Basic Gear for Your Indoor Studio
In this lesson, we’re focusing on the gear you need for a simple, effective one-light off-camera flash setup. I’m using budget-friendly, popular choices that work reliably, proving you don’t need the most expensive equipment to get professional results. Even if your gear varies a bit, these basics will give you a solid foundation for the lessons and challenges ahead.
Flash Unit
I’m demonstrating with a Flashpoint R2 Zoom TTL II, which is functionally equivalent to the Godox TT685. These flash units are versatile and interchangeable across brands, so be sure to choose the version that’s compatible with your camera—whether you’re using Canon, Nikon, Sony, or another system. A proven, reliable flash unit is what you should be using, whether you’re mounting it on your camera or setting it up off-camera.
Wireless Trigger
Next, you’ll need a wireless trigger to fire your flash remotely. In the demo, I’m using the Godox XPro trigger, but you can opt for its Flashpoint equivalent. The main point is to have your trigger and flash working seamlessly together, giving you the freedom to position your light exactly where you need it.
Light Stand and Flash Bracket
A sturdy light stand is important for supporting your flash and any modifiers you attach. A stand like the Impact Air-Cushioned Light Stand (Model #LS-8AI) is a good choice for starters. It can extend up to 8 feet and hold around 8 pounds. Since mounting your flash directly to the stand isn’t ideal, you’ll need a reliable flash bracket like the Godox S or S2 Bracket. This bracket secures your flash and offers flexibility–you can swivel the head for angled light placement. It also features an umbrella slot and a Bowens mount for easy attachment of modifiers.
Lighting Modifiers
Modifiers like umbrellas and softboxes are useful for controlling the quality of light. For a low-budget, effective solution, consider a white translucent shoot-through umbrella—around 43 inches across is a good size. If you want a more controlled, even spread of light, opt for a softbox of at least 36 inches. Softboxes direct the light forward with an even pattern, while umbrellas let some light spill around, which can be creatively useful in some portrait scenarios.
Optional Extras
A couple of optional items: A mannequin is a great tool for testing setups without needing a live model. And, consider investing in a backdrop, such as a seamless paper or fabric stand, which can give your portraits a cleaner, more polished look.
With this gear in hand, you’re ready to build a versatile one-light indoor studio setup.