Show us YOUR Studio Dazzled Re: Show us YOUR Studiorayzorfist.org/temp/FredMiranda.com-StudioThread-Pages11-20.pdf · Country: United States Re: Show us YOUR Studio netimages wrote:

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Show us YOUR Studio

DazzledOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Nov 23, 2004Total Posts: 87Country: Canada

Re: Show us YOUR Studio

wow

____________________________

20D,etc.

Dec 19, 2004 at 05:15 PM

gpgyoOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Jan 02, 2004Total Posts: 172Country: United States


infocusinc wrote:Our camera room measures 60'x100' with 18' ceilings and features a 10'x12' and a 16'x14' overhead doors.

I've got to get me one of those!

Greg

Dec 19, 2004 at 08:19 PM

infocusincOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Dec 18, 2004Total Posts: 6Country: United States


gpgyo wrote:infocusinc wrote:Our camera room measures 60'x100' with 18' ceilings and features a 10'x12' and a 16'x14' overhead doors.

I've got to get me one of those!

Greg

its great untill you have to pay the gas bill for the heat...

Dec 19, 2004 at 11:22 PM

JohnEOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Feb 27, 2002Total Posts: 2604Country: United States


infocusinc wrote:ok...here's minehttp://www.pbase.com/infocusinc

WOW!!!!! What a space and what a gallery of equipment!

____________________________Canon 1Dsmk2, 1Ds, 1Dmk2, 400 f2.8L IS, 70-200f2.8L IS, 24-70Lf2.8, 100-400L IS, 17-35L, 85L 1.2, 50 1.4, 135f2.8, 580EZ, 550EX, etc.

Dec 20, 2004 at 09:12 AM

woody916OfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Jun 19, 2003Total Posts: 561Country: United States


Let me bring the rest of us "normal" joes back to reality with my dinky studio,

All in all, I have about 1900 sq foot studio with two shooting rooms exactly like this one....misc props and crap. As youcan see, I am not the most organized person in the world.

Regards,

Craig

Dec 20, 2004 at 09:44 AM

infocusincOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Dec 18, 2004Total Posts: 6Country: United States


You have a nice space Craig...and hey I'm a normal Joe, but I just shoot really BIG stuff.

Your clutter is not bad, you just got to peek at my place when it was clean

Dec 20, 2004 at 07:44 PM

idahoairshipsOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Nov 24, 2004Total Posts: 96Country: United States


I'd bet that I have the smallest "studio" of anyone on the forum!

____________________________Leo A. GeisVarious Canon digital, all "L", macro & microPentax 645 & 70mm53', 71' tall camera pods

Robotic & remote control helicopters, airplanes

Dec 20, 2004 at 08:41 PM

NeilSOfflineImage Upload: OnRegistered: Sep 22, 2002Total Posts: 301Country: United States


idahoairships wrote:I'd bet that I have the smallest "studio" of anyone on the forum!

Leo, at least I bet your 'studio' has a very large fan in the front to blow back the hair!!

____________________________Canon 1D MkIICanon lenses

Hensel Studio lights

Dec 21, 2004 at 03:25 PM

netimagesOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Dec 22, 2004Total Posts: 81Country: Canada


I turned my solarium into a studio.Its 10 feet high at one point but limited in use because its too close to the backdrop. Not sure how I can use this high spot yet...Everything is covered in black felt except for the roof which is also glass.I may consider covering that also to eliminate any reflections.<>To get a nice seamless background {blur} I have to move the modelinto the 8 foot area.

Ah yeah. The model.

Updated: Jan 4 2005:http://bm8.net/my_studio/my_studio.htm

Edited by netimages on Jan 04, 2005 at 09:43 AM GMT (Reason: updated...)

____________________________Canon 1D Mark II4 Bowens 500 watters.<>http://netimages.biz/http://www.onemodelplace.com/netimages/http://www.musecube.com/netimages/portfolios.htm

Dec 22, 2004 at 05:09 PM



Hey John, I love your work !

A few questions on your setup.Im planning to buy a plexiglass base for my studio because high heels tend to damage the wood/backdrop. {my studio isposted}

Why a clear and a white plexiglass ?Couldn't the clear be used with a white semless ?

What seamless setup is that.Seems nice that you can unroll each roll individually or can you ?Is it easy to change ?

Also how high is your studio ?

Thks man and keep up the excellent work.You're lucky to have a daughter to help out also


Dec 22, 2004 at 05:24 PM

Squid NickOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Oct 06, 2003Total Posts: 218Country: United States


Oooh, that's what I need. A fake head to throw on a tripod. Oh anyways, I'll post pictures of my studio once I return toSac after the 1st. I have the pictures but no computer that can process the raw's...

____________________________Nicholas Blasgen (OMP 60804)[email protected]://www.refract.com/

Canon 20D, 10D, EX420, 17-40L f4, 28-70L f2.8,50 f1.4, 85 f1.8, and access to others

2 AB 400's, 2 AB 800's, gels, grids, backdrops, boxes, etc

Dec 23, 2004 at 02:10 PM

Stuart MOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: May 04, 2004Total Posts: 119Country: United Kingdom


Ney netimages, I see you assistant is lazing around on the job there! Must be thinking about the 10th meal break day....

____________________________Stuart MacKenzie1V HS, 1D MkII, 300D, EOS10 for sentimental reasons!16-35L 2.8, 24-70L 2.8, 24L TS-E 3.5, 50 1.470-200L 2.8 IS, 300L 2.8 IS, 400L 2.8 IS, 1.4x & 2.0x

And lots of other junk....

Dec 24, 2004 at 12:05 PM

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Hey Nick,

If you're serious you would be better off with one with skin tones and a wig.White is much too neutral a color for testing.CheersBarrie


Dec 24, 2004 at 12:11 PM



Hehe,No he was a bit miffed that he wasn't getting any attention.Do you blame me ?

Cheers,Barrie


Dec 24, 2004 at 12:13 PM

K. San MartinOnlineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Jun 11, 2003Total Posts: 70Country: United States


Take a look at my studio www.icebergstudios.net

Kike San Martin

____________________________Canon 1Ds Mk IICanon EOS 1DsCanon EOS 20DCanon EOS 10DEOS 1Hasselblad 500 CMMamiya 645 Pro TLWeltaflexwww.kikesanmartin.com

www.icebergstudios.net

Dec 25, 2004 at 10:18 PM



Kike,

Just a quick question.Is that wrap around backdrop regular seamless white paper or is it some special backdrop paper ? I presume there are molds also to keep the corners round ?

thanks

Barrie

ps: Very nice BTW


Dec 26, 2004 at 04:42 AM

azurephotoOfflineAccount lockedRegistered: Sep 25, 2004Total Posts: 1583Country: Canada


Some more from my ghetto fabulous "studio" (re: basement apartment)

Poopy setup shot...(that's right, two crappy 100w & a 40/w strobe...

Result/Model:

Dec 26, 2004 at 08:11 AM



Impressive !Good stuff man.If you're anywhere in Quebec drop me a line.Cheers


Dec 26, 2004 at 08:45 AM



netimages wrote:Hey John, I love your work !A few questions on your setup.Im planning to buy a plexiglass base for my studio because high heels tend to damage the wood/backdrop. {my studio is posted}

Thanks for your compliments.

Great use of your space and I love those beautiful wood floors. You have a perfect setup of natural light shots.

Why a clear and a white plexiglass ?Couldn't the clear be used with a white semless ?

Yes, it would make sense to use clear with any coor of seamless. I ended up with clear, white and black. White, because Istarted with the white using it for product shots (the plexiglas on saw horses with lighting from below.) I wanted the blackplexi for a very ricg reflection and then clear for everything else.

What seamless setup is that.Seems nice that you can unroll each roll individually or can you ?Is it easy to change ?

