Softbox lighting vs. umbrella lighting???

Question

I am fairly new to photography but have had several people look at my work and ask me to take their senior pics, maternity pics, etc. I will gladly take pics for people if we are outside and they turn out great. However, when it comes to indoor/studio pics I turn them down because I don't feel like I have the appropriate lighting/equipment necessary.

I would like to purchase some studio equipment but need HELP! I don't need to know the cheapest stuff out there, as this equipment will hopefully be used for many years and help my hobby-to-business grow! I need to know WHAT to buy as far as lighting, and anything else that you would recommend, (I don't even know the difference!). If I'm going to do this, I want to do it "right" straight from the beginning! Brands, websites, etc would be a big a big plus in heading me in the right direction! Thank you!!!

Answer 1

most bang for the buck....great investment

http://alienbees.com/packages.html

http://white-lightning.com/packages.html

For longer life, heavier equipment

I prefer soft boxes if leaving set up, umbrellas (shoot through option is good) for break down /set up situations.

Answer 2

The least expensive lighting will be a 500 watt incandescent lamp with umbrella  (less than $200).  

Soft-boxes are mostly used with the $3,000 plus studio flash units

Start out with incandescent which gives you a much better view of what the light is actually doing until you get enough cashflow to afford a three light studio flash system