2 strobes or 1

I though I would create a new post for this one.

I spoke to the Ikelite Re-seller in the UK and told them I was diving in the maldives with 20D. And they advised me 1 DS-125 strobe. When I asked if one was enough his thoughs were I would see very little difference putting extra power in the strobe.

mtbottle, very kindly posted a standard entry level setup for the 20D. In the list he said 2xDS125 strobes.

Now i'm confused. I would appreciate everyone opinion on how much difference the 2 strobes will make?

Many Thanks

Danny

Danny,

I’ve moved your topic into the lightning section to get better exposure.

Two strobes are not just a question of brighter light output. It’s more a question of coverage and shadows as well.

What lenses do you intend to shoot initially?

Julian

I've heard some people say that they really like to shoot with just one strobe. And I've seen some great results with people shooting with one as well.

Personally, I started out shooting one strobe and shot with that to try to get the basics down. In an attempt to cut down on being overwhelmed with variables I waited to add the second strobe until I found the lack of a second strobe was the primary element that would enhance the shot. I'd estimate I found that in some images after about 10 dives.

And then I started using two. I've been using two ever since ~80 dives. Personally I prefer having two light sources. Even if one is just ever so slight of a fill flash, IMHO it really makes a huge difference in some of my shots.

When I screw up and the second flash is off target, so that I'm only really getting the benefit of one flash, it's usually a costly mistake.

It's not so much about the power, it's the ability to have two light sources and have them coming from different angles.

Hi I'm sure you have read my posting in the message below this one on the list

The More paints you have the better art you are able to make

As julian Said, its a matter of covering the lens you have.

its no use having 1x if your trying to cover a 10mm lens.

I tend to use one strobe when shooting Macro as i can create some nice shadows with direct over the top light from a single gun

but i'd never shoot wide with one strobe.

Underwater wide shots tend to have more than one subject, you going to need two lights to tackle 2 subjects and light it correctly.

Not sure what stage of photography you are at, but we all must start at some point.

if you can only afford 1x strobe then use that as best you can, i recommend that you use a aiming light with one strobe so that your placement is correct.

I've just come back from the Maldives and found that my 18-70mm was very good, small life out there is limited but larger pleagics are plentyful

happy shooting & have a great time

craig