I just simply screwed two 90 degree angle shelf brackets into the wall where it meets the ceiling and bent the ends up. Ithen run a 10' pipe throught eh 9' seamless rolls and hang it up on the shelf brackets. Its a very cheap setup, certainlyunder $10. The rolls go up and down with ease.

Also how high is your studio ?

The ceilings are between 8' and 8' 6". It work fine for any model except those that are 5' 11" and above.

Thks man and keep up the excellent work.You're lucky to have a daughter to help out also

I am so fortunate to be able to work with my daughter and that she is so talented.

Kind regards,John


Dec 26, 2004 at 10:25 AM

azurephotoOfflineAccount lockedRegistered: Sep 25, 2004Total Posts: 1583Country: Canada


netimages wrote:Impressive !Good stuff man.If you're anywhere in Quebec drop me a line.Cheers

Not quite...just next door in Ontario. I've been told Montreal is a good place to go party, however..... Thank you for thekind words.

Dec 26, 2004 at 03:38 PM



Someone asked me about what my travel studio looks like. This is instead a picture of the full studio (which I moved toanother location for a few weeks and had to pack up anyways). The big bag and the backdrop set are my "traveling"section. It's really impressive what that big bag can carry.

Edited by Squid Nick on Jan 02, 2005 at 09:54 PM GMT




Jan 01, 2005 at 10:40 PM

MilkCratesOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Nov 22, 2004Total Posts: 15Country: Canada


i see that Mailou made it into that one too

____________________________

---Box'o'toys---

Jan 01, 2005 at 10:57 PM



Here's an "update" to "my studio".

http://bm8.net/my_studio/my_studio.htm


Jan 02, 2005 at 12:02 PM

dennysbOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Oct 19, 2004Total Posts: 355Country: United States


netimages,

thanks for the "studio" info. It gives me a great reference for my owm efforts.

happy new year!

____________________________Dennys BisognoCanon EOS D60 - Canon EF 100-400mm F4.5/5.6L IS USM - EF 28-135mm F3.5/5.6 IS USM - EF 50mm 1.8 II - Speedlite 580EX - ST-E2 - Hoya Filters -

Sekonic L-358 - Alien Bee Strobe Light

Jan 02, 2005 at 12:16 PM

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dennysb wrote:netimages,thanks for the "studio" info. It gives me a great reference for my owm efforts.happy new year!

Glad to be of help.Still fine tuning.Don't forget to show ur pics


Jan 02, 2005 at 12:58 PM



Hi John !

Well your comment below makes me want to integrate my backdrops with my wood floors now. Sometimes things are soobvious you can't even see them...

"Great use of your space and I love those beautiful wood floors. You have a perfect setup of natural light shots. "

So I did a few tests over the week-end with the idea of using the wood floor with various backdrops. Basically gel drivenbackdrops along with solid color materials. I'm not too sure what the solution is so i put together this little html page. I was wondering if you would have any suggestions for me ?{only if you have time of course...}I think I will post it in this forumn also...http://bm8.net/my_studio/flooring/flooring.htm

This morning I also picked up on your idea of having black curtains to control background spill. Great idea. I think I couldpossibly integrate that also with yet another windsurfing mast... In fact your post if full of great idea's. Would it be

possible to get a larger pic of Studio_wDiagram00047.jpg and 93 I didn't understand what was happening in your high tech. mounting though ?

Hope this is not too much to ask but your studio setup and resulting photo's really inspire me. More importantly theyshow the possibilities of what one can achieve with a home studio.

I guess to complete the perfect setup I would have to marry your daughter though, but that's a whole other post*wink*...

Barrie

ps: http://bm8.net/my_studio/my_studio.htm


Jan 04, 2005 at 09:02 AM



netimages

In answer to a few of your comments and questions...

A few notes on the process of getting the backdrop{s} to merge with the flooring. How do we achieve a nice smooth transition ? I'm not so sure you can or necessarily want to have a smooth transitionbetween the backdrop and the wood floor. The two are quite different materials/texture etc. (not that it would beimpossible to do.) Using the natural lighting in the room, with those beautiful wood floors and simple furniture thatdoesn't detract from the model is what I would shoot for.

I could find mickey mouse and minimalist solutions but would really like long term and professional studio like solution with maximumflexibility.

Case1:White backdrop meeting the floor in a rolled up fashion.Its not bad but could be better. Was thinking of putting down a plexiglas but then the models space is restricted to a 4x8 space... Notgood. I could always tape the edge but the edges don't last long on seam less...Not sure what to do ? I thought the room was 31' long. Seems like plenty of space to pull the seamless out over the floorand place a sheet of plexiglas over it. You're bigger problem might be "Where do I store the plexi when its not in use?)The rolled up look really doesn't work for me.

The other problem shown below is the lighting separation of the floor.{ie: light to dark..}I think this could be solved by putting an umbrella overhead which wouldlight up the entire floor and part of the backdrop as well. {?} To be tested.I would prefer not to see the cracks in the flooring. Not sure what you mean by this "lighting separation of the floor." I don't doanything special to light the floor. I only focus on lighting the backdrop and the model. The lighting on the floor justseems to fall into place (I do watch for the background light to cast shadows of the seamless/floor.)

Case 2:Lighting the backdrop. The floor takes on the same color ?Now if I use the overhead lighting solution stated above I'm probably going to have color conflicts with white winning out...It will be fine if we don't do a full body shot but otherwise ?Hmm, what to do ? The wood floor may appear a bit strange when hit with the gels unless the whole image takes on thegelled look.

Here's a closer view of the rolled up effect.So this won't work. On a side note though I got to say I like how uniform the pink gel is The floor would be acceptable like this but notthe double edge of the seamless roll. I agree.

Non-gel'ed backdrop.Once again the dual floor lighting effect. Once again I think an overhead should solve this with some spill onto the backdrop...

I typically like a clean background unless I want a busy background for a specific purpose. That's one of the reasons that Ilike the combination of the seamless and plexiglas (with the plexiglas adding a sense of depth to the image.) Because itssimple and doesn't detract from the model or clothing.

John


Jan 04, 2005 at 03:31 PM

cbfountOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Jul 09, 2002Total Posts: 183Country: United States


Great dialog, lots of nice posts.

Barrie, can you post a source for the wide black felt you are using?(I know John said he found his on ebay--I haven't had success)Thanks in advance.

____________________________Southern CaliforniaCurrent Gear:Canon 1 Digital and AnalogBright lights and a case full of sharp glassMitsubishi CP-8000

Epsons

Jan 04, 2005 at 04:35 PM



Great dialog, lots of nice posts.



Epsons

Jan 04, 2005 at 04:35 PM



Hi CB !

Got in a local tissue store.6 feet high and sewn together with 3 seams.Its only used to block out light though.It was cheap.Try and get the kind that isn't shiny just in case you may want to use it as a quick backdrop.

Barrie

cbfount wrote:Great dialog, lots of nice posts.



Jan 04, 2005 at 04:50 PM



Thanks! I'm sure that would be a cheaper way for me to go. I was looking for 9' wide felt, but coming up empty. I haven'truled out commando cloth, but want to see some of the different varieties (not sure if it actually stops light).


Epsons

Jan 04, 2005 at 05:14 PM



cbfount wrote:Thanks! I'm sure that would be a cheaper way for me to go. I was looking for 9' wide felt, but coming up empty. I haven't ruled outcommando cloth, but want to see some of the different varieties (not sure if it actually stops light).

cbfount,

Here's a few links to the material that I found on ebay.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=30079&item=2951462069&tc=photo

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=30079&item=3864809067&tc=photo

Here is the place that supplies it. STEVE KAESER BACKGROUNDS http://www.skaeser.com/

The material feels like a felt and is fairly heavy. To hang it, I picked up something like a shower curatin track that thehospitals use to hang the privacy drapes in the emergency room (between the cubicles.) It comes with a chain and hookwith a little cart with wheels that runs in the track. I picked up a brass grommet kit and tools to put the brass rings in thematerial from Home Depot for under $20.

