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MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 09:06
Hi,

I've recently decided to get back into Large Format, and would like to take still lifes. I invested in a strobe (Elinchrom Style rx1200), but was appalled at how heavy it was (weight 3,45kg). "Now I would have to buy an appallingly heavy light stand", I thought.

However, I'm struggling in Switzerland. There doesn't appear to be much, if any, choice in the used market, and I'm struggling in the new market as well.

I've had conflicting advice on what I should be looking for. Some have said to go for the heaviest weight rating that I can afford. Is this good advice?

I know I need steel, and I am looking at two different tripods:

https://www.manfrotto-shop.ch/contents/de-ch/p18152.html

and

https://www.thomannmusic.ch/manfrotto_avenger_roller_36_low_base.htm

Should I be going for the Avenger since it has the highest load capacity? Or am I overdoing it for a 3.5kg strobe? I know I may want to boom at some point too.

Also, anything else I should be looking out for?

Tin Can
7-May-2021, 09:14
I have 3 Avenger C-Stands and use sandbags

I bought 3 different styles to gain maximum flexibility

Love and use them often

https://www.thomannmusic.ch/manfrotto_c_stand_kit_30_detachable_bk.htm

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 09:20
I have 3 Avenger C-Stands and use sandbags

I bought 3 different styles to gain maximum flexibility

Love and use them often

https://www.thomannmusic.ch/manfrotto_c_stand_kit_30_detachable_bk.htm

Do you use the C-Stands for your strobes? Or do you just mean that Avenger is a good brand to go with?

neil poulsen
7-May-2021, 09:23
You might consider strobes with a power pack, versus mono-lights.

Anymore, they're dinosaurs, so they don't cost much. The heads are light-weight, so no heed for heavy light stands. They're also more powerful than mono-lights. The "inconvenience" of the power cords shouldn't be too much of a problem, since you'll be working in a studio environment.

If you consider this, Dynalites might be a good way to go. They have arcing protection, and they're compact. There's also an array of accessories that were made for them.

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 09:38
You might consider strobes with a power pack, versus mono-lights.

Anymore, they're dinosaurs, so they don't cost much. The heads are light-weight, so no heed for heavy light stands. They're also more powerful than mono-lights. The "inconvenience" of the power cords shouldn't be too much of a problem, since you'll be working in a studio environment.

If you consider this, Dynalites might be a good way to go. They have arcing protection, and they're compact. There's also an array of accessories that were made for them.

I did consider used power packs, but I was scared of their potential for going wrong. And I can't afford new. I managed to pick up the Elinchrom for 170 francs, which I felt was quite a good deal. Plus, I won't be able to pickup Dynalites in Switzerland I don't think. I think it's mainly Elinchrom and Broncolor.

Tin Can
7-May-2021, 10:09
I use them daily with my 4 Paul C Buff Einsteins, right now one for macro Polaroid with a giant soft umbrella

I also have LED panels bought long ago

I use adapters for camera mounting and 2 booms

B&H ships big sandbags filled for 'free'

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850443-REG/Impact_ls_ct40mb_Turtle_Base_C_Stand.html

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1161037-REG/impact_sbf_b_35_saddle_sandbag_35lb.html


Do you use the C-Stands for your strobes? Or do you just mean that Avenger is a good brand to go with?

Pieter
7-May-2021, 10:39
C Stands are pretty versatile in the studio, I use them with a boom and Hensel heads and monolights. Don't forget to use a couple of sand bags over the legs, otherwise you're asking for trouble. And a counter-weight for the boom when you use one. Another point, be careful when lowering the lights on the stand. A harsh impact as the sections telescope can break the modeling light filament, even the flash tube. As far as folding stands, Matthews are good (I don't know if you can find them in Europe) and I would think there are heavy-duty Manfrotto stands as well.

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 12:11
C Stands are pretty versatile in the studio, I use them with a boom and Hensel heads and monolights. Don't forget to use a couple of sand bags over the legs, otherwise you're asking for trouble. And a counter-weight for the boom when you use one. Another point, be careful when lowering the lights on the stand. A harsh impact as the sections telescope can break the modeling light filament, even the flash tube. As far as folding stands, Matthews are good (I don't know if you can find them in Europe) and I would think there are heavy-duty Manfrotto stands as well.

I must say, I'm surprised that people are using C-Stands. I thought that they were mainly for holding things through grippers - didn't realise people were using them for booms. With this being the case, what is the argument for using a normal light stand over a C-Stand?

MarsZhukov
7-May-2021, 12:29
With this being the case, what is the argument for using a normal light stand over a C-Stand?

If you are on the go and know you won't be exposed to the elements, a lighter kit is sometimes desirable. Imagine shooting corporate headshots with a single softlight, as a for instance.

