Next Strobe

[wiz105]

So I've done a few paid photo shoots for some friends and acquaintances. Mostly individual outdoor shots, both action and stills. Now with the holidays coming up I've been asked if I would do some outdoor family portraits (4-6 people). Currently I own 1x AD200 and 1x V100. While for individual work this is really all I have needed so far, I'm thinking if I take on the group photo stuff I'll probably need either a bigger light to handle larger groups, or maybe another couple AD200's. My budget is around $600ish. Here are the options I'm thinking:

1. 1x AD600 BMii or Xplor 600 SE
2. 1x AD400 or xplor 400 (mainly for portability over the 600)
3. 2 additional AD200's and an AD-B2 for flexibility.

I'm really leaning toward option 3 because I like the idea of being able to make 1 big light or split the lights up, but I'm wondering if just going with the AD400 or AD600 would be better for group situations. Here are my questions.

1. Do you think what I currently have would be enough?
2. If not, what set up would you go with and why?
3. Is the 1/2 stop difference in output between the AD600 and AD400 really that much of a game changer?
4. Anyone know if AD200 Proii's are compatible with the AD-B2?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[Ellis Vener]

Option 3 , but keep in mind that setting up and striking two AD200 series lights in an AD-B2 takes longer than just setting up an AD400. This is outweighed by the option to have 2 lights when you need them, and you also will have a backup light.

And yes I highly recommend the Flashpoint branded versions over the Godox because you get better support.

1 &2) Enough? Depends on what you are photographing, how you photograph, and what your ambitions are.

3) No

4) yes

 

[ronscuba]

I like option 3.

For outdoor portraits, I usually do not think about overpowering the sun. I prefer to find a nice setting and background that looks great by itself. Then placing the subjects and using my lights as fill lighting to illuminate the subjects better. This tends to not need super powerful strobes. Add in some adjustments to the shadows in post processing works great.

 

[Travis Burnside]

FWIW I have a couple AD200s and the AD-B2, and I never ever gang them up like that. It's ungainly and time consuming to set up, and the modeling light isn't set up to be a great help.

I also have a couple AD400s that I use all the time. If you don't need the superior portability of the AD200s,the AD400 is the winner for me in all counts. Surprisingly useful modeling light, Bowens modifiers without extra brackets, still relatively compact, and plenty of power for most situations.

 

[wiz105]

I like option 3.

For outdoor portraits, I usually do not think about overpowering the sun. I prefer to find a nice setting and background that looks great by itself. Then placing the subjects and using my lights as fill lighting to illuminate the subjects better. This tends to not need super powerful strobes. Add in some adjustments to the shadows in post processing works great.

I was thinking bigger strobes not so much for over powering the sun, but being able to use bigger modifiers for better distribution of light. Basically what's better, one big light with a big modifier, or multiple smaller lights, or is it basically the same thing?

Right now, I'm using the AD200 with the ADS7 reflector/diffuser, and it's a great portable system with a lot of punch, which works well for single subjects. What's the largest soft box I could get away with outdoors with and AD200. I have a 24" SMDV softbox, and it seems fine, but I wonder how much bigger I could go realistically on the AD200.

 

[jlafferty]

A couple of quick thoughts:

The AD600Pro, the original, is currently priced under $600. I'd get that over the SE.

I've never liked the AD400Pro as it features a proprietary mount, which requires the addition of a (screwdriver needed) Godox-Bowens adapter ring, which then renders it awkward to pack. The AD600Pro, OTOH, features a flush mounted, genuine Bowens mount.

I *love* the remote head for the AD600Pro.

YMMV but I love having at least one big light, supported by a fleet of smaller lights. But... I also see and recognize the great appeal of people working with just a set of 3-4 AD200s.

I bought the AD-B2 and have honestly never used it. I'd happily sell you mine for cheap if you want.

 

[tugwilson]

So I've done a few paid photo shoots for some friends and acquaintances. Mostly individual outdoor shots, both action and stills. Now with the holidays coming up I've been asked if I would do some outdoor family portraits (4-6 people). Currently I own 1x AD200 and 1x V100. While for individual work this is really all I have needed so far, I'm thinking if I take on the group photo stuff I'll probably need either a bigger light to handle larger groups, or maybe another couple AD200's. My budget is around $600ish. Here are the options I'm thinking:

1. 1x AD600 BMii or Xplor 600 SE

The AD600BMI II is the only one of the current MK II slew of lights that are worth choosing over the MK I. It now takes the AD600Pro extension head (which is really a must have) and you don't have to nurse the battery (which is a PITA for photographers who might use the light occasionally).

2. 1x AD400 or xplor 400 (mainly for portability over the 600)

I quite like the AD400Pro because it will take Godox mount softboxes which are easy to pack. But you are likely to need Bowens mount modifiers to prperly light groups of 6 so this isn't an advantage here.

3. 2 additional AD200's and an AD-B2 for flexibility.

I used a couple of AD-B2 before the AD400Pro was available and I've never used them since. AD200ProII will work with them.

I'm really leaning toward option 3 because I like the idea of being able to make 1 big light or split the lights up, but I'm wondering if just going with the AD400 or AD600 would be better for group situations. Here are my questions.

1. Do you think what I currently have would be enough?
2. If not, what set up would you go with and why?
3. Is the 1/2 stop difference in output between the AD600 and AD400 really that much of a game changer?
4. Anyone know if AD200 Proii's are compatible with the AD-B2?

I'd buy the AD600BMII and the H600P. I'd just use that with a softbox or a silver brolly with diffusion. I'd trigger it with an XProII in LEGACY (single pin) mode with MULTI OFF. Single Shooter mode on, range set to 0-30m, full screen on group A. I'd chose the Channel from the results id the Channel Scan. Id leve your other lights in you bag.

 

[ronscuba]

I was thinking bigger strobes not so much for over powering the sun, but being able to use bigger modifiers for better distribution of light. Basically what's better, one big light with a big modifier, or multiple smaller lights, or is it basically the same thing?

Right now, I'm using the AD200 with the ADS7 reflector/diffuser, and it's a great portable system with a lot of punch, which works well for single subjects. What's the largest soft box I could get away with outdoors with and AD200. I have a 24" SMDV softbox, and it seems fine, but I wonder how much bigger I could go realistically on the AD200.

For group photos, I prefer multiple lights vs 1 if I want even coverage and/or precise control. 2 medium size modifers vs 1 large. This obviously means more light stands with weights, more to carry and setup, more to worry about if outdoors with wind.

I suggest getting 1 medium size silver reflect umbrella with a diffuser cover. Use it with your existing AD200, V100, 24" softbox and do some experiments. The umbrella is inexpensive, light, easy to transport and a good modifier. Experiment and you will then have more knowledge and experience to make higher cost purchase decisions to fit YOUR needs.