you can get anything from a regular lamp from walmart or you can get a cheap but good studio lighting kit. Up to you.

If you're gonna use a green screen you want at least two sources of light, one from each side to eliminate shadows. This is the same kit that I use and it has been a phenomenal setup.

If you don't need a green screen and either don't mind some shadows or can mount the light straight on, then you can get a single studio light as well.

You're welcome! Here is the link

This link is especially cool because you can choose to buy the whole set at once or just parts. So if anything ever breaks or you want more of one thing, you can always take care of it!

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced lighting setup, here is what I use:

Photography Photo Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit by LimoStudio, LMS103 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XMmVBb2BH6EX3

I like the flexibility with having more than one light and the umbrellas really soften the light, giving a much higher quality of light. And if you ever desire to use a green screen, these can throw a lot of light on that to smooth out any shadows. It’s a solid setup for the price.

Personally I just went for it and got
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kfVByb3M3GG3G

Worth it. Brought them with me in Christmas to get good lighting for photos. Great success!(;
Came with carrying case and everything!

Photography Light stands are your best friend. Anything that has a camera mount (threaded screw that goes into the bottom of a camera) will work with the rift sensors.

I bought this kit for my wife's dress photography sessions but she stopped using them. The stands are PERFECT for either a full 3 sensor room setup OR just the rear sensor.

I sell clothing on eBay and I am wondering if this idea of mine is possible. I have this lighting kit. I want to be able to use it like an external flash trigger. So, the lights only turn on when I actually take a picture.

Is this possible? Is there some kind of thing I can attach to the outlet to only turn the lights on when I press a button or something? Thanks for any help.

1. Are lights something I can skimp on? I don't have a studio and I shoot mostly outside, but I've been looking at flashes and umbrellas to practice with. Is this stuff okay, and can I take it outside? I use a Nikon D750, if that matters.
   
   
2. I don't understand how the aperture shape affects bokeh. I see bokeh made of hearts and stuff, but how?

I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI
I used to use a remote but I had to hide it in the pics so now I use voice commands or Android phones have a feature to take a pic when you place your hand in front of you, thats quite helpful.

I've actually been looking into getting lights (and a green screen) for my channel recently, so I'm interested to see the responses to this. Out of what I've looked at so far, I think these umbrella lights are what I would go with. I don't really have any experience with lighting, so I can't say much as to how good those would actually be, but the price is definitely right, and my understanding is that umbrella lights are a little more portable than softboxes, which is a definite plus for me since I don't film in a single location.

I have the small flash bender and I've tried that soft box. Both are too small, in my opinion to produce soft light unless they are very close to the subject (one of the rules of light is the larger the light source, relative to the subject, the softer the light). You'd be better off investing in this kit.

The Speedliter's Handbook, by Syl Arena, is a great resource, although it is directed more toward Canon flashes, the principles apply to any flash by any manufacturer.

EDIT: Corrected autocorrect.

amazon sells a cheaper version here

they're pretty neat

Products!

-Electric Palette: "Jilted" and "Urban" in crease and lower lash line, "Fringe" on lid

-"Half Baked" from the Naked Palette in the inner corners

-Ardell Lashes: 120 Demi

-Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade in Auburn

-Loreal True Match in W1 Porcelain

-MAC Pro Longwear Concealer in NC15

-NYX Blush in "Terra Cotta"

-The Balm's Mary-Lou Manizer

-MAC Creme Cup with NYX Butter Gloss in "Eclair" on top

*ALSO for anyone who's interested, the lighting I use is something like [this guy right here] (http://www.amazon.com/Studiohut-KIT2CS-Photography-Continuous-Lighting/dp/B000GX484U/ref=sr_1_5?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1405011183&sr=1-5&keywords=umbrella+light)

u/valltekk Just to chime in with my limited experience but hours upon hours of researching tripods, I agree, don't go too cheap. I was going to get an Amazon Basics tripod, they had it listed as a bestseller with like 4k reviews...until I read the 1 star reviews. Tons of people complaining about an arm or other failure causing the tripod to collapse and smash their gear.

I ended up getting a Manftotto 290 light, it's aluminum and can only hold 8 lbs of gear but it's also half the price.