Bernice Loui
7-May-2021, 12:45
Brand biased preference would be Matthews Studio Equipment. They have been supplying lighting stands and all sorts of lighting/grip stuff to the cinema industry for decades. Proven durability, reliable and does what it needs to do. Check for a local distribution in the EU/CH.

https://www.msegrip.com/



Bernice

LabRat
7-May-2021, 13:11
There are light stands strong enough to hold heavy heads, but one big problem is when stand is too light and extended, one bump or when outdoors in a breeze, stand will like to topple over crashing head... C-stands are heavier, and tend to resist this more... But are more bulky while transporting... And the articulating arm(s) can be used as short booms with head off-center if well weighted...

So a good choice if you don't mind carrying them around...

Steve K

Tin Can
7-May-2021, 13:16
I had access to borrow, 1K and 2K traditional hot lights, focusable fresnel, really heavy stands on wheels

My movie buddies have a pile

Way too HOT for anything I will do in my studio

I wrote here about those some years ago

I also have 4 theatre lighting hot cans, with safety cables also focusable, $20 for the lot, not stolen

One of these days I will convert them to high power LED

I only shoot color with iPhone and often convert to B&W, so my needs are less

As hobbyist I don't write off my tools

Pros do

I also sell no art, I give it away

I live on a very low budget by cutting all frill

yet all my imaging gear is wonderful

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 13:18
If you are on the go and know you won't be exposed to the elements, a lighter kit is sometimes desirable. Imagine shooting corporate headshots with a single softlight, as a for instance.

Do you mean that the C Stands are a bit lighter? (The roller I'm looking at seems to be quite a bit heavier than the C Stands on the same site. https://www.thomannmusic.ch/manfrotto_avenger_roller_36_low_base.htm. Although this is also really expensive, so I am wondering if it is overkill)

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 13:26
There are light stands strong enough to hold heavy heads, but one big problem is when stand is too light and extended, one bump or when outdoors in a breeze, stand will like to topple over crashing head... C-stands are heavier, and tend to resist this more... But are more bulky while transporting... And the articulating arm(s) can be used as short booms with head off-center if well weighted...

So a good choice if you don't mind carrying them around...

Steve K

I would be sticking to studio in the main, so I don't mind about weight or bulk. Although, like I mentioned in another comment, the Avenger Roller 36 that I originally linked to seems to be quite heavy itself, at 13.6kg, and holding 40kg. This seems to be heavier and hold more than the C-Stand offerings.

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 13:27
I live on a very low budget by cutting all frill

yet all my imaging gear is wonderful

Ideally, this is what I'd like to do as well.

MilamBardo
7-May-2021, 13:38
Brand biased preference would be Matthews Studio Equipment. They have been supplying lighting stands and all sorts of lighting/grip stuff to the cinema industry for decades. Proven durability, reliable and does what it needs to do. Check for a local distribution in the EU/CH.

https://www.msegrip.com/



Bernice

As with Avenger, there are limited suppliers of Matthews equipment in Switzerland it seems. I can find a couple of C-Stands, but no rollers

Bernice Loui
8-May-2021, 10:02
Possible for that distributor to special order rollers or make something?

Oh, consider sand bagging the light stand legs. This will add stability to the light stand with lighting unit. If one of these lighting units tips over.. It will ruin a lot more than just that day.



Bernice



As with Avenger, there are limited suppliers of Matthews equipment in Switzerland it seems. I can find a couple of C-Stands, but no rollers

Tin Can
8-May-2021, 11:35
Another option, Wall Booms https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=wall%20booms&N=0&InitialSearch=yes&sts=ma

They work well with my Einsteins and Pack Heads. I use heavy duty fasteners that I install

I almost bought a used over head system from a member here, at that moment I could not get to it.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/283924-REG/Manfrotto_FF3033_Pro_Studio_Rail_System.html

I bought nearly all my studio gear used, I really like my backdrop roller system with autopoles

I also use 4 NIKON SB800 speedlights as remotes in many ways

Autopoles and a cross bar https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1031460-REG/manfrotto_two_032b_autopoles_kit.html

I made 2 V-Cards from four sheets 4X8' 1 white coroplast and 1 from black foam core

I use my 'living room' for photo studio, no sofas and everything folds

Tin Can
8-May-2021, 11:45
I have used these on location https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/GoalPostKit--trusst-goal-post-kit-lighting-truss

If your studio is permanent, anything can be done or made

Peter De Smidt
8-May-2021, 14:11
Yes, traditionally in the movie industry c-standards aren't use for lights. Why? Because the legs spread is smaller than with a traditional light stand. I worked in a big photo studio. (Housing sets were built inside the various studios.) C-stands were lined up along one wall in each of the bays. They nest very well standing up. To get to the light stands, you'd have to go to the equipment room. So, I expect that in that type of studio, c=stands were used more because they were quicker to grab, and they worked fine for most things. They were always sand bagged, the cables were wired appropriately and covered with mats or tapped to the floor.... There were two junior rolling boom stands in each of the big bays, and these were used whenever a light had to go up higher than about 10 feet. (One bay had a huge ceiling soft light system. This was used for photographing cars, motorcycles......

