Hi Everyone;

I have been quiet about my progress toward indoor pet photography but have been making some progress. Yesterday I purchased a four light set of Photogenic Photomaster lights (plus an extra powerpack) and today I agree to rent a studio space near my home-there is no room in my little apartment for photography and the studio was cheaper than renting a larger apartment.

I purchased two powerpacks for the lights so that I can keep the wires from crossing from one side of the room to the other. The extra powerpack also gives me greater power for the heads. I can select from 400 w/s, 200 w/s or 100 w/s. For my smallish studio, I think this will be a good starting point. I had planned to purchase Alien Bees but this was a much better deal. I am also familiar with Photogenic as this is the brand I used back in the 70's in my portrait studio. I plan to use the four lights as main (with umbrella or softbox), fill (with umbrella), and two background lights; I also have an extra flash I will use for a hair light or extra background light.

To start with, I plan to hang three rolls of paper for backdrops: black, white and gray. Maybe later I will move into muslin backdrops.

I am thinking of building a stage in my studio, maybe 2 feet high, semi-permanent; very strong and sturdy. This will allow me to have the dogs and pets at a slight elevation without my needing to lay on the floor to take eye-level shots; any thoughts from others? Size-I am thinking of a 4 ft by 8 ft stage, one to two feet off the ground. On this stage could also go various props like baskets, posing table, etc.

Your thoughts are most welcome.