I also bought some portrait lights that were super cheap, like $50 for three stands and two umbrellas. They're not bad for the price but I recently got a speedlite and a mount for that and they are too flimsy to hold it and the softbox. Keep in mind though, the speedlite and softbox are a lot heavier than the lights and fixtures it comes with.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Not OP, but I bought these and they work perfectly for my setup. They're quality for the price they're at.

Depends on what you deem as inexpensive. I went with this for $50 recently:

http://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-Light-Lighting-Fluorescent-Umbrella/dp/B003Y31FHC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426098256&sr=8-1&keywords=Fancierstudio+Light+Kit

I have seen a huge improvement since I had terrible lighting in the room I was in... it also fixed all my green screen issues I was having. I don't think I will need to upgrade from this kit down the line which is also a perk (I still have tweaks I want to do).

However starting out a cheap lamp or two is probably the best bet actually.

> Is the 50mm offered in DX, only found fx versions of it on B&H

They only have FX versions, and those will work fine on your camera.

> Is the Yungnuo 568 a good model?

It's specifically recommended in the FAQ entry I linked.

> or should I stay with nikon?

Please read the link I provided. "First party hotshoe flashes can be very nice, but are usually very overpriced. We generally do not recommend them unless you're a professional who needs the build quality and warranty and can expense it."

> Found this on amazon-http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 , is that the type of umbrella you're referring to?

The umbrellas themselves, sure. But not those low-quality continuous lights.

http://www.reddit.com/r/photography/wiki/index#wiki_continuous_or_flash.3F

Your lighting setup matters a lot more than the camera for product shots and it’s pretty important for video too.

Look into a canon m50 or Sony a6300 as good starting points.

From there, because you’re doing video I guess just get continuous lights. For my wife we just use one light that holds four regular light bulbs (we use daylight balance led bulbs) and has a thing to hold an umbrella. Similar to this. A three light setup like that would be good for video but you probably want a bit more than a single bulb per light (you can always unscrew a bulb or two if it’s too much.

For product photography. I just don’t know how to properly light that stuff.

Good morning!

I'm leaning toward a career in creative with an emphasis on food, beverage and dining. I'm a beginning photographer, and have a Canon T2i with standard 18-55mm lens. This lighting kit and Adobe CC.

I was in a bar one day and saw a professional taking pictures of some craft cocktails. He had his DSLR hooked to a laptop, and after every shot he took, the image would populate on the screen of his computer. For whatever reason, I didn't ask him any questions. Any idea what he was doing? and, if so, is that something I need to look in to?

Yes I have a remote trigger for the flash.

How does this setup look? + a reflector? Can you find me a decent one on Amazon? Is it worth it at all to get one of the 5 packs they seem to have all over?

My suggestion is three of the Cactus V5 radio transceivers, two Yongnuo YN560 flashes, and two light stand kits with umbrella mount and a shoot-through umbrella

It's an inexpensive, reliable, portable, and powerful setup that works with every camera with a hotshoe. The three drawbacks are that flash power can only be controlled on the flashes themselves, the flashes are manual-only, and Canon bodies don't trigger non-ETTL flashes or transmitters in liveview mode. If you're doing home-studio work, none of those will matter. It's just something to be aware of. And definitely read David "Strobist" Hobby's blog.

Thanks ! This is what I have at the moment.

Photography Photo Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit by LimoStudio LMS103 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_uDpCwbFP3M7R2

And I have a seamless bright white paper background. I also have 2 additional smaller lights....same company, same color.

Ah, ok! I'm sure some other ladies will chime in, but I'd suggest something like this if you need an affordable option for something that can take decent photos and vids: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HLDFNKQ/

if you can do a little more: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T5A0EVQ/

Down the road you might want to upgrade to a camcorder or DSLR, but I think this is a good way to get started.
You also might consider an affordable light set if you don't have natural light: https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-LimoStudio/dp/B005FHZ2SI/

Thank you, this is very helpful.

Here is what I bought. I'm not using flashes as it's continuous lighting.

Thanks for your response! Yeah, this is the kit: http://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00.

I try to use the back camera of my phone more often than the selfie/front side but it's harder to look good! I bought a lighting set on amazon that really helped me out too.
My insta is @kimandmakeup :D

This is the set I bought. Works great.

https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-Lighting/dp/B018KE5XUO

I'm getting pretty frustrated the quality of my photos, especially with brighter, neon, or pastel clothes. I'm currently using these + a white sheet flat lay + iPhone 8 camera. I try to take photos in the lightest part of my house, but it's gray as hell where I am during this time of year. Any suggestions on improving my setup or technique? TIA.