So I have 15 years experience working as an assistant at various big studios. I do prefer Matthews, but Kupo, American Grip, Avenger (i.e Manfrotto) and others makes some good products. Kupo grip arms with the faceted (no spin) ends are very nice.

Now for light stands....I really prefer ones that have regular, full-sized baby studs. Some of mine don't. You can buy brass adapters that go from 3/16 threads to a baby stud. I've mounted them on the stands with thread lock. I don't like air cushioning. I'd rather just have good fixtures.

When I had my own small studio, I used a Manfrotto rolling junior stand with an adapter to go from a Junior receiver to 3/8th. I mounted a ball head, and used it as a replacement for a studio stand when I used a dslr. It worked great.

My favorite 'kit' stands were old Lowel ones. They were steel. They had real baby studs. They packed compactly, and they were tough. We had Mathews c-stands but not kit stands. I'm sure they're fine.

Ron789
8-May-2021, 16:19
So... you plan to make large fornat still life photo's in a studio setting.
You have one Elinchrom Style rx1200 studio flash unit.
Sounds like you will not be making photo's in very stressful and/or dynamic situations, you will have time to take it easy. Basically, any light stand will do in such circumstances, even the cheapest. All the light stand needs to do is keep the flash unit in place.
I use pretty large and heavy flash units with very simple and cheap light stands without any problem in a studio setting.
Here's one that I found on a local (Dutch) website, for only €7,95 incl. VAT:
https://www.tradeshopping.nl/fotostudio-statief-80-200-cm.html
Of course, the build quality is crap, but for your intended use it may serve you well for years and when it breaks down, just buy a new one.

Jody_S
8-May-2021, 16:46
I also have 4 theatre lighting hot cans, with safety cables also focusable, $20 for the lot, not stolen

One of these days I will convert them to high power LED



I think several of us are holding on to old theatre lights hoping to convert some day. I have 6 or 7 stashed in the attic. Last time I looked (this year) you could buy 5K 50W LED COBs that run on line voltage (120 or 240V). I'm waiting for prices to come down a little, so maybe next week ;)

MilamBardo
9-May-2021, 06:47
Yes, traditionally in the movie industry c-standards aren't use for lights. Why? Because the legs spread is smaller than with a traditional light stand. I worked in a big photo studio. (Housing sets were built inside the various studios.) C-stands were lined up along one wall in each of the bays. They nest very well standing up. To get to the light stands, you'd have to go to the equipment room. So, I expect that in that type of studio, c=stands were used more because they were quicker to grab, and they worked fine for most things. They were always sand bagged, the cables were wired appropriately and covered with mats or tapped to the floor.... There were two junior rolling boom stands in each of the big bays, and these were used whenever a light had to go up higher than about 10 feet. (One bay had a huge ceiling soft light system. This was used for photographing cars, motorcycles......

So I have 15 years experience working as an assistant at various big studios. I do prefer Matthews, but Kupo, American Grip, Avenger (i.e Manfrotto) and others makes some good products. Kupo grip arms with the faceted (no spin) ends are very nice.

Now for light stands....I really prefer ones that have regular, full-sized baby studs. Some of mine don't. You can buy brass adapters that go from 3/16 threads to a baby stud. I've mounted them on the stands with thread lock. I don't like air cushioning. I'd rather just have good fixtures.

When I had my own small studio, I used a Manfrotto rolling junior stand with an adapter to go from a Junior receiver to 3/8th. I mounted a ball head, and used it as a replacement for a studio stand when I used a dslr. It worked great.

My favorite 'kit' stands were old Lowel ones. They were steel. They had real baby studs. They packed compactly, and they were tough. We had Mathews c-stands but not kit stands. I'm sure they're fine.

How can you tell if it has a full-size baby stud?

Also, why do you not like air cushioned?

A new stand that I am considering is the Manfrotto 126BSU (https://www.manfrotto.com/global/heavy-duty-black-stand-126bsu/. It's not Avenger, but seems to have some good reviews, and I can get it for 190 francs, which is significantly cheaper than the Avenger. No wheels though, although I'm not sure how important wheels are in large format photography, as I'm guessing you don't move the light very much...

MilamBardo
9-May-2021, 06:58
So... you plan to make large fornat still life photo's in a studio setting.
You have one Elinchrom Style rx1200 studio flash unit.
Sounds like you will not be making photo's in very stressful and/or dynamic situations, you will have time to take it easy. Basically, any light stand will do in such circumstances, even the cheapest. All the light stand needs to do is keep the flash unit in place.
I use pretty large and heavy flash units with very simple and cheap light stands without any problem in a studio setting.
Here's one that I found on a local (Dutch) website, for only €7,95 incl. VAT:
https://www.tradeshopping.nl/fotostudio-statief-80-200-cm.html
Of course, the build quality is crap, but for your intended use it may serve you well for years and when it breaks down, just buy a new one.