Here's a link to where I found the track... http://store.yahoo.com/medicalproductsdirect/hanprivscree.html

John


Jan 05, 2005 at 08:35 AM



Thanks John. Is this like commando cloth or Duvetyne? I purchased some fairly heavy black muslin, but as you know, itdoesn't block light very well--for blacking out a room. It works great as black backdrop, however.


Epsons

Jan 05, 2005 at 10:45 AM



cbfount wrote:Thanks John. Is this like commando cloth or Duvetyne? I purchased some fairly heavy black muslin, but as you know, it doesn't block lightvery well--for blacking out a room. It works great as black backdrop, however.

I'm not familiar with Commando Cloth or Duvetyne. The material that I recieved is similar to felt, very heavy and non-reflective. It really absorbs the light. Why not call them and talk to them about it?

Best regards,John


Jan 05, 2005 at 02:10 PM

ilegalesOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Nov 19, 2003Total Posts: 226Country: United Kingdom


JohnE you are a truly very helpful guy...and wonderful photographer..

I started this thread just to see some setups...but its become much more than that..thanks to people like yourself..

I am still in the middle of deciding about some lighting equipment....in the UK it costs too much so will probably end upshipping in some ABs to uk..

Keep up your splended work John

RegardsAlejandro

____________________________http://www.volny.cz/hyamhttp://www.volny.cz/photopixCanon 1D, 100mm macro 2.8, 70-200 IS

Feel free to edit/repost any picture I upload here.

Jan 05, 2005 at 03:38 PM

bantererOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Sep 16, 2003Total Posts: 274Country: United States


Still new to this studio stuff.

When it comes to backdrops, is there any one that is universally versatile or would the most flexible, yet minimumquanitity be 3:• White• Gray - I've been told with gels can be made to appear different colors• Black

Oh yeah, and are these things washable/ I am thinking about the black material [or something like it] that JohnEmentioned above and some plexi.

Also, any advantage to going with white plexi as opposed to clear to be able to use the clear on any color?

Thanks,Jorge

____________________________EOS 630 gathering dust, 10D, 1D2

17-40 4L, 28-70, 24-70 2.8L, 70-210, 50 1.4, 85 1.8, 70-200 2.8L IS, 2X, 180 macro, 200 1.8

Epson 9600, Encad Novajet Pro w/yarc RIP, Single G4, Dual 2 G5, 20" and 17" Cinema displays

Gitzo 1325, RRS BH-55, Gitzo 1578L/

RRS B2-Pro LLR

Jan 05, 2005 at 04:36 PM

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banterer wrote:Still new to this studio stuff.

When it comes to backdrops, is there any one that is universally versatile or would the most flexible, yet minimum quanitity be 3:• White• Gray - I've been told with gels can be made to appear different colors• Black

Oh yeah, and are these things washable/ I am thinking about the black material [or something like it] that JohnE mentioned above andsome plexi.

Also, any advantage to going with white plexi as opposed to clear to be able to use the clear on any color?

Thanks,Jorge

Jorge,

These are all good questions.I'm glad there's people like John to help us out.Here's my 2 cents worth backed up by a few pics.This link was initially about flooring but also talks about backdrops.

Here's the link:http://bm8.net/my_studio/flooring/flooring.htm

I would suggest that the best solution is buying seamless paper the exact 3 colors you mentioned above. Later on you canadd other specific colors.Don't try to re-create gray form black. I've had a hell of a time with that.You need a least two strobes and a lot of patience.I'm going to buy a gray backdrop.

If you want to get creative look at my Photo #3 in the above link.I'm pretty proud of the uniform color which shows it can be done !Mind you there's two other problems.One is that the floor takes on the same color {see photo #2} and two is that in these pictures I don't have the "main"light on yet. Maybe that would help cancel out some of the floor problem but I "know" it will also spill over onto thebackdrop and may contaminate the pink. {I'll have to try this...}So again another case for a solid seamless color. Less hassel..

The other solution is photo #4 where you use "materials".Take a close look and now you're dealing with creases and ironing...Bleh... Nevertheless sometimes material has its advantages.

Bottom line I say go with seamless with the 3 basic colors.Of course pay attention on how you are going to hang them.http://bm8.net/my_studio/the_backdrop_system/the_backdrop_system.htm

John gave me specific reeasons why he went with the white and black plexi. See previous posts.I went with the clear for the reasons you stated.

Not a very good picture but you can see the advantages right off.It also does a great job of keeping your backdrop {seamless} in place.Disadvantage is that it forces you onto a 4'x8' mini platform which I really don't like. {ie: if you want to stay within the4x8}.

Good luck.Drop me a line if you need more help as I'm presently doing several differnet tests in this area...

Barrie


Jan 05, 2005 at 05:50 PM



ilegales wrote:JohnE you are a truly very helpful guy...and wonderful photographer..I started this thread just to see some setups...but its become much more than that..thanks to people like yourself..I am still in the middle of deciding about some lighting equipment....in the UK it costs too much so will probably end up shipping insome ABs to uk..Keep up your splended work JohnRegardsAlejandro

Thanks Alejandro. Your kind compliments are appreciated.

John


Jan 05, 2005 at 08:06 PM



I've fallen in love with seamless paper today.

http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/168196




Jan 05, 2005 at 09:50 PM

DragonflyDMOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Aug 03, 2004Total Posts: 2998Country: United States


Hey..for those of you that have been really creative your your studios. I would love to highlight some of them (with thepics you have) on my makeshiftphotos site. If you could EMAIL ME (the pms fill up too fast) or go tohttp://www.network54.com/Index/33048 and post some of them there.

I am hoping to be able to start highlights of photographers on the makeshiftphoto.com page with photos of their studio,gear and portfolio.

Or am I just a blarning idiot for even asking?

____________________________Josh HudsonPittsburgh and Butler, PA Wedding & Portrait PhotographerNikon Quantum Photoflexwww.photonomics.comwww.makeshiftphoto.com

www.dragonflydigitalmedia.com

Jan 06, 2005 at 01:46 PM



Dragon, I have respect for you as a poster so you can't be a total blarning idiot. Once I develop the setup shots tosome of my shoots I'll post them.




Jan 06, 2005 at 04:13 PM



Fantastic.

There are already a lot of great shots of studios on here, but I don't want to just take people's stuff, even if I do creditthem. so...let me know its ok..and I will post them up on the site along with links for everyone.



Jan 06, 2005 at 04:52 PM



John,

Every time I look at your studio photo's I seem to learn something new.

I see that your 2 background strobes both have umbrella's. I've beenusing my mini-tripods without umbrella's. I presume the umbrella's help stoplight bleeding back onto the model ?

In my basic training I never had to deal with an overhead strobelike you have in your photo. Its labelled as a hair light but I presumeit serves more than that ? What is the purpose of this type of over-head

lighting

Thanks once again,

Barrie

ps:example of uncontrolled backdrop light [url=http://bm8.net/4b/E/KS0A3145-(1).jpg]link


Jan 06, 2005 at 08:16 PM



netimages wrote:John,Every time I look at your studio photo's I seem to learn something new.I see that your 2 background strobes both have umbrella's. I've beenusing my mini-tripods without umbrella's. I presume the umbrella's help stoplight bleeding back onto the model ?

The umbrellas spread the light out over a wider area. They help flood the seamless with light. They also make it muchmore easier to have light scatter and to overlight the entire scene. That's the reason for the black curtains around theroom and between me, the model and the background lights.... they absorb or block the spill of the background lights.