Why don't you get the photolights?

I know they're a bit pricier, but they will last longer and, in the end, might end up costing the same amount.

Top seller on amazon

I would really like to know, as these are almost tempting to for me to buy.

You can get a kit with a stand, umbrella, and an adapter for your hotshot flash on Amazon for $36. Link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002DE3RYM/ref=mp_s_a_4?qid=1320287178&sr=8-4

Honestly, when the "real deal" can be had for probably less than your monthly cable bill, it's not worth the trouble to try improvising.

http://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI

This is the light kit I have. It works really well for starting out and its like 51 bucks.

Your best bet is just doing it yourself using you iPhone and these few items from Amazon. It'll cost you about $100 for these 3 items, but you'll never have to pay someone to do it for you, so its worth it.

https://www.amazon.com/Julius-Studio-Photography-Backdrop-Background/dp/B015YHXHWQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1526082839&sr=1-3&keywords=white+photo+backdrop

https://www.amazon.com/Julius-Studio-Background-Backdrop-Photography/dp/B072BCNRTY/ref=pd_bxgy_421_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B072BCNRTY&pd_rd_r=3P35Q5G0Z2FWQG3Q4TAK&pd_rd_w=ZQN9c&pd_rd_wg=ReAuO&psc=1&refRID=3P35Q5G0Z2FWQG3Q4TAK

https://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-DK2-Professional-Photography-continuous/dp/B004TSCARK/ref=sr_1_7?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1526082936&sr=1-7&keywords=studio+lighting

I am a hobbyist photographer. I was in this situation as well, I first ordered the cheapest shoot through umbrella and stand I could find (Neewer- $20). It was a total POS, the mount was cheap plastic and I returned it. I paid slightly more for a LimoStudio light kit+ 2 flash umbrella holders and am much happier with this purchase. The stands are light weight but fine for indoors and outdoors any stand should be weighted down. I bought this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and 2 of these to adapt off camera flash
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DAW8688/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These are a little cheaper and work exactly the same: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_oZybzbZ9XAP4V Just make sure they're about at a 45° angle to you on either side, a little above your head. And make sure the green screen is back just enough so you're not casting any dark or large shadows on it

Actually, I was looking more for the lighting end of things. I ended up going with https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O0NMDYE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ABFSAPU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

As well as https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PIM3I6I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I think this will be flexible enough for me. I've got a newborn and will be mainly using this setup for portrait photography as he grows up.

This one looks good in that price range.

Photography Photo Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit by LimoStudio, LMS103 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7WkdzbE542YXW

Make sure you get daylight if you are mixing with windows. Some CFLs will be way too warm to mix.

I think for your budget, you'll get more light going with CFLs. It'll be a little warmer, but not searingly hot.

I've been using this one for months now for my Twitch streams and really enjoy it. Inexpensive and does just what I need it to do.


Here's before the kit, and here's after.

Lighting for sure, I use this and it works alright https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_3?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1478746071&sr=1-3&keywords=Studio+lighting

> I am a hobby-ist and wondering about the cost to get a simple two strobe remote system for shooting at Roller Derby bouts.

Assuming you have nothing, and you want a typical two-flash strobist setup?

• CowboyStudio kit with 2 stands, 2 light brackets, 4 umbrellas and carrying case - $68
  
• 2xYongnuo YN560-III flash with built in RX receiver, $168 - I was lucky when I bought mine, and paid $99 for two flashes, so keeping an eye on this may pay off big time.
  
• Yongnuo RF603, $33. Note that this comes in different versions, depending on the camera you have, so you will need to find the right version - I merely linked to that as an example.
  
  
  
  

Simple headshots?

I started with THIS

Changed the bulbs to my liking and voila.

Man, this sub is dope. Thanks everyone for your quick responses! I didn't even think about the camera auto adjusting, that plus the fluorescent light and the button LEDs are probably not a good combination. I will test is out and report back!

Also, if i was going to buy some low cost lighting (~50$) what would be a good set? I read the wiki and people said http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=ox_sc_imb_mini_detail?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=APGNKGIBL58YH
which look nice and are pretty bang for your buck but still might be a little over kill for tabletop.

