How do I start to shoot off camera flash portraits?
5 months ago
Hey folks, I want to start taking some portrait shots (nothing serious, just family, daughter + partner and also some friends to update their LinkedIn etc) but with flash.
I can take 2 routes regarding the device:
Samsung NX 1/ 500 or Lumix S5
For NX500 / 1 I have the following suitable lenses: 50-150 S / 85 / 16-50 S / 45
and the following flash units: 2 x Metz 44 AF-1
for Lumix S5 I have: 50mm 1.8 / 20-60 kit
No flash or any other accessories for L mount
Now, seeing that I already have 2 Metz flash units, I want to give it a go with Samsung first as it would be more economical to begin with.
With NX1 , I can fire up the 2 Metz flashes wirelessly but the problem is that the NX1 integrated flash fires up as well. Any ideas on how to block that light?
I am still not sure if Metz in Slave mode, wirelessly triggered is in Manual mode or TTL...Does anyone know this? The flash unit is so basic, and the manual doesn't even cover this for NX, as probably when Metx 44AF-1 was launched, NX1 with wireless capability wasn't on the market yet.
Next, I need 2 light stands, I looked into Manfrotto nano plus stands but they don't come with an umbrella adaptor ?? Am I missing something?, can you recommend some stands and adapters, please? I live in UK.
I have a standard tripod, wondering if that can be used as a light stand?
After that, I need 2 umbrellas, Either 2 white ones or 2 softbox type like this . Potentially some adapters as well.
Mention here, that space is at a premium currently, later when moved to a larger house it won't, and also appreciate portability as I might travel with the gear to take photos of friends.
A bit daunting since I've never shopped for something like this, and I would like to buy some decent quality items, not something I would throw away.
If I get good at it, I will then buy flash units for my full frame camera.
Your help is appreciated.
Samsung Galaxy NX
Samsung NX1
Samsung NX500
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85
Panasonic Lumix DC-S5
+14 more
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