In my basic training I never had to deal with an overhead strobelike you have in your photo. Its labelled as a hair light but I presumeit serves more than that ? What is the purpose of this type of over-head

lighting

That is an 8" x 18" PhotoFlex StripDome (Ithink they call it something else now.) I love how it give a nice soft light andadds that sheen to the model's hair. It also provides a bit more background separation on the darker background shots.

Thanks once again,Barrieps:example of uncontrolled backdrop light

Still a nice shot. You can very easily over-light the background and burn out the fringe areas and especially the edge ofthe model's hair EVEN with umbrellas. (I've lost count of the number of time's I blew out the background.) If you shootdigital with the capability of shooting tethered (most Canon's can), drag your computer down to the studio and shoottethered. Its the easiest way to take a few lighting shots and adjust the background lights to a point that the lighting willbe perfect.

Hope this helps.

John


Jan 06, 2005 at 09:53 PM

woody916OfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Jun 19, 2003Total Posts: 561Country: United States


Barrie,

The hair lights accects...guess what? The hair. A portrait is just missing something if it isnt used. A hair light with a bloneheaded subject against a high key BG isnt really needed. It is moreso used in low key situations where you dont want toloose the hair in the background.

Craig

Jan 06, 2005 at 09:57 PM

DukeKOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Aug 16, 2004Total Posts: 89Country: United States


JohnE,

I was curious what settings your camera was on for the shots on the first page of this thread and the shot of the blondabove?

Thanks,

____________________________

Canon Digital Rebel, Tamron AF 28-200mm f/3.8-5.6 XR, Canon 50mm f1.8, Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 EX APO IF HSM

Jan 07, 2005 at 07:34 AM



Craig makes good sense.

DukeK wrote:JohnE,I was curious what settings your camera was on for the shots on the first page of this thread and the shot of the blond above? Thanks,

That's the joy of studio work... for the most part, its consistent. Unless I'm doing some unusual lighting, my camera isset at f11@1/250.

As for the nice shot (above) that you referring to... you'll have to ask Barrie (NetImages), its his.

Best regards,John


Jan 07, 2005 at 07:54 AM

bantererOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Sep 16, 2003Total Posts: 274Country: United States


John,

I find that many photographers shoot at f8-11. Yet I also see in many posts talk about being able to lower the power onthe lights so as to be able to decrease DOF. Is this blurred background just not that much of a factor very often? Clearly itmay not be when shooting against paper but what about other backgrounds?

Thanks,Jorge

____________________________EOS 630 gathering dust, 10D, 1D2

17-40 4L, 28-70, 24-70 2.8L, 70-210, 50 1.4, 85 1.8, 70-200 2.8L IS, 2X, 180 macro, 200 1.8

Epson 9600, Encad Novajet Pro w/yarc RIP, Single G4, Dual 2 G5, 20" and 17" Cinema displays

Gitzo 1325, RRS BH-55, Gitzo 1578L/

RRS B2-Pro LLR

Jan 07, 2005 at 01:14 PM

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I shoot portraits normally at f/5.6 or f/8. If you are creating continuous lighting set ups...they rarely allow you to adjustthe power level for the amount of lumens output. If you had a strobe light (like alien bees) you could make theadjustments. The only other way to change the light levels is to move the lights farther or closer to the subject and that israrely practicle.



Jan 07, 2005 at 01:23 PM



banterer wrote:John,I find that many photographers shoot at f8-11. Yet I also see in many posts talk about being able to lower the power on the lights so as tobe able to decrease DOF. Is this blurred background just not that much of a factor very often? Clearly it may not be when shootingagainst paper but what about other backgrounds?Thanks,Jorge

Jorge,

I really like a nice, bright, sharp and clean looking image. That's where I've fould the f11 to give me the best, mostconsistent results. I typically shoot with the model at least 6 ft from the background. If the background is not OOF asmuch as I would like, I blur the background in PhotoShop.

Best regards,John


Jan 07, 2005 at 02:00 PM



Jorge,

That is a small philisophical diff between John and me. I personally find Photoshop DOF to be less pleasing than realbokeh. But then again, I don't shoot in studio often. I like shooting on location more.



Jan 07, 2005 at 02:07 PM



Joshua is very correct and makes a very good point. I have the luxury in that I'm simply bluring out the wrinkles andimperfections in my background materials. I'm not trying to blur out people, trees, etc. (which would be much moredifficult to try to blur out and make it look natural.)

John


Jan 07, 2005 at 03:54 PM

G-WizGraphixOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Aug 08, 2004Total Posts: 512Country: United States


I'll bite ....

Here is a few shots of where I work.

Joe

____________________________Joe Gannascoli -- New Baltimore, MI" Quitters Never Win ... Winners Never Quit "Canon 1D MARK IICanon EOS 20D w/ BG-E2Canon 70-200mm F/2.8LCanon 300mm F/4 LCanon 28-70mm F/2.8LCanon EF 1.4X Mark II Extender420 EX4 - Alien Bees 400's

Jan 07, 2005 at 04:37 PM



Wow! Look at all of the space AND that lighting equipment! Awesome!!

Thanks for sharing that shot.

John


Jan 07, 2005 at 06:50 PM

dennysbOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Oct 19, 2004Total Posts: 355Country: United States


G-WizGraphix,

OHHH my god, look at all the lights!

Ok photography is a hobby - so how do I convince my wife that I need this kind of equipment.

____________________________Dennys BisognoCanon EOS D60 - Canon EF 100-400mm F4.5/5.6L IS USM - EF 28-135mm F3.5/5.6 IS USM - EF 50mm 1.8 II - Speedlite 580EX - ST-E2 - Hoya Filters -

Sekonic L-358 - Alien Bee Strobe Light

Jan 07, 2005 at 08:34 PM



Joe,

Just beautiful Joe !I'm so jealous.

Now show us a resulting photo

Barrie


Jan 07, 2005 at 08:55 PM



Hi Guys,Thanks for the compliments .....

Here are a few shots from the studio ....

That set-up there was with 6 Strobes for a calendar shoot2 strobes were borrowed ...

2 - on both sides to light Background1 - Over head 6' foot softbox also lit the background1 - Softbox in front of the 6 footer ( hard to see it .. ) Hairlight1- softbox ( KEY )1- 43" Umbrella ( Key )

The pictures below are not with the 6 lights ..... various set-ups....


Jan 07, 2005 at 10:10 PM

ilsitrenOfflineImage Upload: OnRegistered: Dec 14, 2003Total Posts: 1681Country: United States


As to the DOF question, I typically shoot at f/5.6 and sometimes f/4. And like JohnE my models are typically 5 - 6 ft infront of the backdrop.

Examples on my website at www.secondfocus.com Scroll over "webBooks" and click on "Studio"

Also on my OMP profile at www.onemodelplace.com/ilsitren (member #66629)

____________________________Ian L. [email protected] www.secondfocus.comOMP Member # 66629 www.onemodelplace.com/ilsitrenCellular: 213-712-1929Southern California

Jan 07, 2005 at 11:16 PM



Here's a studio setup shot that we did for HearMuff (out of NY) using April. I tried to label all of the key elements. (We alsodid a 2nd shoot where April is lying down and we placed blank CD's on and around the model (concealing modest areas.)

And the resulting finished shot...

** Apologies to April for mislabeling her as Elizabeth in the setup shots.

John


Jan 08, 2005 at 12:12 PM



Great Set-Up John !!!Awesome shot .....

I just need to find a good price on Plexi-Glas .... I have a few more places to call ...

Joe


Jan 08, 2005 at 12:34 PM

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Hey John,

More great stuff in here !I really like your 6x8 plexi, the one I got is only 4x8 and I find it a bit restrictive...

That diffusion disk is that a Beauty disk ?What light is being used for the shoes ? {I guess its the diffusion disk... }

What really impresses me though is the black background changed to beautiful shades of gray ! I really tried to do thatwith no success. It came out all molted looking and bleh... I read in a previous post you use PS to blur. Do you use"liquify" to separate out the backdrop ?