I think I would just be too worried that the strobe would fall if it did break. I only have a limited amount of money to get set up, and I don't think I would be able to get the strobe as cheap as I did again. Plus, I am going to try some portraits too, if I have enough power, and so want to be sure things are safe for any potential model.

Peter De Smidt
9-May-2021, 07:09
Baby stud: https://static.bhphoto.com/images/images500x500/kupo_kg012412_3_5long_5_8_baby_stud_1521100657_1340615.jpg

Air cushioned is slower. It's not a big deal, but if you're setting up a bunch of stands every day....

That's a Junior stand with a built in Baby stud. It should be fine. Manfrotto/Avenger are really the same thing.

Ron789
9-May-2021, 09:05
I think I would just be too worried that the strobe would fall if it did break. I only have a limited amount of money to get set up, and I don't think I would be able to get the strobe as cheap as I did again. Plus, I am going to try some portraits too, if I have enough power, and so want to be sure things are safe for any potential model.

Don't worry, it won't break and fall. If the stand gets damaged, it will happen during storage, transport or you setting it up.... but once it stands, it stands. I've been using such stands for years, mainly for portraiture, without any problem.

MilamBardo
9-May-2021, 11:59
Don't worry, it won't break and fall. If the stand gets damaged, it will happen during storage, transport or you setting it up.... but once it stands, it stands. I've been using such stands for years, mainly for portraiture, without any problem.

Ah okay. That's good to know then.

Tin Can
9-May-2021, 12:03
Here's my studio as used an hour ago

3 C stands, 3 PCP Einsteins, no sandbags, as I am very careful. I would use sand bags if the stands were set taller or others on set. I usually store the big umbrellas at the ceiling, face up to it, in a corner

One, bare bulb full power into the V-Card

Two, 50% 20 degree grid on scupture

Three, umbrella 100% for both subjects and bounce

Flash incident nose reading f16, shot at F16. Windup shutter cable

Ist shot ever with that camera, used one $8 FP10045C sheet, made 2 mistakes, but good enough for this. I am trying to not waste FP.

Notice the color changes from various LED left on during exposure

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51168378813_b08b7f0620_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kXzjkP)Hunting (https://flic.kr/p/2kXzjkP) by TIN CAN COLLEGE (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tincancollege/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51168150196_4415c91a19_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kXy9o9)Hunting 2 (https://flic.kr/p/2kXy9o9) by TIN CAN COLLEGE (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tincancollege/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51168461753_6ccaa5d888_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kXzJZP)aHunter FP10045C (https://flic.kr/p/2kXzJZP) by TIN CAN COLLEGE (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tincancollege/), on Flickr

pchaplo
9-May-2021, 22:48
Black Avenger stands, not the C-stand, Just the 3-leg tripod style. Nice big knobs. Used them for years.

215697
215698

Tin Can
10-May-2021, 03:07
Don't forget Superclamps

Pieter
10-May-2021, 09:40
Sand bags are cheap insurance, why not use them? Have some small (10#) ones, too--they come in handy as counterweights for booms and tripods.

MilamBardo
10-May-2021, 10:06
Sand bags are cheap insurance, why not use them? Have some small (10#) ones, too--they come in handy as counterweights for booms and tripods.

I'll definitely be employing sandbags, although I have heard that it can be harder to attach them to light stands (as opposed to C-Stands). Someone said elsewhere that I should be able to attach them to the center pole somehow.

Tin Can
10-May-2021, 10:08
Not sure to whom you speak

I have 2 of these bought used with cast iron weights

Manfrotto 085BS Heavy-Duty Boom and Stand (Black) (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/512958-REG/Manfrotto_085BS_Heavy_Duty_Boom_and.html)

I also have 2 Arkay Studio stands (https://www.pdf-manuals.com/camera-stands-arkay-183-1059-instructions), used, paid little


Sand bags are cheap insurance, why not use them? Have some small (10#) ones, too--they come in handy as counterweights for booms and tripods.

MilamBardo
10-May-2021, 10:31
Not sure to whom you speak

I have 2 of these bought used with cast iron weights

Manfrotto 085BS Heavy-Duty Boom and Stand (Black) (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/512958-REG/Manfrotto_085BS_Heavy_Duty_Boom_and.html)

I also have 2 Arkay Studio stands (https://www.pdf-manuals.com/camera-stands-arkay-183-1059-instructions), used, paid little


That seems like a nice setup (the boom). (Also, liked the pictures of your studio earlier)

How do you attach the cast iron weights to the stands?

MilamBardo
10-May-2021, 10:42
Black Avenger stands, not the C-stand, Just the 3-leg tripod style. Nice big knobs. Used them for years.

215697
215698

I like the Avenger stands, but I think the one I was looking at is probably a bit out of my monetary range if I'm being honest, and they don't really come up used here (in Switzerland). I'm hoping to make do with a regular Manfrotto (126BSU) I think, as I can get that reasonably cheaply. Hopefully it'll do the job.

