crash course? fluoro, halo, etc.

[Joe Kocsis]

Ok, so I've never really had to shoot indoors. (period)
99% of everything I've shot is outdoor sports, so I've never considered a lighting package before.. I've been reading and reading, but I'm still wondering.. Here's a few questions..

1) Budget is long term, so I'm prepared to spend up to 2.5K or whatever it really takes, if I can justify(understand why I'm spending) it. Of course I'd rather spend less.

2) I like the idea of using fluor's because of the heat factor, but are there limitations? My requirements are going to be small sets, so I'm thinking fluor panels might be idea? But I'm worried about the flicker of fluor lighting. SHould I be? I'm planning on using for both still photography, and 24P HVX shooting.. The HVX purchase was specifically to shoot some shorts, some I now need some lighting.

3) I want the kit to be durable and portable.(stuffed in a relatively small case, and hopefully on the lighter side)
From what I've read people love the ARRI lights.
This kit was recommended by somebody
http://www.evsonline.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=571963
Any comments or other suggestions for a good started/DIY package?


Thanks..

Joe

 

[bcheong]

Fluoro's like Kino's are great with the lack of heat compared to conventional tungsten fixtures. They are however a soft light and will always be a soft light whereas something like a fresnel is a hard light that can always be made soft (though not quite the same thing) so it's a little more versatile. You'll never be able to get the kind of throw with a Kino that you can get with a fresnel. A good blend of lighting instruments and grip equipment can go far. I would piece together a kit part by part to get a range of different things.

Arri's are really good albeit expensive. I've heard decent things about the Altman stuff which looks comparable and is cheaper. Lowel is portable and light but some people don't like them. Either way once you start going with fresnels it's going to get a little heavy because of all the glass.

Don't forget all the grip stuff to trim your lights which is probably more important than the light itself. C-stands, clamps, mounts, adapters, flags/nets, black wrap, etc, etc.