I had a distance of 6-7 feet at f8.0 @ 1/250 and the backdrop was still very in focus ? {using a 24-70mm} though...

I also see you're hiding the left background light probably to reduce spill whereas the one one the right is not ? Why isthat ?The combo of the Octodome and the AB400 light supply more light on the camera right and thus you get that nice graytransition in the backdrop. I presume all that was planned ?

No matter what equipment you used ,,, most impressive of all though is your final result...I have to find a model to practise on now.

Also want to thank-you for your generosity and willingness to share your setup and methods in such detail.Takes a real man to do that

Barrie


Jan 08, 2005 at 01:31 PM



Hey Barrie,

netimages wrote:Hey John,More great stuff in here !I really like your 6x8 plexi, the one I got is only 4x8 and I find it a bit restrictive...

I first started out with a smaller size plexiglas. It was way too restrictive. The I added a 2nd sheet, which helped, but then I had to cloneout the seam between the two sheets. Sheesh!

That diffusion disk is that a Beauty disk ?What light is being used for the shoes ? {I guess its the diffusion disk... }

That is a 12" difusion panel that I picked up from Photoflex a log time ago. The light is an AB1600 with the modifier unit attached to thereflector pan. The difusion panel is just clamped to the fron of it to soften the light.

What really impresses me though is the black background changed to beautiful shades of gray ! I really tried to do that with no success.It came out all molted looking and bleh... I read in a previous post you use PS to blur. Do you use "liquify" to separate out the backdrop ?

It seemed that no matter what I did, I could never get a smooth look out of the background. No, I don't use liquify for this purpose... I doblur it.

I had a distance of 6-7 feet at f8.0 @ 1/250 and the backdrop was still very in focus ? {using a 24-70mm} though...

My primary studio lens is the 24-70Lf2.8.

I also see you're hiding the left background light probably to reduce spill whereas the one one the right is not ? Why is that ?

Its not being hidden on purpose. The background lights are actually half the distance between the model and the backdrop. In the setupshot, Aprl was further back. She moved forward for the shot. When I rally want to prevent the spill of light, I pull the curtails out toblock it.

The combo of the Octodome and the AB400 light supply more light on the camera right and thus you get that nice gray transition in thebackdrop. I presume all that was planned ?

Yes, it is planned. I take several shots of the background and display them on the computer (I shoot tethered) and then adjust thelights to get the effect on the background that I want. (I do all of this while the model is in makeup.

No matter what equipment you used ,,, most impressive of all though is your final result...

Maybe not in keeping with the purist point of view... but in my opinion, the post production/final touch up work is just as important asthe pre-planning and shooting.

I have to find a model to practise on now.Also want to thank-you for your generosity and willingness to share your setup and methods in such detail.Takes a real man to do that Barrie

My pleasure. I hope it helps.

John


Jan 08, 2005 at 02:38 PM



JohnE, how do you light for the setup pictures? I have an impossible time trying to show the setups. The model area istoo well lit and the rest of the room tends to be too dark (in comparison even with some lights on).




Jan 08, 2005 at 03:08 PM



{quote]My pleasure. I hope it helps.John

John , it sure does help !

I just plugged in my firewire connection and I'm going tethered

as of today Instant feedback. This should help a lot.All the tests I have been doing we're viewed hours later or the next day.By that time I had forgotton what was done.I'll be using a small cube PC for the time being before picking up a portable.<>Is there any special screen properties I should be aware of for my specialized camera portable PC ? Or any other camera related properties the portable shouldhave ?

This is starting to get expensive.Someone pls send $'s.

thksBarrie


Jan 08, 2005 at 05:16 PM






Jan 09, 2005 at 02:28 PM

ilegalesOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Nov 19, 2003Total Posts: 226Country: United Kingdom


SQUID - Thats an interesting setup in the first picture - As you are using quite a limited space ...

Whats the space required for the setup photo.. I am guessing about 6 x 10 foot?

Are you using 2 800 and a 400 for backlight ??

on a iso 200 whats the lowest and hightest F stop you can get on the camera..in that space in the first picture..

I have a space of about 10 x 13-15 foot and still deciding about 2 ab 400s or 2 ab 800 or a combo of 1x400 and 1x800..

____________________________http://www.volny.cz/hyamhttp://www.volny.cz/photopixCanon 1D, 100mm macro 2.8, 70-200 IS

Feel free to edit/repost any picture I upload here.

Jan 09, 2005 at 05:14 PM

Terry RichmondOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Mar 10, 2002Total Posts: 171Country: United States


Nicholas (Squid Nick),

What kind of flooring is that in your setup picture. If it is carpet, how do you keep the seamless paper from wrinkling,bending, tearing, etc with models walking on it? Do you have something hard under it?

Terry

____________________________

1D MkII, D30, 17-35 f/2.8 L, 28-70 f/2.8 L, 70-200 f/2.8 L IS, 300 f/4 L IS, 1.4xII Extender, 500D, 550EX

Jan 09, 2005 at 07:22 PM



Just a small update.Hopefully others can generate idea's from this.

My previous backdrop system was capable of only handling 1 seamless.This new setup allows for two.

Here's the old system.

And here's the new dual system.A simple idea but it works.

The entire setup again {with updates} is here:http://bm8.net/my_studio/my_studio.htm

Barrie

Edit/update:

Well you know the rest of the story.I can add a third !{no more masts though... ?}

Edited by netimages on Jan 10, 2005 at 10:54 PM GMT (Reason: 3rd roll...)


Jan 10, 2005 at 09:34 PM

itdphotoOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Jan 03, 2005Total Posts: 79Country: United States


Awesome stuff...I love this thread!I will be settingup my first "real" studio in a few weeks and have gotten some great ideas! I will post pics of my studio assoon as it is setup.

Until then....POST MORE PICS!!!!!!!!!!!

____________________________Jason Murphywww.ITDPhoto.com

Jan 10, 2005 at 09:45 PM



Squid Nick wrote:JohnE, how do you light for the setup pictures? I have an impossible time trying to show the setups. The model area is too well lit andthe rest of the room tends to be too dark (in comparison even with some lights on).

Nicholas,

Nothing special. the lights are already set up for the shoot. All I do is step back while Kortney is working with the model(doing touch up), open the zoom to get the widest angle and I shoot. Nothing more.

John


Jan 11, 2005 at 09:13 AM



netimages wrote:John , it sure does help !I just plugged in my firewire connection and I'm going tetheredas of today Instant feedback. This should help a lot.All the tests I have been doing we're viewed hours later or the next day.By that time I had forgotton what was done.I'll be using a small cube PC for the time being before picking up a portable.

Is there any special screen properties I should be aware of for my specialized camera portable PC ? Or any other camera relatedproperties the portable should have ?

This is starting to get expensive.Someone pls send $'s.thksBarrie

Hey Barrie,

Welcome to the world of tethered shooting. Now watch as the quality of your work improves. Its so much better when youcan see and evaluate your work on a large screen as you go. There's also no doubt about whether or not you got "theshot".

I don't have any special set up on my computer or camera for thethered shooting. I just plug the camera in and I launchthe Canon software. Viola!

Enjoy!

John


Jan 11, 2005 at 09:17 AM

netslackerOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Dec 01, 2004Total Posts: 34Country: United States


Hey John,

Another thanks for posting your setup pics! Great stuff. Have a question. If say I buy the bees lights and want to usePhotoflex light gear (soft boxes and such). Do I need to purchase a special ring to get them to work together? What canyou tell me about this?

Thanks

Stephen

____________________________20D 17-40 24-70L 2.8100 Macro50 1.870-200L 2.8 IS400L 5.685 1.81.4X

Bunch of other stuff

Jan 11, 2005 at 11:01 PM

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Christian SOfflineImage Upload: OnRegistered: Nov 26, 2003Total Posts: 656Country: United States


The Photoflex Q39 (white interior) uses this speed ring. Hope this helps.

