Flash Lighting Stands

[TarMoo]

Following on from reading the excellent Strobist 101 Lighting articles, I have been researching Lighting Stands to mount some Nikon SB600/800 units that I intend to purchase for a home studio lighting package to go with my D300.

It would appear that the Manfrotto 052 Compact Stand plus Manfrotto 026 Light Umbrella Clamp plus Manfrotto 143S Flash Shoe Adapter would make a good combination. The Manfrotto 001 Nano would be an alternative to the 052, as would the "air cushioned" Interfit Stands or Giottos MLC325.

Places to buy this stuff include warehouseexpress.com, photoplus-uk.co.uk, karlu.com and morrisphoto.co.uk

There appears to be a bewildering array of products on offer, especially from Manfrotto. Do any of the users of similar products have any feedback on which is the best one to go for?

[SomeVorn]

Can I just clarify that you want stands/tripods just for flashguns etc?

If this is the case, the Sb600 + 800 both come with stands allowing them to be attached to quick release plates - basically you only need a tripod. If you need 8ft high lighting then fair enough but if you only need 6ft or so, then there are some cheap tripods that should do the job. You don't have to worry about the tripods stability or maximum weight capacity - I'm currently using a £3 tripod as part of my off camera flash kit etc and have no complaints as yet. The legs take up more space but it gets the flashgun off the ground etc.

[ksten]

Cameras2u sell Portaflash light stands for £9.49 and £13.99.

Cheers.

[TarMoo]

Originally Posted by SomeVorn

Can I just clarify that you want stands/tripods just for flashguns etc?

If this is the case, the Sb600 + 800 both come with stands allowing them to be attached to quick release plates - basically you only need a tripod. If you need 8ft high lighting then fair enough but if you only need 6ft or so, then there are some cheap tripods that should do the job. You don't have to worry about the tripods stability or maximum weight capacity - I'm currently using a £3 tripod as part of my off camera flash kit etc and have no complaints as yet. The legs take up more space but it gets the flashgun off the ground etc.

I'm looking to get some flash umbrellas as well. I take quite a few portrait shots and would like to have some lightweight kit for natural looking "indoor shots".

I don't mind paying a little bit extra for better quality.

[cedmondson]

The Strobist recommended kit is all about portability. Unless you can find somewhere to get the double-fold umbrella in the UK (or don't mind importing) I'm not so sure the benefit of the smallest stands will be realised.
After some deliberation I bought a Lastolite all in one kit (umbrella, stand & clamp) which comes in its own padded bag. Not cheap but seems good quality gear and no concerns about incompatibility. It doesn't fold as small as the Strobist stuff but the bag makes it easy to cart around and the stand goes to at least 3.5m at a guess. Just enough extra space in the bag for a Manfrotto superclamp and a few bungees
My stuff came from Speedgraphic - they have a good range.