Hooked on that site... great deal of information. Taking my flash OFF CAMERA! Who'da thunk it? Well, most of you obviously.
Anyway... I like the idea of using my FL-36 flash (Guide #36) flash off camera for portrait work, especially with an umbrella and/or wall bounce. But looking for a second light, I can get an SB-24 pretty cheap and use a PC cord or remote to set them both off. Instead of buying expensive AlienBees or whatever -- that Strobist knows his stuff.
BUT...
There is a kit of Square Perfect lights on ebay: //cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=280154344900&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=018
That are no AlienBees or 300ws lights, but they are equivalent to the light available from the SB-24, but have the benefit of changeable bulbs, continuous power (no batteries) and come with the other gear as well.
I know from reading here and otherwheres that people love the 300ws lights... BUT for close up portrait work, I'm having a hard time seeing a downside to this kit (except for no umbrellas). I still have my FL-36 flash for quick portability and lighting.
Is 300ws just some standard that someone picked out and like Canon/Nikon bias, really has no basis in reality? Or (and there may be) is there some real hard data that says 160ws lights are less bright than your fridge light?
Keep in mind, I have no intentions of shooting full body modelling shots. Just simple close up portraits, mostly at schools and churches.
If anyone has used these lights, their input would be especially appreciated!
Thanks!
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