MilamBardo
10-May-2021, 10:46
Not sure to whom you speak

I have 2 of these bought used with cast iron weights

Manfrotto 085BS Heavy-Duty Boom and Stand (Black) (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/512958-REG/Manfrotto_085BS_Heavy_Duty_Boom_and.html)

I also have 2 Arkay Studio stands (https://www.pdf-manuals.com/camera-stands-arkay-183-1059-instructions), used, paid little

Ah, ignore me - I've just noticed that the cast iron weights are what you attach to the boom.

Do you weigh the stand down with sandbags? If so, how are you doing it?

Peter De Smidt
10-May-2021, 10:54
Personally, I prefer to clamp a boom weight, like https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5367-REG/Manfrotto_022_022_Counter_Balance_Weight.html , to a stand instead of using sandbags. The latter often leak.

Tin Can
10-May-2021, 11:00
When we need that big orange weight and combine it with whatever is on the other end the stand is getting heavy

10 lb sand bags can fit on the leg struts

Last usage was to hang a smoke machine high up so fog fell


Ah, ignore me - I've just noticed that the cast iron weights are what you attach to the boom.

Do you weigh the stand down with sandbags? If so, how are you doing it?

Pieter
10-May-2021, 11:07
Ah, ignore me - I've just noticed that the cast iron weights are what you attach to the boom.

Do you weigh the stand down with sandbags? If so, how are you doing it?

Sandbags just drape over one leg or the strut of the stand, best if neither end of the bag actually touches the ground. Multiple bags can be used if the light is heavy, has a large softbox or on a boom. I usually place the bag on a leg that is on the opposite side of the way the light is pointing. Sandbags are used if you have large reflectors or flags on a stand, too.

Pieter
10-May-2021, 11:35
Some quick snaps to illustrate in my small, crowded studio space.

215721215722215723

lenicolas
10-May-2021, 13:36
I’m assuming thomann.de delivers to Switzerland?

They have the black C-stand with boom arm in stock (https://m.thomann.de/intl/manfrotto_c_stand_kit_33_bk.htm?i11l=fr_GB%3ANO.NOK%3AEUR&o=7&search=1620678675)

Or if you find a basic light stand locally you could just buy the extension arm from them (https://m.thomann.de/intl/manfrotto_d520_40_extension_arm.htm?i11l=fr_GB%3ANO.NOK%3AEUR&o=11&search=1620678675) for versatility.

I gotta say I’m surprised you can’t find a basic light stand used in Switzerland. There’s a bunch of amateur photographers down there.

MilamBardo
11-May-2021, 02:35
Thanks, everyone. So looks like can use a counterweight or sandbags on a normal light stand. What was confusing me was that I had seen a customer review saying that it wasn't possible to sandbag the 126bsu/csu. Clearly they were wrong.

MilamBardo
11-May-2021, 02:38
I’m assuming thomann.de delivers to Switzerland?

They have the black C-stand with boom arm in stock (https://m.thomann.de/intl/manfrotto_c_stand_kit_33_bk.htm?i11l=fr_GB%3ANO.NOK%3AEUR&o=7&search=1620678675)

Or if you find a basic light stand locally you could just buy the extension arm from them (https://m.thomann.de/intl/manfrotto_d520_40_extension_arm.htm?i11l=fr_GB%3ANO.NOK%3AEUR&o=11&search=1620678675) for versatility.

I gotta say I’m surprised you can’t find a basic light stand used in Switzerland. There’s a bunch of amateur photographers down there.

Yes, I've been checking the used auction site out here, and not much comes up. There were some broncolor senior stands, but I didn't think that the load capacity was enough.

Also, the Avenger you linked only has 10kg load capacity, so not sure it would be enough? My strobe is 3.5kg, and I might want to boom at some point. But, certainly I will keep it in mind as I'm thinking I'll need a C Stand as well.

MilamBardo
11-May-2021, 03:23
I’m assuming thomann.de delivers to Switzerland?

They have the black C-stand with boom arm in stock (https://m.thomann.de/intl/manfrotto_c_stand_kit_33_bk.htm?i11l=fr_GB%3ANO.NOK%3AEUR&o=7&search=1620678675)

Or if you find a basic light stand locally you could just buy the extension arm from them (https://m.thomann.de/intl/manfrotto_d520_40_extension_arm.htm?i11l=fr_GB%3ANO.NOK%3AEUR&o=11&search=1620678675) for versatility.

I gotta say I’m surprised you can’t find a basic light stand used in Switzerland. There’s a bunch of amateur photographers down there.

Okay, your comment got me searching on the auction site. I've not been able to find anything recent, but I have found what looks like a much older stand. I think it looks like steel, so should be able to carry a 3.5kg strobe. And it is going cheap so far, so would be ideal.

The only problem is I can't figure out what the connector is - it looks huge. Will this work with a strobe do you think? Do I need an adaptor?

