Hey Michelle And now the fun begins. Glad to hear you're going for it. I'm using alien bees for my own personal use right now. The price was right and came recommended from some shooters I know. However, seeing as how I am getting my 10D next month I am also going to switch over to continuous lighting when more funds are available. But for now the bees are doing great for me. They're light and easy to set up, thinking about the battery for them so I don't have to worry about cords getting tripped over. At work we use photogenics, I like them but don't like the price tag. But, personally, I think one light, one of those white, silver, gold and black reflectors and a stand to hold the reflector and a good meter and you'd be set until you decide what you really need and want or decide you don't need more than that (but I doubt it, one can never have too many toys). And you can easily get all those for under $700 and get good quality as well. Best of Luck :) Doug