____________________________Christian Sawyer, Dundee OregonD2H (X2), 17-55, 70-200, 300f/4, 60f/2.8, 50 f/1.4,TC-14E II,SB 800 (X2),GITZO G1325, RRS BH-55,Wimberley Sidekick

Jan 11, 2005 at 11:38 PM



netslacker wrote:Hey John,Another thanks for posting your setup pics! Great stuff. Have a question. If say I buy the bees lights and want to use Photoflex light gear(soft boxes and such). Do I need to purchase a special ring to get them to work together? What can you tell me about this?ThanksStephen

Stephen,

Order the Balcar ring for the PhotoFlex to Alien Bees.

I belive ChrstianS is also correct. The White Lightning rings also fit the Alien Bees.

John


Jan 12, 2005 at 12:04 AM



white lightening and alien bees are not only compatible connectors...they are the SAME connectors, since they are thesame manufacterer.



Jan 12, 2005 at 05:05 AM

nocity4meOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Oct 24, 2002Total Posts: 256Country: United States


If you go to the Photoflex website there is a specific chart that tells you which of their speed rings works with the differentphotoflex boxes/domes. The info you are looking for is on page 20 of 41 in the photoflex product catalog pdf. Here's thelink:http://www.photoflex.com/photoflex/index.html

Hope this helps.

____________________________Tim PaganoThe only difference between a pro and an amateur is that the pro knows how to fix his mistakes much better.

Jan 12, 2005 at 03:14 PM

Lance_KOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Oct 14, 2003Total Posts: 935Country: United States


Thanks all for sharing. Very impressive. Would love to assist to anyone of ya!Lance

____________________________Lance KCanon G5

www.ionimagery.com

Jan 12, 2005 at 10:39 PM

netslackerOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Dec 01, 2004Total Posts: 34Country: United States


Thanks for the info John and everyone.

Stephen

____________________________20D 17-40 24-70L 2.8100 Macro50 1.870-200L 2.8 IS400L 5.685 1.81.4X

Bunch of other stuff

Jan 13, 2005 at 12:45 AM



Lets not let this thread die

Ok, yet another studio update.This time I added a boom setup.

Its a long story but finally ended up with this.I spent 2 hours on another solution which didn't include the newly acquired boom. It didn't quite work out so I went withthis.

The new boom setup.

Once again the whole setup is here.http://bm8.net/my_studio/my_studio.htm


Jan 13, 2005 at 07:08 PM

bandsawOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Dec 10, 2004Total Posts: 243Country: United States


200TH post!

____________________________Jason Haddix23Cypress, CA Product photographer, photo retoucherColor correction printlab, and for Option magazine

http://www.surfacestudios.comBodies: Canon D60Lenses: Canon 100mm f/2, 50mm f/1.4, Sigma 28-80mm f/4.5-5.6, Zenitar 15mm FisheyeLighting: Profoto acute2 2400w pack, 3- acute/D4 heads, acute ringflash, 2- Profoto 4x3' softboxes. Pocket Wizard Pro's. Mathews C-stands.Printer: Epson Photo stylus R800 Soon to be bought: Profoto beauty dish, Avenger/Bogen heavy duty backround supports, Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L, softlight reflector(ringflash), some various light modifiers

and backrounds.

Jan 13, 2005 at 08:46 PM



netimages wrote:Lets not let this thread die Ok, yet another studio update. This time I added a boom setup.Its a long story but finally ended up with this.I spent 2 hours on another solution which didn't include the newly acquired boom. It didn't quite work out so I went with this.

Now THAT is one impressive boom and stand! I'm envious. Yeow!

John


Jan 13, 2005 at 11:07 PM



JohnE wrote:Now THAT is one impressive boom and stand! I'm envious. Yeow!John

Haha, and that made my day.Yours looked quite large also ?<>In any case it passed the "tightening test"...<>I was wondering , maybe I should use a longer half-dome to cover a bit more area ? Was also thinking that 10 lbs of weight will never be enough , how much does it take ? 20, 30 lbs ?thks

Barrie

ps: I guess the effect here is much more subtle that a "real" hair light ?


Jan 13, 2005 at 11:53 PM



netimages,

Large yes, but not a tough as I would like. Its a few years old and it won't tighten down enough (plastic peices) to holdthe large softboxes in some of the strange attitudes I put them in.

I have a 10 pound weight block that bolts to the end of the boom and I have another 15 pound wieght bag down on thebottom of the stand, just for safety.

As for size, I think its the perfect size for a single person hairlight.

John


Jan 14, 2005 at 09:54 AM



Ok boys..whip them out and see whose boom is bigger and be done with it!!!



Jan 14, 2005 at 10:12 AM

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MORE please.


Jan 15, 2005 at 08:52 PM

darrenwhitleyOfflineImage Upload: OnRegistered: May 17, 2004Total Posts: 252Country: United States


This is the same speedring Balcar, White Lightning and Alien Bees use as well. I bought two used from Lensandrepro inNew York City for about half the new price.

____________________________Darren WhitleyHardware: Canon EOS 1D, 1D Mark II, 10D & 20D, White Lightning UZ800, Bogen Autopole system

Software: Photoshop CS, Extensis MaskPro, ACDSee, Photo Mechanic

Jan 15, 2005 at 10:12 PM



JohnE saidIf the background is not OOF as much as I would like, I blur the background in PhotoShop.

JohnE, Would you mind walking me through the steps you use to blur the background in PhotoShop.

Thanks,

____________________________


Jan 15, 2005 at 10:54 PM



DukeK wrote:JohnE, Would you mind walking me through the steps you use to blur the background in PhotoShop. Thanks,

Using the lasso tool in photoshop, roughly/quickly draw a line around the area that you want blurred,staying close to themodel. Set the feather to 10 pixels. Create a new layer via Copy Layer. From the Filter menu, choose Blur, then GaussianBlur, set the radius to 80 and press OK. You will notice that some of the blur will go into unwanted areas (i.e., the model'sskin or clothes.) Now select the Eraser tool, make it large enough with a soft edge. Go around and erase the bluring in theunwanted areas.

Hope this helps.

John


Jan 16, 2005 at 06:25 AM

hanlombaOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Nov 17, 2004Total Posts: 113Country: United States


Okay...so I don't really have much of a studio...I kinda cart my lights around the house or a location to whatever looksgood. Here are a few setup shots and a few pics:

I have 1 Alien Bee 800, 1 Alien Bee 400, a large softbox, a few umbrellas, and a couple light stands.

Jan 17, 2005 at 01:43 PM

cosfrogOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Sep 17, 2003Total Posts: 154Country: N/A


It's been awhile since I visited this post, glad to see it is still going (lots of useful info). On the post that John E put upabout the curtains...I found that Ikea now sells the rail system along with the hooks (or clamps) to attach to your curtain.Don't know if is as robust as a hospital one but I am to try it out because of cost and I hate waiting for mail order items.

I'll post some photos of my photo cubicle that used to be my garage a bit later.

____________________________Jeff DavidsonCanon 1DMKII (2), 10D24-70 f/2.8L, 70-200 f/2.8L, 100-400 f/4L, 50 f/1.4, 85 f/1.8, 550ex, 580ex, Photogenic strobes, softboxes, and 2 rubber duckiesOMP Member#77283

www.cosmicfrogsphotography.com

Jan 17, 2005 at 03:18 PM

darrenwhitleyOfflineImage Upload: OnRegistered: May 17, 2004Total Posts: 252Country: United States


Here's a very inexpenive background system you can put in if you have some Bob Villa-bility.