215730
215731

Tin Can
11-May-2021, 04:02
Yes


Okay, your comment got me searching on the auction site. I've not been able to find anything recent, but I have found what looks like a much older stand. I think it looks like steel, so should be able to carry a 3.5kg strobe. And it is going cheap so far, so would be ideal.

The only problem is I can't figure out what the connector is - it looks huge. Will this work with a strobe do you think? Do I need an adaptor?

215730
215731

MilamBardo
11-May-2021, 05:50
Yes

Do you mean I need an adapter?

Tin Can
11-May-2021, 06:31
https://www.mole.com/adapters-spuds

Maybe



Do you mean I need an adapter?

Peter De Smidt
11-May-2021, 07:14
Regarding an adapter, it depends on your fixture. Pro gear uses 5/8 baby studs.

They look like this: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33161-REG/Matthews_429041_Baby_Plate_3.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A514&gclid=CjwKCAjw1uiEBhBzEiwAO9B_HVJ-0N2faAn6H9TsBhilA6Th_My8oRZVCHbP_5DZI03zRHn5Ua9koxoCOrIQAvD_BwE

That's what's on the top of c-stands, for example.

Some studs, though, look like this: https://www.manfrotto.com/nl-en/lighting-stud-1-4-036-14/

Pro fixtures will fit on the newer stud, but they will often fit at an angle.

So the used light stand you showed had the newer one. It may work with your gear just fine, but if not, there's an adapter: https://www.adorama.com/fpxsp05.html?RRref=pType:listPage,id:6W4woD,type:keyword

That's not the one I use. Mine has a longer lip at the top. I Googled a bit but couldn't find it. If you have problems, I can spend more time looking. The difference is the length of the top lip. Compare the photo in the first link to the later ones. Basically, a baby stud is a 5/8" diameter rod with a narrower dimension area for a screw. The difference is the length of the top 5/8" section "above" the notch. Traditional studs this is about a centimeter long. On the newer ones, it can be 1/4th of that.

This fixture has the the pro-style on one end, and the newer style on the other: https://www.impactstudiolighting.com/product/7017/Impact-SRP_114-Double-Ended-Spigot-with-5*8''-Stud-and-1*4''_20-Threads

Tin Can
11-May-2021, 07:34
baby stud wall mounts

I have 3 screwed to my walls, cheap new, very strong

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1305586-REG/impact_srp_115p_3_baby_pin_wall.html

MilamBardo
11-May-2021, 08:39
Regarding an adapter, it depends on your fixture. Pro gear uses 5/8 baby studs.

They look like this: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/33161-REG/Matthews_429041_Baby_Plate_3.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A514&gclid=CjwKCAjw1uiEBhBzEiwAO9B_HVJ-0N2faAn6H9TsBhilA6Th_My8oRZVCHbP_5DZI03zRHn5Ua9koxoCOrIQAvD_BwE

That's what's on the top of c-stands, for example.

Some studs, though, look like this: https://www.manfrotto.com/nl-en/lighting-stud-1-4-036-14/

Pro fixtures will fit on the newer stud, but they will often fit at an angle.

So the used light stand you showed had the newer one. It may work with your gear just fine, but if not, there's an adapter: https://www.adorama.com/fpxsp05.html?RRref=pType:listPage,id:6W4woD,type:keyword

That's not the one I use. Mine has a longer lip at the top. I Googled a bit but couldn't find it. If you have problems, I can spend more time looking. The difference is the length of the top lip. Compare the photo in the first link to the later ones. Basically, a baby stud is a 5/8" diameter rod with a narrower dimension area for a screw. The difference is the length of the top 5/8" section "above" the notch. Traditional studs this is about a centimeter long. On the newer ones, it can be 1/4th of that.

This fixture has the the pro-style on one end, and the newer style on the other: https://www.impactstudiolighting.com/product/7017/Impact-SRP_114-Double-Ended-Spigot-with-5*8''-Stud-and-1*4''_20-Threads

Thanks for your help on this.

Yes, I can see what you mean about the lip being bigger in the first link. I'll have a look about and see if I can see the one I would need.

mdarnton
11-May-2021, 14:22
I just bought the highest, cheapest stands I could afford at that moment. I think one is a 13 or 15 footer that cost me $50 or so. It's got a huge base spread, thick tubes and since I only use it around eight feet or so it's really sturdy and is fine with a boom. And unlike a C stand, it folds into something that I can easily carry and isn't particularly heavy.

And sand bags. Sand bags for EVERYTHING.

MilamBardo
12-May-2021, 13:49
I just bought the highest, cheapest stands I could afford at that moment. I think one is a 13 or 15 footer that cost me $50 or so. It's got a huge base spread, thick tubes and since I only use it around eight feet or so it's really sturdy and is fine with a boom. And unlike a C stand, it folds into something that I can easily carry and isn't particularly heavy.

And sand bags. Sand bags for EVERYTHING.

