I am frequently asked what gear I can recommend so I have put together this list of gear for studio and locations light as well as flash:
STUDIO
I recommend 3 strobe lights minimum for studio lighting.
IMPACT MONOLIGHT KIT
This Impact Kit from B&H is lower budget and includes most everything: 2 400ws monolights, 1 100ws monolight, a radio sender and receiver wireless trigger to fire the flash, 2 10’ stands, 1 background light stand, 1 24 x24 light box, 2 umbrellas, Carry case.
Add’l 160 ws monolight
Add’l 300ws Monolight
Grids for above lights
ELINCHROM MONOLIGHT KIT
This Scott Kelby Kit is higher budget and includes ALMOST everything: 2 500 ws monolights, 2 light stands, Octa Midi Bank light box, Strip light box, Wireless triggers, Grid reflector with grids, 17” beauty reflector.
Add’l 250 Light
Carry Case
LIGHT MODIFIERS
I do not always recommend the most expensive gear, especially if you are starting out and are on a budget.
Umbrellas
Light Box
Carry Case Umbrellas Light Boxes
STUDIO STUFF
Background System
Lighting Boom
Sekonic 308 Flash Meter
Photoflex Light Panels
Pocket Wizard Plus III
Heavy Duty Light Stand
Medium Light Stand
Short Light Stand
FLASH ACCESSORIES
Lightbox bracket for Pocket Wizard and flash
Speedring for above bracket
Umbrella Bracket
Grid for SB900
Grid for 580EXII
Gels for Flash
Pocket Wizard TT1 for Canon
Pocket Wizard TT5 for Canon
Pocket Wizard TT1 for Nikon
Pocket Wizard TT5 for Nikon
EQUIPMENT FOR OUTDOOR PORTRAITS
3 Lightstands (minimum 3)
3 Yongnuo Flashes
1 Yongnuo Trigger
1 White Umbrella
1 Beauty Dish
Spring clamps from the hardware store just in case