Studio lighting for high-sensitivity film

Georg · 2012-12-29T22:08:45+00:00

Hallo, ich will Porträts mit einem Fuji-Sofortbildfilm FP 3000 B machen und mir dafür ein kleines Amateurstudio einrichten. Folgende Ausrüstung habe ich: 6...

Georg

Hello, I want to take portraits using Fuji FP 3000 B instant film and set up a small amateur studio for this purpose. I have the following equipment: 6x6 medium-format camera with Polaroid magazine 80 mm standard lens 180 mm telephoto lens 1 Multiblitz Minilite studio flash (200 WS) with tripod, standard reflector and honeycomb grid. Given the film’s high speed, I’m now wondering whether I should replace the flash system with the Adologht continuous light, as I fear the flash is hopelessly overpowered for the film’s speed. On the other hand, I feel a bit sorry for the flash, as it’s already here and I wouldn’t have to start from scratch. In short, the question is whether I should add another 1–2 flashes, or whether I should sell it and get an Adolight continuous lighting system from FOTOIMPEX. As a complete beginner, I’d be very grateful for any tips! Best regards, Georg

MirkoBoeddecker

Hello Georg, We’d naturally be delighted if you were to order an ADOLIGHT from us. For beginners, working with lamp light is also more intuitive to learn than flash photography. However, you needn’t worry that your 200 WS flash will be too powerful for the 3000. Use an umbrella or fire the flash indirectly, and your power output will drop significantly – you’ll soon be wondering where you can get a bit more. In my opinion, umbrellas, reflectors and the background are more important. A second light source would also be a good idea. Good luck! Mirko

Georg

Thank you very much for your reply! I haven’t quite finished thinking it through yet. Could I also use three 200-watt energy-saving bulbs in the Adolight 3x? There are, for example, 2700 K bulbs available here. They do cost a small fortune (especially if you buy three at once), but they certainly are bright...

Wolfgg

Hi Georg, For that price, you can actually get a second flash unit. With colour film, you’re best off avoiding the light spectrum produced by gas-discharge lamps, as it can lead to unpleasant colour surprises. You’re better off sticking with a flash; your models will thank you for it too. The modelling light on a flash is much weaker than that of any continuous light source, so it won’t be as dazzling when you’re setting up. Best regards, Wolfgang

MirkoBoeddecker

You can’t use these lights. They’re very large – something the Homegrowshop doesn’t mention – and they simply won’t fit side by side in the 3X’s socket(s). Besides, Wolfgang’s right. 3x200 watts might be suitable for product photography, but not for models without sunglasses ;-) Our 3X is perfectly equipped as we offer it, with the three 26 W lamps. Any more than that will result in models squinting and squinting. Best regards, Mirko