I'm definitely thinking about picking something up cheaply. Its just my 3.5kg strobe making me nervous. Might just be better to drop 200 and get something I know will hold it.

Pieter
12-May-2021, 14:38
I'm definitely thinking about picking something up cheaply. Its just my 3.5kg strobe making me nervous. Might just be better to drop 200 and get something I know will hold it.

My Hensel monolights weigh in at about 2kg. I would hesitate to use them on a spindly stand over 120 cm high. If you do get a cheap stand just use it at 3/4 or less extension. Are you planning to use a softbox? Take that into consideration, too. You'll want a wide footprint. And I definitely would not put a heavy light on a boom on a cheap stand, you have the added weight of the boom and counterweight to contend with. And no matter what stand you use, use sandbags!

Peter De Smidt
12-May-2021, 14:43
Buy the right thing once. That's often cheaper (and less frustrating) in the long run.

DrTang
11-Jun-2021, 07:36
never buy cheap lightstands or light tripods is my motto

Michael E
15-Jun-2021, 09:37
What's wrong with using the (petit) original Elinchrom light stands they sell with these things? they cost just over 50 EUR (here in Germany) and work just fine. I've been using my own Dlite4 and my school's Style1200 with these stands for many years. The weight of your strobe is not the problem, the big softbox pulling to one side is a much bigger problem. I use a 180cm octagon softbox with the Elinchrom stands or cheap chinese 30 EUR stands (don't buy the ones that only go up to 200cm, your lights won't go high enough). Don't overdo it, don't overthink it. Buy a bigger light stand later, if you really miss it.

wclark5179
18-Jun-2021, 19:11
For me I bought two Quantum flash units.

They work great for me. I usually only needed to run them at 1/2 power. Very easy to move around since they are battery powered. I have a couple of extra batteries in case I needed them in a given situation.

I do have a flash unit similar to yours but don’t hardly use it anymore.

wclark5179
18-Jun-2021, 19:16
Here is the Quantum web site.

https://qtm.com/


At some of the gigs, all I needed to do is clamp the light. I was cordless for transmission of firing from camera to flash.

Smiles.

Jim Michael
19-Jun-2021, 05:32
Those cast iron roller style stands with the pneumatic supprts are great in studio environments, easy to make small changes and less risk of the head slipping down causing the filament in the modeling light to break. Disadvantage is they don’t fold for storage or transport. C-stands are harder to make small changes due to the weight, esp. with a sandbag in place.

LabRat
19-Jun-2021, 05:41
I have used heavy lights on tripods... Just need an adapter...

Won't go as high, but harder to tip over...

Steve K

MilamBardo
24-Sep-2022, 23:42
Okay, so I took a portrait of my pregnant wife just using alluminium stands. I had two manfrotto 004's, which I used to hold an elinchrom Rx style 1200 and 300.

I wasn't happy using the lighter stands, but they held up. Financially, it was the only option. And I was pleased with the result for a first studio lighting shot, especially considering the light meter I bought turned out to be broken.

However, I'm terrified of trying to shoot our 8 month baby with those same stands. Can just see myself kicking one over. So will need to wait a while and bring in the heavies I think!

Tin Can
25-Sep-2022, 03:31
Sandbags should always be used

I love buying filled sand bags from B&H with free shipping!

Then buy C-Stands and still use sand bags

another solution is wall mount

Manfrotto 098B Wall Mounting Boom Arm, Black - 47.2-82.6" (1.2-2.1m)

I bought 4 for $80 10 years ago

I use long lag bolts into real wood

MilamBardo
25-Sep-2022, 04:42
Sandbags should always be used

I love buying filled sand bags from B&H with free shipping!

Then buy C-Stands and still use sand bags

another solution is wall mount

Manfrotto 098B Wall Mounting Boom Arm, Black - 47.2-82.6" (1.2-2.1m)

I bought 4 for $80 10 years ago

I use long lag bolts into real wood

Yes, I wasn't even using sand bags, which was pretty stupid. Question, though, is it ok to be using sand bags on aluminium stands? For instance, would the weight rating of the stand go down?

(Also, C-stands are nigh on impossible to get on the used market here, as are any steel stands)

wclark5179
25-Sep-2022, 12:05
Over the years, I used several lighting set ups; however, the best system for me was using Quantum flashes with Pocket Wizards. No cords to trip over, light weight stand used and with the pocket wizards, easy set up if using on location, easy of moving the lights until I got the pattern I wanted. Initial investment in Quantum’s is high compared to some but I found well worth it. I used the flashes at low power, still consistent temp of light and the batteries last for several hundred shots.