Here's a link to the gallery showing the photos. Due to security on Sportsshooter.com I cannot link directly to them.

http://www.sportsshooter.com/darrenwhitley/trapeze/

Edited by darrenwhitley on Jan 21, 2005 at 04:50 AM GMT

____________________________Darren WhitleyHardware: Canon EOS 1D, 1D Mark II, 10D & 20D, White Lightning UZ800, Bogen Autopole system

Software: Photoshop CS, Extensis MaskPro, ACDSee, Photo Mechanic

Jan 17, 2005 at 09:06 PM

MotoedOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Jan 18, 2003Total Posts: 145Country: United States


JohnE wrote:DukeK wrote:JohnE, Would you mind walking me through the steps you use to blur the background in PhotoShop. Thanks,

Using the lasso tool in photoshop, roughly/quickly draw a line around the area that you want blurred,staying close to the model. Set thefeather to 10 pixels. Create a new layer via Copy Layer. From the Filter menu, choose Blur, then Gaussian Blur, set the radius to 80 andpress OK. You will notice that some of the blur will go into unwanted areas (i.e., the model's skin or clothes.) Now select the Eraser tool,make it large enough with a soft edge. Go around and erase the bluring in the unwanted areas.

Hope this helps.

John

I have been using the Lens Blur to get a more natural style DOF.

Link to CreativePro Tutorial - new this wee

____________________________----------------Ed Hidden

-----------------Canon 10D - 50mm F1.8 Sigma 17-35mm F2.8-4

Canon PowerShot G2

Jan 19, 2005 at 02:27 PM



I have been using the Lens Blur to get a more natural style DOF.

Cool, I'll have to check that out. Thanks.

____________________________


Jan 19, 2005 at 08:24 PM

ReptileFXOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Jan 19, 2005Total Posts: 4Country: Netherlands


I'm wondering, why do I see so many ppl in this topic using Alienbees.Are they "better" than Elinchrom or Bowens (or even Falcon Eyes) ?

I live in Europe and I want to get a proper studio setup. Seeing those Alienbees setups makes me wonder.

Can anyone tell me if it makes any difference what I get.

Thanks

Jan 20, 2005 at 12:40 AM



people buy alien bees because theyre a great deal for the money. i was thinking about buying (2)400watt lights forbackground, kicker or hair lights. personally i like Profoto. Speedotron(blackline) is also very nice.


http://www.surfacestudios.comBodies: Canon D60Lenses: Canon 100mm f/2, 50mm f/1.4, Sigma 28-80mm f/4.5-5.6, Zenitar 15mm FisheyeLighting: Profoto acute2 2400w pack, 3- acute/D4 heads, acute ringflash, 2- Profoto 4x3' softboxes. Pocket Wizard Pro's. Mathews C-stands.Printer: Epson Photo stylus R800 Soon to be bought: Profoto beauty dish, Avenger/Bogen heavy duty backround supports, Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L, softlight reflector(ringflash), some various light modifiers and

backrounds.

Jan 20, 2005 at 01:45 AM

Ed te PasOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: May 23, 2003Total Posts: 509Country: Netherlands


ReptileFX wrote:I'm wondering, why do I see so many ppl in this topic using Alienbees.Are they "better" than Elinchrom or Bowens (or even Falcon Eyes) ?

I live in Europe and I want to get a proper studio setup. Seeing those Alienbees setups makes me wonder.

Can anyone tell me if it makes any difference what I get.

ThanksYou are new FM-er. Alien Bees are semi pro stuff rather cheap in US. But for us Europeans very expensive because cost offreight (same price as the unit). Stick to Elinchrom, wonderful units and their Digital BX series very reasonable priced.Moreover Alien Bees advertise with so called effective watt/sec. Don't be fooled. These are not the w/s Elinchrom uses.

____________________________Canon 1Ds; canon 50/1,4 usm; canon 85/1,2L; canon 24-70/2,8 L USM; canon 70-200/2.8 L IS; 2x 550 EX + ST-E2;Stofen Omnibounce; Lowepro Nature Backpack; CustomBracket. Sekonic L358, PocketWizards multimax. Elinchrom lights.Photoflex, Chimara softbox/umbr/standsGitzo reporter, Bogen/Manfrotto monopod

Software: Capture ONE PRO; Photoshop; Breezebrowser; Dreamweaver MX2004; Autocad for Vectorgraphics

Jan 20, 2005 at 03:40 AM

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Ed te Pas wrote:[You are new FM-er. Alien Bees are semi pro stuff rather cheap in US. But for us Europeans very expensive because cost of freight (sameprice as the unit). Stick to Elinchrom, wonderful units and their Digital BX series very reasonable priced. Moreover Alien Bees advertisewith so called effective watt/sec. Don't be fooled. These are not the w/s Elinchrom uses.

Weird, because I can get a four flash-set Alienbees set for 1600 euros (including shipping, customs and taxes).A simple Elinchrom set (2 flashes, small softbox) costs 1400 euros.How about Bowens. I just can't wait to setup my own studio

Jan 20, 2005 at 07:47 AM

griffitgOfflineImage Upload: OnRegistered: Aug 12, 2004Total Posts: 217Country: United States


I use Alienbees and find that they work fine for the portrait work I do. The studio owners I know use White-Lighting whichis the parent company of Alienbees. The strobes work well and are more affordable than many of the other brands. Theway I see it is, if a guy and build a brand new studio with all the bells and whistles and he uses White-Lighting instead ofBroncolor or Elinchrom, what's the need?

In the end, these products are tools, and until you start having customers as what brand of lighting you use, don't get tooworked up about it.

____________________________Canon 20DCanon D6070-200mm 2.8 L24-70mm 2.8 L580EX Speedlight

3 - Alien Bees B800

Jan 20, 2005 at 01:47 PM

gshannonOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Jan 16, 2005Total Posts: 1Country: Australia


OK.

Thanks for making me contemplate spending money on a studio setup

I've just come across one for sale in Australia; the description is as follows:

"bowens esprit 11 500/500 hd kit 60x30 sbox so x03 ho 5 studio light kit"

I'm guessing this means... two 500w lights; a 60x30 softbox... I do not understand what "so x03 ho 5" means though...any help?

Would this be an adequate setup to start off with?

____________________________EOS 10D; 16-35mm f/2.8 USM; 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5 USM; 50mm f/1.8; 70-200 f/2.8 EX

HSM

Jan 21, 2005 at 01:26 AM



gshannon wrote:I've just come across one for sale in Australia; the description is as follows:

"bowens esprit 11 500/500 hd kit 60x30 sbox so x03 ho 5 studio light kit"

I'm guessing this means... two 500w lights; a 60x30 softbox... I do not understand what "so x03 ho 5" means though... any help?

Would this be an adequate setup to start off with?

I'm looking at that kit too. I'm into studio work (yet), but some friends of mine are. If I get such a set, I will get a biggersoftbox too.But I think 2 lights will be a great start with. I might consider the Elinchrom kit instead.

Jan 22, 2005 at 01:15 AM



well its not set up ....but this is my studio in a case.


http://www.surfacestudios.comBodies: Canon D60Lenses: Canon 100mm f/2, 50mm f/1.4, Sigma 28-80mm f/4.5-5.6, Zenitar 15mm FisheyeLighting: Profoto acute2 2400w pack, 3- acute/D4 heads, acute ringflash, 2- Profoto 4x3' softboxes. Pocket Wizard Pro's. Mathews C-stands.Printer: Epson Photo stylus R800 Soon to be bought: Profoto beauty dish, Avenger/Bogen heavy duty backround supports, Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L, softlight reflector(ringflash), some various light modifiers

and backrounds.

Jan 22, 2005 at 04:13 AM



bandsaw wrote:well its not set up ....but this is my studio in a case.

Sigh... my kingdom for Profoto! Awesome lighting. Would love the Profoto4 system... fully adjustable lighting right from your Appleportable.

