JLinkowitz wrote:
I think I'm all but decided to go the route of the AB800, medium sized softbox, vagabond II and the cheaper wireless triggers from Paul Bluff as they have had solid reviews.
{Jim}
I just ordered the EXACT same setup. I've had the AB800 for a few years now, but I just ordered a Vagabond2, cybersync triggers, and a collapsible soft box. Oh and an extra flash bulb just in case. A guest tripped over my light last season and my heart nearly stopped because I didn't have an extra bulb with me.
I use WL strobes indoors because I can usually find outlets, and I have some little speedlights for portable outdoor use. It depends on the look you want, of course... the speedlights probably aren't powerful enough outdoors if you use modifiers.
Two AB800s will fit into a duffle bag (I got mine from Digital Juice, with room left over for some grids and gels. The Vagabound and these strobes go with me to all weddings. The Vagabound was a lifesave last year at least two times. At a huge, dark church, just as altar shots got under way, a storm rolled through and the power went out. At a reception I had to shoot a bunch of family groups in a very dark room. All the tables were set up leaving little space for shooting, forcing the strobe into the middle of the hall far from any outlets on the walls (and I did not want to run cords for people to trip over. The battery allowed me to power up and start shooting in a matter of seconds.
The biggest issue with the ABs is the light consistency. Can vary 1/2 stop from shot to shot, and with it, the color. So it is not going to cure any PP issues.
I use PWs. A good investment as they also work with my Hensel outfit and SB800s.
Well yesterday when I posted I was set to order the setup I mentioned above...After much reading, googling, and even youtubing (and talking with fellow FMers) I'm not sure I will go this route. Might just go with some hot shoe adapters for my current flashes, some stands and umbrellas, along with the triggers. Give it a go, and see how I like using additional lights...Then re-visit the idea of the vagabond/AB800 next year. I want to jump in, but not get too far over my head as I think the AB800/Vagabond setup could be an overkill for many of my situations, to this date I haven't had any issues with getting my exposures correct and what not, but I want to imrpove the overall style of the image with the light.
