I like Alien Bees and White Lightning Strobes, I don't like their light stands (cheap). I used to use Bogen Light Stands but when I bought a portable background stand (morris) I fell in love with their stands. So now I use Morris stands, Morris background holder, White Lightning Strobes, Wescott Umbrellas (never use umbrellas outside unless you like the idea of the wind blowing over your light stands). I use muslin backgrounds because they can be washed after the dogs get mud, hair, etc. all over them.