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Originally Posted by Pete-KT
whats better an umbrela light and reflect the light or a softbox and point it at the model?
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I think that the answer to this will only truly come to you with experience. either can be fine when used properly, but will give different results.
A 24x36 softbox, for example, when placed about 1 meter from your model will give a much softer (less shadows) image than if you move the softbox 3 meters away. Or, more simply stated, the further the light source from the subject, the more specular the lighting.
As the light source approaches the subject(model) the shadows will become softer and the light will wrap around the model.
Tony404's suggestion of finding a good book is exactly what I would tell you as well. Flash photography is not as simple as people think, at least not if you're doing it well. And two lights are better than one, and three better than two, etc, but only when you understand what each of them are doing.
I would also agree with newbreed that the 800's are going to be too much if you are shooting in close quarters. However, you can always add a neutral density filter to your lens or a ND gel to your light. These are available from AlienBees as well, but I'd look to a local lighting supply place as they are probably cheaper.
Also keep in mind that since you are using a Rebel XT that you do not have a sync for it. I would recommend the Nikon AS-15. It works with the Canon camera and is better quality than others. You can pick one up for $20-$25 at a good camera shop.