Learning my new equipment.

Been working on getting my studio set up. Cleaning, floor laid, and lights set up. While it is not complete, I couldn't wait to at least get something shot with some of the new gear. This is the starting photo. One Elinchrom 400w with a white reflector shot on my D7100 at ISO 100 on my Tamron 70-300mm lens. Funny thing is I had the wrong camera in hand and the wrong lens. Halfway through I realized I wasn't holding my D600 with 85mm lens. Just goes to show how identical the setup is between these two cameras and that I was focused on seeing what the light would do.

Continuing to develop this shot I will add a hair light.

Overall I am pretty happy with how this turned out for my first go which is always frustrating and challenging when you are working with the new gear.

Looking good! Amazing how focused we can get just on light and what's thru the viewfinder. I haven't gripped my D610 for the sole purpose I don't want to mix my cameras up in the heat of the moment.

@Deezey

That's the funny thing, my D7100 is gripped and the D600 is not. Yet, like you said on getting so focused, I didn't even realize I had the wrong camera. I even shot from the grip without it registering. When it did I just busted out laughing at how focused I was on the lighting. The proverbial if it were a snake it would have bit you fits appropriately enough LOL.

Yes, I can relate on how much fun it is getting a new setup for a home studio. I just picked up some monolights for myself. 2 300w, and 1 160w for highlights. Still have yet to get myself a background but I'll get around to that soon enough.
I can't wait to try most of this on subjects though. So that I can experience what you currently have the chance to do.

@skene

I've been shooting this type of photography for a while using flashes and umbrellas, but the precise control with the Elinchrom combined with a softbox is really sweet.

Understood... I've been using speedlights and have never needed to step up to monolights as I was never into portrait photography. I picked these up on a whim along with a 70-200 so when the odd occasion presents itself, I at least have the equipment that I can go to.

skene said:

Understood... I've been using speedlights and have never needed to step up to monolights as I was never into portrait photography. I picked these up on a whim along with a 70-200 so when the odd occasion presents itself, I at least have the equipment that I can go to.

Click to expand...

Sweetest part is the modeling light. You see exactly where the lighting will fall before you shoot.

Nice shot George. That shows the D7100 is pretty darn good at portrait photography too. Great resolution.

sonicbuffalo said:

Nice shot George. That shows the D7100 is pretty darn good at portrait photography too. Great resolution.

Click to expand...

I've always defaulted to my full frame for its higher iso capability, but with these lights it provides me with ample light to shoot low iso (100) that I don't need to use the D600. More options is always good.