In case, you are getting paid for photography, it is your responsibility to know how to work in different lighting solutions. Best way to learn flash photography is to continually indulge and experiment with it.
The best way to get started is to build a small, affordable photo studio at home. You can begin learning the tricks of the trade by photographing kids and family at home.
The following are some tips to set up an affordable photo studio on rent at home:
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Light source
The first task is to decide on what light to go with. An inexpensive way to get into studio lighting is to use continuous warm (fluorescent) and hot (tungsten) light. You can purchase 2 light stands featuring umbrellas and continuous light for around $100, in total.
If you are interested in continuous light, it is better to go for it after mastering flash photography. This way you can know what exactly is required and to get the best out of your equipment. Many high-end studios make use of continuous light since they can maneuver the light exactly how they want it. Professional studio photographers need consistency and precision. But for novice studio makers, this need not be an issue.
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Using speed lights
Speed lights or speed lights are compact flash strobes which can be used for off-camera and on-camera setups. In case you own a mirrorless high-end camera or a DSLR, it will feature a hot-shoe on top, which is designed to be used with speed lights.
In case of an on-camera setup, you must mount a speed light directly on the camera and you can use the flash head in different configurations to bounce the light. In case of an off-camera setup, you can take the speed light off the camera and mount it on a light stand to be used away from a camera. This configuration can be used for building your first studio.
The good thing about speed lights is that they pack enough power to serve daily needs from lighting a single person to a group of persons. They can also be expanded from single to multiple units.
All major DSLR manufacturers make speed lights which are proprietary to their cameras. Nikon, Sony, and Canon provide various options for speed lights from basic to high-end models used in commercial photography.
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Light stand, adapters, and umbrellas
Just like cameras, several kinds of light stands are available in the market to select from. For triggering speed lights in controlled scenarios, the most affordable light stands can be selected.
Next, you will require an umbrella adapter which will sit on the light stand- it will hold both umbrella and speed light (to make soft the light that emerges from your flash).
The third product is the umbrella itself, which comes very cheap.
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Background support system
It is not mandatory if you can put in some extra work. You may use a colored muslin or white sheet for your background, to hang on your walls. However, in case, you want something portable and nice; it is wise to invest in a good background support system.
There are a host of issues to consider with a background support system. The first decision is to choose between muslin or paper background. Paper is smooth and cheap and can be replaced easily when it gets dirty. No need to worry about ironing and wrinkles. But it takes much space.
These are some of the basic tools to set up a studio. After some time, after gaining experience, you can explore more advanced equipment.
