If you think photography is a kind of arms race, I can't blame you, but there's an important difference: you have more control over that race. In other words, you set the pace. So when we talk about recommended accessories for your photographic studio, what we want is to serve as a guide, with the idea that you search, compare, ask, and finally acquire.
It's easy to reach the conclusion that not everyone wants to live off photography. Many are content with a good DSLR camera around their neck and the possibility of visiting special places to capture them through a lens. The “enthusiast” label is not a bad thing. Quite the contrary, in fact. Photography carries a series of specific rules, but enjoying it following a mode or structure is not one of them. Over time you'll develop your own style, which in turn will help you identify your main needs, and consequently, invest money. More than once, the path of photography will lead us to studio territory. No matter how beautiful outdoor photos may be, sooner or later you'll want a “controlled” environment, if you will. The plan is to set aside the struggle with light, unwanted reflections, hostile weather (not even the best photographer in the world can convince a cloud to move), and other factors. But the photographic studio requires help. Some time ago we talked about the most important studio lighting accessories, whether you are an enthusiast or a rising professional, and today I would like to expand a bit.
Lights, flashes, more lights, and more flashes
The photographer makes the photo, but light does too. This is not my invention, but a kind of proven mantra repeated in the photography world over and over. Unless limiting the amount of available light is your goal from the beginning, every studio should have abundant sources. Interestingly, you don't have to hand over a kidney. In fact, there are studio flashes and general lighting kits cheaper than the average smartphone. Take for example the Quadralite Move 300 package. It's an excellent starting point: two 300-watt studio flashes, a softbox, a reflective umbrella, supports extending up to two meters... and less than 300 euros for the whole set.
If you want to go up or down a step, nothing stops you. If those 300 euros are a bit uncomfortable (you know, end of the year and such), you'll find an excellent alternative in the Visico VL-400 Plus studio flash, which you can buy alone (130 euros), or with some accessory. For just 40 euros extra you can add a reflective umbrella with compatible support, or several filters and the so-called “honeycomb”, a very interesting diffuser worth experimenting with. Technically anyone could make their own honeycomb (some geniuses have combined straws, glue, tape, and foam rubber), but as a first option I think buying one is best. Now, if you prefer the Visico VL-400 Plus with the whole battalion at its side (two flashes, two umbrellas, a softbox, a dish, automatic trigger, filters, honeycomb, and more), the brand doesn't exceed 500 euros. An iPhone is more expensive.
Do you need to buy everything at once? No, of course not. Remember what I said in the first paragraph: Photography may be an arms race, but you control the pace. The auxiliary accessories that accompany studio lights and flashes are all available separately, with numbers that yield to very humble budgets. Photography always gives the feeling of being intimidating, but it's not really. Once you know the elements available in your market and the prices involved, you'll feel much more comfortable. Explore, experiment, and as always, go out there. Good luck!
