HELP - Portrait Lighting Outside!

Hi all!

First let me say that I'm totally unexperienced when it come to studio lighting, but after spending many hours on the web browsing places like this, reading tutorials and watching videos, I believe I'm starting to understand the basics...

I've been studying this issue because I'm planing on expanding my photographic activity to include portraits. Initially I was considering starting with a basic studio setup (4 x 800ws flash units, one big softbox and two umbrellas), but recently I discovered I need something to work outside in broad day light.

Considering that budget is a big concern, which setup would you advice for shooting up to small groups (full body - 4 adults) in the outside? If you can please include suggestions for setups with and without power supply, and don't forget to mention how powerful do you think the heads need to be.

Thanks in advance

Alex.

Have you tried shooting outside before? Have you tried to shoot with a reflector? They are a lot less then flashes!

You can pose your subjects just under a tree, in the shade, with open sky to one side or their front to get some nice light. You can also use a camera mounted flash gun to help fill in the light too. I set my Canon 580EX anywhere from -1 to -2 stops. Fills in the shadows under their eyes without blowing out their faces.

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You do not have to spend much for bright light outdoor sessions. Well, all these big tents, diffusers and reflectors can be quite expensive, also.
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Vlad

Thanks. I've worked in the outside before and although I acknowledge the value of reflectores and subtractive lighting I'm not sure I can manage that way. Using a multiple speedlight flash setup is another option, but I definitely am equating other alternatives such a small kit with power generator and two heads.

Cheers.