John


Jan 22, 2005 at 09:11 PM



and JohnE said:

"Sigh... my kingdom for Profoto! Awesome lighting. Would love the Profoto4 system... fully adjustable lighting right fromyour Apple portable."

I will add to that wish list with a Profoto giant reflector!


Jan 22, 2005 at 09:51 PM

Lance_KOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Oct 14, 2003Total Posts: 935Country: United States


bandsaw wrote:well its not set up ....but this is my studio in a case.

How many watts are those?

____________________________Lance KCanon G5

www.ionimagery.com

Jan 23, 2005 at 12:42 AM

Chris SamplesOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Oct 04, 2004Total Posts: 58Country: United States


To Dragonfly,Is there a way to get in without spyware? It is telling me to get the full benefit I have to install GAIN software to enter thesite. GAIN software is one of the hardest spyware to uninstall. I love to read forums and such, but without spyware. Itmight just be a tracker trying to get me to install it.

Chris

____________________________Chris 10D, too many lenses to list.

My website is at http://www.graphic-images.net

Jan 23, 2005 at 02:04 PM



This was the "studio" for today' shoot:


Jan 23, 2005 at 11:15 PM



ilsitren wrote:This was the "studio" for today' shoot:

Hey man,

Just curious.How did you handle that mirror in th background ?Or did you cover it ?Reflections are always a bitch.thks.Barrie


Jan 24, 2005 at 07:16 AM



Barrie:

I just try to be careful about my reflection by shootng off to the sides, high or low and tight. Often I hide my reflection'behind' the person I am shooting or I will get behind another piece of equipment. And with the strobes, I move them alittle further out, also keeping them out of the frame and more parallel to the subject.

The gym in the above photo is difficult becuase it is mirrored and all walls . And yes I carry a roll of black seamless andgaffers tape with me in case I do want to just cover a section.


Jan 24, 2005 at 08:20 AM

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Show us YOUR Studio

ferdiOfflineImage Upload: Off Registered: Mar 17, 2004Total Posts: 866Country: United States


Thanks to this thread and all those who have been posting here, I am now a proud owner of,220V B1600 AlienBees B1600-220 V Deep Space Black B1600 x2 220V B800 AlienBees B800-220 V Deep Space Black B800 x2 RR1PACK Wireless Remote Package x1 22R/DS22R 22-inch Pan Reflector with optional diffusion sock x1 LB1 Boom Arm Attachment x1 CB1 AlienBees Carrying Bag x4 FT10MM 10mm Flashtube x2 FT12MM 12mm Flashtube x2 HG4X Four Honeycomb Grids x1 LG4X Four-Channel Wired Remote x1 LS1100 Backlight Stand x1 LS3900 13-foot Heavy Duty Stand x3 OB47 47” Octabox (with LGSR) x1 SB3060 Giant Softbox (with LGSR) x1

BASTARDS!!! hehehehe

____________________________FerdinandSan Jose, CA10D20D *SOLD*1Ds Mark II *on order*16-35 f/2.8, 24-70 f/2.8, 70-200 f/2.8 IS, 180 f/3.5L Macro, 2xTC, Sekonic L-558R, 550EX, CP-E3, Bogen 3021BPro, Bogen 486RC2, Stroboframe Pro-RL, Off Shoe Cord 2, TN-80, etc. B1600 AlienBees x2, B800 AlienBees x2, RR1PACK Wireless Remote Package x1, 22R/DS22R 22-inch Pan Reflector with optional diffusion sock x1, LB1 Boom ArmAttachment x1, CB1 AlienBees Carrying Bag x4, FT10MM 10mm Flashtube x2, FT12MM 12mm Flashtube x2, HG4X Four Honeycomb Grids x1, LG4X Four-Channel Wired Remote

x1, LS1100 Backlight Stand x1, LS3900 13-foot Heavy Duty Stand x3, OB47 47” Octabox (with LGSR) x1, SB3060 Giant Softbox (with LGSR) x1

Jan 24, 2005 at 05:29 PM



Hey Ferdinand:

Now you can go spend even more money; just go buy a weighted bag for each light stand so they won't fall over andbreak something. There is always a way to spend more money even on simple things.


Jan 24, 2005 at 09:06 PM



I second Ian... always use weightbags to stabilize light stands with boom arms. Other than that... CONTRATULATIONS.

Now... go take some shots and post 'em.

John


Jan 24, 2005 at 10:45 PM



errr I can't take shots they are 220v lights :P die me....



Jan 25, 2005 at 01:40 AM



Oops...So, did you buy this package off Ebay or someplace and didn't notice the 220v part?

I have almost been burnt a few times buying from Ebay...luckily I was able to figure a way out of it. Recently I waslooking for a cheap strobe kit, In the mix of looking at a ton of them, I came across one set that was 200ws as opposed tothe 110ws strobes in most of the kits. I jumped on the BUY IT NOW only to later realize that these were HOT LIGHTS thatjust looked like strobes...200watts, not watt seconds. I contacted the seller and we agreed that I could have one of hisstrobe packages instead. Lucky for me he had strobes to substitute, and lucky I noticed.

Anyway...sorry to hear that...maybe there is some sort of converter you can get


Jan 25, 2005 at 01:52 AM



No no I got knew what I was going for I needed it to be 220v cause I plan to shoot mostly overseas. So for back here Iwill need to get a step up transformer. But ultimately I think I would like to setup a studio in Asia.



Jan 25, 2005 at 02:13 AM



John, Ian, thanks I will work on the sandbags once I have relocated. Its too expensive to be carting sands overseas as mycheck in lugage

The studio work you guys put out really inspires me to getting these lights and trying my hands on studio lighting, I willdefinitely post when I can



Jan 25, 2005 at 02:18 AM

shatterkissOfflineImage Upload: OffRegistered: Sep 30, 2004Total Posts: 309Country: United States


Ferdi -

Check out http://www.adorama.com/PFWB.html?searchinfo=photoflex%20weight&item_no=1 as a better option thansandbags. These are what I use, since my entire kit needs to be able to travel pretty easily as well. They store flat andempty, then you fill them with either sand or water once you're on-site, then empty them again when you're doneshooting. I just hang 'em from the ends of my booms or off the back leg of light stands.

____________________________Simon A. Gerzina Photography

Nikon D100, F100, F3HPMamiya 645AF, RB-67Rolleiflex TLR, Leica C3PocketWizard Plus kit

Dynalite lighting, mixed monolights

Jan 25, 2005 at 07:19 AM



shatterkiss wrote:Check out http://www.adorama.com/PFWB.html?searchinfo=photoflex%20weight&item_no=1 as a better option than sandbags. Theseare what I use, since my entire kit needs to be able to travel pretty easily as well. They store flat and empty, then you fill them witheither sand or water once you're on-site, then empty them again when you're done shooting. I just hang 'em from the ends of my boomsor off the back leg of light stands.

Hey, I just ordered that yesterday from Canoga Camera. $12... great price! (...and about $6 less expensive then B&H.)

John


Jan 25, 2005 at 08:38 AM



ferdi wrote:John, Ian, thanks I will work on the sandbags once I have relocated. Its too expensive to be carting sands overseas as my check in lugage

The studio work you guys put out really inspires me to getting these lights and trying my hands on studio lighting, I will definitely postwhen I can

Thanks Ferdinand. I'm tickled to be of help.

John


Jan 25, 2005 at 08:40 AM



Thanks Simon, John The AB Boom actually comes with a 11lbs. counter weight, so I will be okay there I think.

John I look forward to more of your work, you haven't posted any for a while now, so when's the next one? I need moreinspiration!



Jan 25, 2005 at 11:04 AM



"how you hold reflectors, flags, and gobos"

I use light stands, booms. clamps etc. Get a print catalog from Calumet (ww.calumetphoto.com) and check the lightingsuppliers equipment websites for ideas like PhotoFlex.


Jan 25, 2005 at 01:54 PM

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