Toronto Photography Meetup Group

So I'm thinking of ways to improve and learn about photographic techniques, not for any particular reason (e.g. become wedding photog) but just as a hobby.

And I think I'm quite motivated to try off-camera flash techniques.

But what holds me back is the cost of the setup, and the accompanying inconvenience. I know that I can get cheap wireless triggers for less than $50, but that would mean having to mess around with manual flash, which would seriously slow down the shooting. Also, I get the impression that to do it properly, I would need things like light modifiers and stands to support these things. Once again, something that would detract from the spontaneity of photography that I prefer. Not to mention, setting up an umbrella and light stand outside would attract so much attention.

So, my questions are:
1. How much satisfaction and improvement in imagery could I get from a single wireless bare flash, supported in my hands while outdoors (no assistant) or attached to a gorrillapod (I have that) while indoors?
1a. If that is the case, would I be better off getting something like a Flash Zebra 1m off camera shoe cord, that would allow me full ETTL and HSS?
2. Do I really need the umbrellas/softboxes etc?
3. Is it inevitable that I will have to get more than 1 flash?
4. I know OCF can be used well for portraiture and product photography; I do a bit of portraiture (family members), but no product photography. What else would be a good application of OCF?
5. Anything else I should know/think of as I approach OCF?

Anybody have a set of Yongnuo CTR-301Ps that you want to sell as you upgrade?

2 or 3 cheap flashes from Henry surplus plus cheap tripods, home made better bounce cards, gels and wireless trigger that work with older flash units and you are ready to go.

Hand holding the flash somewhat defeats the purpose and is only good for some fill. The idea would be to take the time to set up a specific small area and to shot on manual within this area. The light should not change if you don't move the flashes or go out of the area so you shouldn't have to be continually changing camera settings.

check TSG out:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/487531@N21/

come out to our events and ask your questions from fellow Strobists.