Thanks!

this is what I use

Facing me diagonally from both ends of my desk. Needed them to get the green screen working.here is how it looks with one of my favorite overlays... hahaha

This lighting kit; I'm mostly doing outdoor/macro photography, but if I expand to portraits I could actually be making some money out of all this.

If you don't have the means at the moment to invest in speedlites and remote triggers, I recommend continuous studio lights in umbrella or softbox form.

I am looking to get some lighting gear like this. However, I already have some stands and umbrellas - what is the thing I would be looking to buy if I were only looking for the head (that would hold a light bulb)? Also, what kind of light bulbs should I look for?

would you guys recommend this?

Just get something like this and plug in whatever bulbs you want. Strobes don't really work for video.

Sure! This is what I bought:
Photography Photo Portrait... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I've been using this: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ and it's been great so far. I'm not a skilled photographer, but this lighting really did make a difference.

It seems that your comment contains 1 or more links that are hard to tap for mobile users.
I will extend those so they're easier for our sausage fingers to click!


Here is link number 1 - Previous text "kit"



----
^Please ^PM ^/u/eganwall ^with ^issues ^or ^feedback! ^| ^Delete

Buy a green screen like this one about $60 and a cheap webcam for $50 and for lighting $60

Something like this. This is what I have

Many Cam is a great one.

Here is a cheap light system...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018KE5XUO/ref=sspa_mw_detail_3?psc=1

Also don’t use a built in webcam. They are crap and customers won’t watch. Most girls stream in HD.

The following is for a two light setup

this
Just add flashes. there are some good cheep flashes out there do your research and read reviews.

I went with these but they are a pricey. but they do what me and my fiancee need and its modular so I can add more flashes to the system.

in additon we also got a set of these as we determined some times we need to limit the back blast of light you get from a shoot threw umbrella

Go to Strobist and read his guides. so much good info

For me, cheap as in $50 USD lol. I'm thinking about this https://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-Umbrella-Lighting-Professional-Photography/dp/B003Y31FHC/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1497559675&sr=1-3&keywords=professional+lighting+for+video

Not sure how I would use the small one, though.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=s9_simh_gw_p421_d0_i2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0RHZ1WW1HSSQFFPS6VVJ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846

These are really cheap, you can find much higher end studio/photography/portrait lights. They can work to provide spot lighting. You still need good overhead lights and the higher the bulb wattage in the umbrella lights the better, same for the overhead really. Big shop lights can work as well, i.e. halogen, but they get hot, not ideal unless you're in a cooler climate.

If you're ok swapping one white-label for another, neewer sells it for $79.99.

This is the one i have. It all collapses down to a thin bag which is easily hidden in a closet or under the bed and the bulbs are top notch

Photography Photo Portrait Studio 600W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit by LimoStudio, LMS103 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_o1P9ybEH9CPBC

Thank you for your insight. It's given me something to think about. I think I'm going with the Panasonic now. Here's the list I've gathered:

Panasonic G7

White balance card

[This](
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005FHZ2SI&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) lighting set.

Amazon basics tripod

Whatever the shotgun mic will be

No extra lenses for now

Some bag

yea I have that similar setup now but there is no way I can fit the light umbrellas. I bought this back in 2014 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y31FHC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thinking about a led light panel but so expensive!

These are the umbrella lights that I have:
https://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-DK2-Umbrella-Professional-Photography/dp/B004TSCARK/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1478013351&sr=8-6&keywords=umbrella+lights

This is what I mean about using foam boards:
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/27/33/61/2733611f93695a589884bc848c200a21.jpg

I'm not sure if I'll be able to create the same effect with umbrella lights.

If you have not done lighting before, you should really practice first, and you should simply buy before renting. If you don't know how to use basic cheap equipment, you'll have even more problems trying to use higher end equipment.

I would buy instead of rent, it's about the same price and if you learn how to use it properly you'll get the same results. The reason pro equipment costs a lot is not because it makes your photos better, it's because it's more reliable, quick, etc. Lots of pros don't always use pro equipment.

Neewer TT560 - $40

Flash stand with umbrella - $33

43" reflector - $13

Total: 86

Stand the model in front of a white background, put the Flash and umbrella at a 45 degree angle from the subject, hold the reflector on the opposite site to use as a fill. Use photoshop to turn the background pure white.

