Help with studio lighting needed

[Charlemagne]

Okay everyone, first of all if there is a good tutorial or informative website, just direct me that way.. I have been contracted to do a job that requires studio lighting and backgrounds and such, but I don't have too much of a background in it (They are already aware of this). First of all, this is a regular portrait/yearbook type photos (headshots) that are needed, so what I need to know is how many lights do I need, I was thinking of getting an AB setup, but then where do I get the backgrounds and background stands from?? I don't mind spending the money but I don't want to break the bank on backgrounds. And also, would I need to pick up some pocket wizards or does the new AB wireless system work well enough?? and also if there is a turorial on light placement in studios that would be great also (or a book)

Hope someone can point me in the right direction.

Thanks,

Charles

[Bobby]

Can't really help with the lighting but as regards backgrounds I made one fairly simply. I took two light stands and made hooks out of coat hangars. Then bought a piece of 1 in. dowel. Background paper or cloth is suspended on the dowel between the two stands. Very portable and versatile and not expensive.

[Harv]

You might find the following link to be of some help...

http://www.studiolighting.net/

Good luck with the assignment and be sure to post some examples of your work.

[Kevin]

Charles, I just have a minute now but will come back later to offer other suggestions. In the meantime, have a look at this link. Be sure to look at Ch 13 & 14. The images are dated but the concepts still apply. Lots of useful information here.

Tips on portraiture (http://groups.msn.com/Asktheoleproaboutphotography/joezeltsman.msnw)

[Charlemagne]

Thanks everyone who responded so far, great ideas and great sites, I hope to hear more from more of you and I will post my work when I get going!

Charles

[JimiV]

You might find this link useful. It's product based, and sometimes uses a bit more equipment than you might have. However it does provide some great illustrations of what light modifiers can do.

http://www.photoflexlightingschool.com/index.html

Hope that helps!
JimiV

[Rudi]

Charles,

I believe in the K.I.S.S. principle. The following photo is a quick test with ONE strobe, triggered by an on-camera flash, bounced off a white card to eliminate unwanted shadows. (Done right after purchasing said strobe :)) Sorry about the not-so-willing model, but it goes to show you that sometimes keeping things simple is the best way to go. One light and one reflector should do exactly what you are after, IMO. The more involved and difficult you make it, the more chances for a SNAFU. Just my $0.02... :)

http://rudiphoto.zenfolio.com/img/p597345030.jpg