[scollins]

I stopped by Glazer's today, a local camera shop here in Seattle. I was thinking about different lighting options, so I went to their satellite store which is almost completely dedicated to lighting....

As I'm looking around, I see various light kits, with prices ranging from $300 to thousands. They weren't terribly busy, so I was able to get one of the guys there to talk about the various setups and answer some questions.

They had two Bowens packages that sounded pretty appealing. They both contained lights that have been discontinued due to upgraded models being offered.

The first kit was $679, but unfortunately out of stock and possibly not available anymore (since it has been discontinued.) They thought they might get more in, so I'll check next week. This contained the following:
Bowens Gemini 200 Studio-in-a-Box
* 2 x Gemini 200 w/s Monolights
* 2 x Wide angle reflectors
* 2 x Silver-white umbrellas
* 2 x 7' Light Stands
* 2 x Monoplug to PC sync cord

Throw in a softbox and sales tax and the bill comes to just under $900.

The second kit, which they still had 2 available, was for a Bowens Gemini 500 monolight, stand, umbrella, sync cord AND the Travelpak battery plus a carrying case. These were priced at $799. Considering that Bowens' battery pack alone is usually $500-$600, it seemed like a stellar deal. The idea of being able to use it without AC power nearby was very appealing.

I figured this second kit was a great deal, but would run about $1,000 after adding a softbox and ring, and of course, 9.5% sales tax. I was tempted, but had to bring myself back to reality. Dropping $1,000 on some lighting at my current skill level seemed rather silly. But sometimes I do silly stuff...

Anyway, any particular opinions on Bowens lights? How about other setups? Ideally if I could find a 2 light AC/DC kit with the usual accessories for around $500 (not likely with a battery pack I know) I'd jump on it....

[Pendulum]

The Geminis are great, if you can afford them. I'd say go for it!