If you want to go super budget, buy 3 canlights from home depot ($7 each), buy 3 150w equivalent dailight CFL bulbs ($13 each), and a piece of white foamcore board ($1) for a total of about $70 depending on the pricing close to you. Use one can light as a key, use the foamcore board as a fill, use a 2nd can light as a background light, and the third as a backlight for the subject. You will of course need something to clamp the lights on. If you are doing full body shots you can use a white shower curtain as a diffuser for the key canlight.

Here's a lighting tutorial that you can use to get some ideas too. This site has a lot of tutorials you can check out. Ignore the pro equipment, it can almost all be swapped with DIY or cheap equipment.

i got 2 sets of lights.

1. A 3 light ubrella kit This
   
   
2. A horse shoe light This

https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-LimoStudio/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=lighting+setup&qid=1565406980&s=gateway&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_-EMnDb8Z0AE1X

I use these; http://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_5?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1456935387&sr=1-5&keywords=photography+lighting

They're super-duper.

Do you mean these? https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI

Those are what I have in my wishlist but I won't really have room for them. Also, I don't know if I can use LED strips since I'm renting. Don't they require being drilled into the wall?

I also do the youtubes. I use this cheap and reliable light kit from amazon.

Maybe you should buy her a lighting kit!

Thanks

Non-mobile: This

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FHZ2SI?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00

Here is the mobile version of your link

This plus a white wall in my house. Adjust the levels in photoshop.

We use Neewer Photography Lighting kit. You can change the lamps to any color but they come with daylight balances LEDs!

Neewer 600W 5500K Photo Studio Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013JV3J1I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6svRAbV12VWD1

I have these lights from Amazon

I don't care what anyone says, lighting is important. It's second only to sound as the two biggest and easiest to fix flaws that damn near every streamer has issues with.

The good news is that you don't need to go overboard with professional lights. You can get the Neewer lighting kits for under $50 and, if you watch for sales, you can get it as cheap as $35. It comes with three lights and two umbrella diffusers meant for three point lighting set-ups.

But you don't even need to go that far really. If you're streaming from a couch, you'll do better with a kit. But if you're streaming from your desk, you can get away with using a couple of cheap desk lamps with CFL bulbs in them, one acting as a key and the other acting as a back. You can use the monitor light as your fill. You can probably find lamps like that cheaper from Walmart or the Dollar Store, honestly, but the link is more to give you an idea.

Whatever you do, do not just use your room's overhead light. It can create issues with backlighting and some really harsh shadows across your face. Also, make sure to put shades or curtains over all your windows in order to block out sunlight. The light through a window can change a lot in as little as an hour just as the sun moves, let along changing weather conditions. It can cause you headaches trying to light yourself if you've got that sort of inconsistent light screwing things up every time you set up.

The harsh bit of information is: you're not going to be able to get good results with no experience and a £100 budget.

Basically, for that level, you'll only have full manual flashes, so will need to understand how and why you're adjusting the settings (which will be limited) on that budget.

However, in the UK, look to amazon, for the brand Neewer.
You will want the following items:

• a light stand
  
• a shoe mount
  
• a large diffuser - an umbrella or octobox are typical
  
• remote triggers (cable or radio)
  
• a flash
  
  An example set up of this can be a lighting kit of the stand, umbrella, and mount at £25, a full manual flash for £26, and very basic transmitter and receiver for £11
  
  Be warned though: this kit is not brilliant. But can be a reasonable starting point to get an idea of what to do.
  
  The other alternative is to find and see if you can have the scene naturally lit, and use some form of reflector (large bit of white cardboard can help for cheap) to add some fill in the shadows.

Just to confirm based on what you're saying on other threads too, you say your flash can only go up to 1/128 and you want something that goes up to 1/4000. Do you mean shutter speed sync? Because normally 1/128 means that the flash is only firing with that fraction of power from its 1/1 full power setting, so 1/4000 would be almost nothing.

Also umbrellas are extremely affordable, you can get a 3-umbrella kit with mount and tripod for under $35.

This is the exact kit I got. No adjustable output :/ I'm thinking I could do some product photography and maybe some portraits but I don't have many other ideas

Buy a $50 light kit for fucks sake

https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Umbrella-Continuous-LimoStudio-x/dp/B005FHZ2SI/