So I've read a lot of these posts about cheap lighting and was wondering. I want to get a simple kit, and I saw the Smith Victor Photoflood Kits (3lights, 3stands) for around $130. Is this a good alternative or is it just cheap crap, basically some clamp lights mounted on tripods? I figure 1. they handle more wattage so better versatitlity, and 2. it would be nice to have some light stands. Is it a waste of money or should I just make my own? I didn't think their prices were too bad. Is Smith Victor a reliable company with all their products? Thanks.

I'm no expert on lighting, but I've been using the clamp lights and have had no problem with them at all.I mean if Robert Rodriguez uses them (El Mariachi) then you can't go wrong. Plus there about 115 dollars cheaper(per light).

I've never heard of Smith Victor, however, I would go with those lights, especially if this is going to be your first time lighting. You'll get everything you need in the kit (stands, lights, etc.) and the good thing is that you'll have more control over the light (as opposed to buying the home-depot worklights that spray light everywhere).

Thanks guys. If you wanna see Smith Victor stuff, they sell a bunch of it on B&H Photo. Thanks again

trespasser, you can make barn doors for those worklights. so if you try you can control the light well.

i am aware, however, in my experience of putting barn door type things on it (like black foil) it really doesn't make that much of a difference in how it focuses the light. I find my 1000w Homedepot lights much more practical as outdoor fill lights (great for lighting backgrounds in night scenes). Fresnels are truly the best way to go (despite their cost - but you can find used ones cheaper on ebay sometimes).

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Smith Victor Photoflood Kits

those lights are for shooting still photography, so i don't know if they're made to be left on for long periods of time like you would when filming. you should check that before you buy them.

Thanks guys. So what about bulbs? I just picked up some clamp lights (so damn cheap!), plus I figure you can never have too many lights, and I was wondering what type of bulbs to use. I picked up some cheap GE Reveals which look more like daylight than the soft white yellow bulbs. The clamps take up to 150 watts.
Any recomendations on the best bulbs/color to get? Also, for the big work lights? I only saw halogen for those and they're pretty yellow. Thanks again.