I have been requested to shoot photos of babies and children (Christmas cards) but have been recently turning people down (I know... omg am I crazy??) due to the fact that I cannot remain outdoors for my candids with ambient light. I NEED to move inside but I don't (yet) have a studio. I would like to buy a softbox that can be set on the table and/or possibly a tripod that is somewhat portable. That way I can move indoors and also travel to clients' houses with my equipment. Is that too much to ask? Does anyone here have a similar situation? I am willing to spend a bit to get the right lighting and I consider it an investment. Let me know your thoughts and ideas and steer me in some direction before I purchase. Thanks!! Jodie :0)

http://www.photomart.co.uk/ProductDetail.asp?ProductCatalogue=BIZ0001

There yer go the complete package in one box

For portrait photography my suggestion would be to have a portable backdrop stand and a white background.   Always a popular choice. Couple this together with a two light set including a softbox. This with the necessary leads etc to connect it all together should get you started.  Most photographic suppliers have a range of starter sets that fold into handy carrybags if you are going to clients to do the shoot.

Good luck with your new venture

very good links onslow!!!

Thank you very much for the link and the ideas. I cannot open the link! :-( I tried 3 times in various ways. However, I live in MN and usually order my supplies through B & H in New York. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/) and will see if I can find what you suggest through them. Thanks again!

EDIT!! I tried the link again after a period of time and it finally opened for me. Looks good! I don't need a printer or ink ribbons etc. but the rest of the list is a great starter package. :-)

Yes, it's a very nice package....

Glad it opened eventually.

Yes I wasn't suggesting a particular one because makes and prices will be different there. A printer is not necessary to start with you are right.

A basic kit usually comprises of 2 lights one with a silvered umbrella one with a white fabric umbrella, stands to put the lights on, all the leads and carry case.  I suggested a backdrop too because if you go to peoples homes it makes it very easy then to set up a small backdrop stand in their living room and you can shoot without having to worry about backgrounds etc. People here seem to like their portraits done on a plain white background too which makes the lighting easy ;)

One of the most sucessful people I know at this books village halls and invites groups eg mother baby groups,  etc.  to come along. Then he can shoot lots in the same place without having to move around too much or alter lighting set ups.  He does give out small prints on the day as he find it encourages people to order the larger framed one ;)

As with all these types of small business it is 90% people and marketing skills and 10% photography skills.

Jodie, here is a small kit but without backdrop.  These lights are quite easy to use. You will want a sync for the camera and a flash meter(good incident/reflected light meter with flash capability).

I can't recommend one kit above another, not enough experience.   I do have alienbees strobes and as I said, easy to set up and use with a little practice.

http://alienbees.com/digi.html

The company provides quick service and good customer support, from my experience.

Best wishes with the project!  Tom.

An age old question here is how much money? You can spend a fortune but some good things  I  can recommend from use and from friends past and present is provided on this link and all great value for money

http://www.mps-photographic.co.uk/studio.htm

from a 'friend' past, I use the  cyberLITE's and e-flash

cyberLITE....Quick, portable and can use from car :)

Thank you all so much.  I knew you guys would come to my rescue.  I just asked one of my profs, too and he said maybe start with an umbrella and add more lights and softbox kit later.  The only brand he came up with before he was interrupted was Chimera. 

Danny, I thought I spent quite a bit on my Manfrotto-Bogen tripod, but I have NEVER regretted it.  So, I know that I will be spending enough to get decent quality that will last or have good resale.

NOW I have homework to do...  and it's my favorite kind, photographer equipment shopping!  Love the links.. you guys are the best.

Hugs to you all, past and present and future friends.

Jodie  :0)

wowwww, excellent links Tom and Dan

That is an excellent link. As yet i dont work with softbox and backdrop. I try and place the child or person in background agreeable to their personality or find a plain wall to use as a back drop. Also i use a lightsphere ii which has been great help. Soften the harshness of flash.
Love to hear what you bought?
Chris