Good light stands

[msbarnes]

I'm piecing together my first lighting kit. I got a tripod, reflector/stand, so now my next major purchases are a monlight/modifer and a light stand. I haven't figured the former out yet but I'm thinking Einstein E640 + vagabond mini + 64" Soft Silver PLM umbrella as of now...

With light stands, I don't know where to start. I guess from the PCB website, since it is nicely laid out for beginners.

http://www.paulcbuff.com/ts13ac.php

I was thinking this one, but I didn't want to jump in on this one without considering my options.

What are some good brands and recommendations? I want something that won't fall apart on me. obviously My idea is to get full-body environmental portraits so I'm thinking of getting a 11-13' stand to start? Portability and ease of setup is desired.

 

[btaylor]

11-13' is really high. They are going to be difficult to control (balance, wind) at full extension. Do you really need that height? If so, the PCB stands might be the way to go, though I don't have any personal experience with them.

I really like my Lowel KS 9' stands. I've had them for 30 years. They are easy to transport, sturdy and can easily handle a medium sized light or light modifier. They can handle a sandbag or two as well to hold it steady. Get used ones on ebay cheap. Another choice for sturdiness and height would be a C stand. Heavy and a bit awkward, these are the gold standard for holding stuff up-- fixtures or light modifiers. A gobo arm adds additional height and versatility. Drop a couple of sandbags on it and it's not moving anywhere. Get some with the so-called rocky mountain leg for uneven terrain.

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

I'd stick with a 9' or thereabouts stand. Good brands are Manfrotto, Mathews, and Avenger. Will you be hanging the Vagabond Mini from the light stand or sitting it on the ground? The more you intend to hang on the stand, the beefier you want the stand sections to be.

 

[removed account4]

get bogens
they aren't expensive
and strong as a tank

 

[Mainecoonmaniac]

Since you have monolights, I suggest something heavier duty and something with a wide foot print. If you don't mind the weight, take a look at Mathews.

Dead Link Removed

 

[ROL]

"Good light stands"

Precisely. That's all I'm saying, really. What else does one really need to know?



Sorry, the title just struck me all anthem like. We now return to our regular programming...

 

[Mainecoonmaniac]

One thing you might want to consider how repairable they are. Some stands are riveted together while some use stand nuts and bolts available from hardware stores. Mathews and Manfrottos are pretty repairable. Don't waste your money on cheap stands. Good light stands will last a lifetime. The last consideration is if you want to use grip equipment with your light stands. I have Mathews and Colortran stands that will allow me to use 40" gobo arms and use lights as well as flags and scrims. You might have to buy adaptors for your lights though.

 

[Dismayed]

I've been happy with Calumet-branded stands. Inexpensive and durable.

http://www.calumetphoto.com/eng/bro...-stands-support/light-stands/_/brands/calumet

 

[AgX]

get bogens
they aren't expensive
and strong as a tank

Manfrotto stands are also branded as Bogen.

Manfrotto is definitely the manufacturer with the greatest choice. Have a look at their catalogue. After choosing the type that fits your needs best (or evokes your needs...) you could still look at competitors for similar gear.

 

[John Koehrer]

At $44.00 each you can get two of the 10' air cushioned Calumets for less than one Buff.
Calumet also has the 8' cushioned stands for $33.00. If you're using them indoors, most US homes are 8'.
Out doors for stability sandbags can be your friend.(supply your own sand)