So I'm considering taking the dive into the Alien Bee's. I've used photogenics (love them--just don't love the price) and want to get my own set now.

My question is, how much is enough power? Do you find that you wish you had more? Or that you got a lot and it's overkill for what you need?

I'm thinking a pair of 800's right now, but really considering the 16's.

What do you think?

Help a girl out

More Power HMMMmmmhmmm (in the Tim Taylor Tool Time voice)

Seriously though, get the bigger ones. I did a product shoot for white paper on white seamless (don't ask) and appreciated the higher wattage.

Eric

So what was that all about?

One thing to keep in mind is that it's harder to turn them down real low if you need them low. I've thought about getting a couple B400s just for that reason. I haven't had any problems with the B800s. But then there are times I wish I had more power.

You can also put ND filters over them to drop the power if you need to, but if you're ever running on battery power, it wastes a lot of juice.

thanks guys!

I use 3 Quantum Qflashes with 200Ws each, and that's enough for me. I also habe some 500Ws Elinchrom monolights that I didn't ever user in wedding shootings because they are overpowered...

Mario