2 light kit

[DVXPDX]

I am shooting a project and planning a real minimal style in terms of light. I want to get two or so small lights. I am shooting some "guerrilla" interiors on the sly, motel room, etc..so I want to keep the lights low and minimal as to not overload a power supply.

I am thinking like a small fresnel and maybe a softer something. I am planning on using some reflectors, etc. I just need a solid little set up.

I would be extermely greatful for any suggestions.

[David Jimerson]

Hmmm . . . low light, motel rooms . . . ::)

[J_Barnes]

...party gels...a wah wah pedal...a young lady with a broken television set...

[DVXPDX]

You guys are HIRED!!!!

So, about the two lights?


???

[joachim]

If you can afford it, a set with two KinoFlos (two-bank should do) would be nice,
the run cool, don't need much power and deliver nice and soft light. Plus you can just
tape them to a wall or hide them behind a sofa or bed.
A combination of a Fresnel and a Kino will also work well.

[24pshooter]

I'd suggest a Kino-Flo Diva 400 and a 650 Fresnel. This will give you a lot of choices but for less than 10 amps max--you won't blow a circuit (usually 15Amps).

A nice feature of the Diva 400s not often mentioned is that they have the output equal to (2) 4banks--and you can remove two of the bulbs and get the equivalent of a Diva 200. Plus a couple of stops of dimming. Very versatile. Also will keep the talent cool--important for make-up and attitudes.

650 will be quite bright enough for a motel room, and you'll probably scrim down.

Don't forget a couple of stands, diffusion, reflector/whiteboard.

If you don't have the money to buy, rent. What town are you shooting in?
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But mainly it just depends on what you are shooting and what kinds of framing/composition you are doing. What kind of look are you going for? The love scene in El Mariachi by Robert Rodriguez was shot with two Home Depot work lights. 1 for key, 1 for background. No fill. It worked and looked great.

But if you also intend to shoot for clients, leave the worklights in the garage and put together a kit that is versatile. Eventually a lighting kit pays for itself.
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If you are looking to buy and don't have much cash, the Rostronics lights that are talked about on this site are probably a good value to get started with. Anyways, good luck.