Flash stands

[jon-]

I've found these on ebay, cheap cheerful and do the job as they're just about tall enough (2m) for what I want.

Are these the ones to go for, or does anyone know of any better alternatives?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2-X-REDHEAD-FLASH-STUDIO-2-M...

[Simpo Two]

They look OK to me. They will probably have plastic fittings though, so not suitable for heavy/pro use.

[jon-]

Rated to 2.5kgs so would get a small light and umbrella on there if needed in the future.

[GFWilliams]

I bought these a little while back.

Don't buy them.

The fittings become loose very quickly, even with licktight added. (this happens over a shoot and is very annoying.

The base area of the stands is too small, so they are always close to falling over. Also annoying.

Cheap though...

[Snapper7]

I use Manfrotto Stands and I always opt for the Master Stand as a minimum. Anything lighter and you are risking your studio Heads. There is nothing worse than seeing someone cut back the small amount of extra money that it costs to upgrade to a Master Stand, only to see them watch a £ 300-400 studio head take a tumble.
http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/lang...

After the Master Stand or for using my lights outside I use the Manfrottos Avenger A475B.
http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cach...

I also use the G200 Sandbags to stop stands from blowing over in the wind
http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/pid/...

The Stands are used with Elinchrom heads and Ranger system. http://www.elinchrom.com/

I also get all my studio equipment from the Flash Center in Birmingham
http://www.theflashcentre.com/

Hope that helps

[LongQ]

Snapper7 said:

I also get all my studio equipment from the Flash Center in Birmingham
http://www.theflashcentre.com/

Top people and very helpful.

[IanMorewood]

Wont hold a head and decent sized softbox so I wouldn't.

[jon-]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I can't believe how expensive some of the items are like softboxes, I'd love to work with that kind of markup in my industry!

High end photography equipment is starting to remind me of high end audio...

[Simpo Two]

jon- said:

Thanks for the feedback guys. I can't believe how expensive some of the items are like softboxes, I'd love to work with that kind of markup in my industry!

High end photography equipment is starting to remind me of high end audio...

You have to find a balance. If you use the kit every day and have clients breathing down your neck you can't afford to take chances. If however you're just pootling about in a home studio every now and then, it doesn't matter so much. For the latter, I'm sure the stands you mention will do the job - I suspect the bases open out wider than shown.