Need a bit of guidance on Fresnels

[William LeMarche]

Hey guys I have just joined up, nice site! I have been shooting motorcycles now for about 2 years on and off (really bad luck with accidents this past couple of years). I am looking into getting some Fresnel lights, most likely by Arri.

My question to you is, which kit, if any, should I be looking at. I would like to stay with something that I can mount a softbox to use it in the studio on people to, not just bounce light with vehicles. I don't really know the actual (burn your eyes out) difference of the wattages. Will 4 150s work or should I look at the 250 / 450s?

You help would be great! Thanks again, Billy:)

[Mike Ditz]

Are you looking at HMI or Tungsten.

Why are you looking for continuous lights instead of strobe?

[William LeMarche]

Tung. I think unless there are better results with HMI. Strobes are great but I would like to get my equipment and skills on both sides. I know there is a greater demands on generators and power supplies. I have a couple of pretty BIG gens and my studio has LOTS of power (was set up as a machine shop).

I have no information on this kind of set up. There aren't that many books out there on doing Auto photography so information is like a needle in a hay stack (I'm sure you know). :rolleyes:

Billy-

[Mike Ditz]

Are you going to light a car with 150w lights?
HMI cost a lot more than tungsten but are usually more poweful and daylight balanced. If you are going to stick a softbox on the front of a small tungsten fresnel you are going to lose a lot of light, making them marginally useful for people work.

Try and find some used 1k or 2k if you really want to get tungsten lights...I have used all of the above and Tung is great for studio work but strobe is ideal for outside and people work.
HMIs are great for those with trust funds.

[William LeMarche]

Thanks Mike! I am starting to understand now. So I will probably just get a few more 1200 watt strobes. And save my money for the HMI. You have been a big help to cut through the crap and sure beats renting thousands of dollars and time so thanks again.

Billy