Bernice Loui
25-Sep-2022, 13:23
Setting up lighting stands.. Stands should be used depending on need. Note the stand's footing orientation releative to loads placed on the stand.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2kdxPmcqyU

Recently purchase a few Neewer stainless steel C-stands, surprised at how good they are for their cost. Been using them with a Mathews mini boom for Elinchrom flash heads and everything from a 27" dia beauty dish to 180cm Plume wafer octo soft box with good stability. Appears Neewer has distribution in the EU:
https://eu.neewer.com/products/neewer-stainless-steel-heavy-duty-c-stand-5-10-feet-1-5-3m-adjustable-photographic-sturdy-tripod-10089718?_pos=4&_sid=d4cdc18c2&_ss=r

As for the current variety of battery powered cordless/wireless flash units, depends on lighting needs and lighting modifiers needed. Majority of digital images do not need whopping flash power. This is why most of these cordless/wireless flash units have about 100 watt/seconds of strobe power. Even with a modest light modifier and flash to subject distances this is often enough to achieve about f8 or less, enough for portrait images with these exposure apertures. Once in to sheet film and smaller exposure apertures that 100 watt/seconds will never do. Strobe power needs rapidly grows to 1000 watt/seconds and much more.

Lighting, light modifiers drives ligh stands as needed. For a small battery powered strobe unit, a small tripod light stand will easily do. With a 8000 watt/second flash head and BIG light modifier using nothing less than a stout light stand, proper sand bagging and all becomes a must.



Bernice

Pieter
25-Sep-2022, 19:04
Setting up lighting stands.. Stands should be used depending on need. Note the stand's footing orientation releative to loads placed on the stand.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2kdxPmcqyU

Recently purchase a few Neewer stainless steel C-stands, surprised at how good they are for their cost. Been using them with a Mathews mini boom for Elinchrom flash heads and everything from a 27" dia beauty dish to 180cm Plume wafer octo soft box with good stability. Appears Neewer has distribution in the EU:
https://eu.neewer.com/products/neewer-stainless-steel-heavy-duty-c-stand-5-10-feet-1-5-3m-adjustable-photographic-sturdy-tripod-10089718?_pos=4&_sid=d4cdc18c2&_ss=r

As for the current variety of battery powered cordless/wireless flash units, depends on lighting needs and lighting modifiers needed. Majority of digital images do not need whopping flash power. This is why most of these cordless/wireless flash units have about 100 watt/seconds of strobe power. Even with a modest light modifier and flash to subject distances this is often enough to achieve about f8 or less, enough for portrait images with these exposure apertures. Once in to sheet film and smaller exposure apertures that 100 watt/seconds will never do. Strobe power needs rapidly grows to 1000 watt/seconds and much more.

Lighting, light modifiers drives ligh stands as needed. For a small battery powered strobe unit, a small tripod light stand will easily do. With a 8000 watt/second flash head and BIG light modifier using nothing less than a stout light stand, proper sand bagging and all becomes a must.



Bernice

Also available thru Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Adjustable-Photographic-Reflectors-Monolights/dp/B07415M5TV/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=XTHfn&content-id=amzn1.sym.8cf3b8ef-6a74-45dc-9f0d-6409eb523603&pf_rd_p=8cf3b8ef-6a74-45dc-9f0d-6409eb523603&pf_rd_r=EMVPJV6ADHTWHMJPWYKF&pd_rd_wg=9KBPm&pd_rd_r=b3fd9e55-26d9-4c33-9a2d-b83dece2e3cf&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mi&th=1

I believe Neewer is a Chinese company.

MilamBardo
27-Sep-2022, 06:00
Setting up lighting stands.. Stands should be used depending on need. Note the stand's footing orientation releative to loads placed on the stand.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2kdxPmcqyU

Recently purchase a few Neewer stainless steel C-stands, surprised at how good they are for their cost. Been using them with a Mathews mini boom for Elinchrom flash heads and everything from a 27" dia beauty dish to 180cm Plume wafer octo soft box with good stability. Appears Neewer has distribution in the EU:
https://eu.neewer.com/products/neewer-stainless-steel-heavy-duty-c-stand-5-10-feet-1-5-3m-adjustable-photographic-sturdy-tripod-10089718?_pos=4&_sid=d4cdc18c2&_ss=r

As for the current variety of battery powered cordless/wireless flash units, depends on lighting needs and lighting modifiers needed. Majority of digital images do not need whopping flash power. This is why most of these cordless/wireless flash units have about 100 watt/seconds of strobe power. Even with a modest light modifier and flash to subject distances this is often enough to achieve about f8 or less, enough for portrait images with these exposure apertures. Once in to sheet film and smaller exposure apertures that 100 watt/seconds will never do. Strobe power needs rapidly grows to 1000 watt/seconds and much more.

Lighting, light modifiers drives ligh stands as needed. For a small battery powered strobe unit, a small tripod light stand will easily do. With a 8000 watt/second flash head and BIG light modifier using nothing less than a stout light stand, proper sand bagging and all becomes a must.



Bernice

Thanks - I'll check Neewer out. Some affordable C-Stands would be nice. I have a while yet anyway, as I haven't thought of a new picture yet.

Once again, thanks to everyone for being so helpful.