Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Hi,

let me start by saying that I'm the owner of 2 youth sports photography companies. I am not a photographer per say, but a business man. That being said, I have had to learn the basics. We have perfected what we are doing out doors, but as you know the industry is such that I must actively stay on top of new technology. I am needing a turn key system to get nice, flat, even lighting in an indoor setting. These will be full body poses, as seen in the attached. I can see in the kids eyes that this particular photographer used a single light. I have looked at several options from the ring flash to the Einsteins. I wanted to see if some seasoned photographers could help me with a simple set up that can be taught to my "photographers". I'm really not interested in all the numbers and technical info. Just looking for some advice on a simple set up. For example, B800 with an octabox or whatever. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks!

from the shadows on the face it looks like the light is just off to camera left a bit I would use a PLM soft silver ( I have the earlier version in extreme and use a white d-fabric ) I use mine with the E-640. The medium size travels very well but if you have room the large PLM might serve you better

I have 6 of the old school WL5000's. Those things have taken a beating, but still get the job done. Can I use the PLM set up with those? Also, have several AB400's.

Yes . . . use the 8mm straight shaft version. The reflector angle is narrower than ideal for the PLM but I think you would be pretty happy with the results.

Gotta' say, those first generation WLs have an incredible reliability record - because they're so simple.

Our two WL5000 and one WL10000 strobes are still poppin' perfectly, in our studio (Carl Photography) along with two XL1600s. We use three Einsteins & Vagabonds & PLMs for location shoots. Buffs are the "Bee's knees!"