GETTING STARTED WITH CREATING LIGHT
Day 1: Gathering Your Gear - Starting Simple!
Off-Camera-Flash (OCF) can seem very intimidating, and the fear of learning (and investing) in a new skill is real.
The great thing is, you can dive into OCF at a reasonable cost and with minimal gear. Start small and expand your setup over time and as needed.
All you need to get started creating light is one flash, a trigger system, and one modifier.
Before we dive into the specifics of OCF gear, take a moment to watch this introductory video. It will give you a visual overview of the equipment we'll be discussing.
Flash Unit: Your primary light source for OCF.
I recommend starting with a versatile speedlite, suitable for both indoor and outdoor shooting. Whether you dream of a studio or not, a basic speedlite is indispensable in various photography genres.
Recommended: Consider the budget-friendly Yongnuo Flash system when paired with a compatible transmitter, available for under $110. Ensure compatibility with your camera model.
Personal Preference: I personally use the Flashpoint system from Adorama (also known as Godox). It is within my price range and offers a variety of modifiers. If budget was not an issue for me I would use the Profoto brand as they have a reputation for customer service, ease of use and reliability, however there modifiers are quite expensive.
Triggers:
These devices facilitate communication between your camera and flash, triggering the flash to fire. You have a few options:
Camera's Pop-Up Flash: If you are on a tight budget and your camera has a pop-up flash, you may be able to use it to fire your OCF. My camera does not have that option so I have never used this technique, but here is a link to a post explaining how to do it.
Sync Cord: You could buy a sync cord. These cords come in various lengths and connect your camera to the flash. I personally dislike using these because they limit movement, pull out of the camera easily and are a tripping hazard for you and your subject (or children wandering through your space).
Wireless Remote System: My preferred method. You'll need both a transmitter and a receiver. Many options are compatible with DSLR cameras.
Budget-Friendly: The Yongnuo system offers affordability and reliability.
Advanced: For those seeking more features, consider Pocketwizards or the Flashpoint/Godox R2 wireless triggers.
Built-in Receivers: Some flashes come with built-in receivers, eliminating the need for a separate receiver. For instance, my Flashpoint Streaklight 360 and Godox V1 have this feature.
Umbrella Bracket
An essential piece of equipment that significantly improves the quality of your light. It ensures your flash points directly at the center of your modifier. I recommend the Glow S-Type Bowens mount bracket, available at Adorama.
Compatibility: Ensure the bracket fits your flash's head. There are options for both round and rectangular flash heads.
Light Stand: While perhaps the least exciting piece of gear, a sturdy light stand is crucial. Look for models with metal knobs and air cushion segments to ensure reliability.
Research: Spend time researching stands within your budget, as this piece of equipment bears the weight of your flash and modifier.
Modifier:
Modifiers come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, each serving different purposes. For beginners, I suggest starting with a shoot-thru umbrella (as shown here) . These are cost-effective and ideal for creating beautiful light.
Future Lessons: I'll delve deeper into modifier selection in a later lesson.
Putting it All Together
Setting up your gear is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
Attach the receiver to your speedlite's hotshoe foot and lock it into place. Do not over overtighten.
Secure the umbrella bracket to the light stand, tightening the bottom knob.
Connect your flash to the umbrella bracket, ensuring a firm fit without over-tightening.
Insert the umbrella shaft through the mount and tighten the knob to prevent it from sliding out.
Adjust the light stand to your desired height and tighten the knobs (avoid over-tightening to prevent damage).
Congratulations, your basic setup is complete! Now, treat yourself to some chocolate.
Keep it Simple
Investing in OCF gear is manageable compared to acquiring a new lens or camera body. Your flash system opens up endless possibilities for controlling light in your photography.
Recommended Products
Here's a list of the products I use, specific to Canon and Flashpoint/Godox systems. Ensure compatibility with your camera brand:
Flash: Canon Speedlite 580EX II , Flashpoint Streaklight 360 WS flash, Flashpoint Zoom Li-on x R2/Godox V1.
Modifiers: 33" Shoot-Through Umbrella, Westcott 32-Inch Umbrella, Glow Foldable Beauty Dish
Light Stand: Westcott 8’Seek highly-rated stands with metal knobs and air cushion segments.
Speedlight Bracket: Glow S-Type Bowens Mount Bracket
Eneloop Batteries for speed lite flash.
What’s Next?
So gather your gear, and get familiar familiar with it. In the next post we will explore using your flash and triggers on manual mode.
Happy learning!