Getting into flash photography can seem a bit daunting. It’s especially daunting when you start looking for flash gear online. What do you need to get started and are on a tight budget? What if you need a bit more? Do I need a softbox or an umbrella? Below is three flash kits for 3 different needs and budgets, and they will work for every camera system! It does not matter if you shoot Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fuji, or Olympus, shooting with these manual flashes will work!

Note attached to my recommendations are affiliate links to amazon where you can purchase the gear if you would like. Amazon sends me a small commission if you decide to purchase any of the gear which costs you nothing extra, and has not affected my recommendations in the least.

Bare Bones Beginner Flash Kit - $150

This kit is for those who want to get into off camera flash but are on the tightest of budgets. This is the kit I started with. Disclaimer I did later buy a new flash bracket and Umbrella when I started using it more for professional use as they are fine for using around the house and with the kids but ultimately it is cheap for a reason. To get you started. Click here to open the whole list in Amazon!

$76 - Youngnuo 560IV Flash - DISCLAIMER: THESE ARE MANUAL FLASHES AND THEREFORE WORK WITH EVERY CAMERA MANUFACTURER REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE SALES PAGE SAYS!
$39 - Youngnuo 560TX Wireless Flash Trigger - for your camera
$30 - Cowboy Studio Light stand, flash bracket, and Umbrella

Hobbyist Flash Kit - $260

This kit has a little more than the entry level kit. Most notably the 24” softbox and creative gel kit. It also includes Higher quality light stands and umbrella. At its core this this the same kit I bring to a wedding.

$180 - 2 Youngnuo 560IV Flashes and Wireless Trigger - DISCLAIMER: THESE ARE MANUAL FLASHES AND THEREFORE WORK WITH EVERY CAMERA MANUFACTURER REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE SALES PAGE SAYS!
$25 - 2 Neewer 7ft Flash Stands
$36 - Neewer 24” Softbox with Flash Bracket
$20 - Westcott 45” Umbrella (The larger the umbrella the softer the light)
$16 - 2 Light Stand Flash Brackets
$15 - Creative Flash Gel Kit
$24 - 8 Rechargeable High Capacity AA Batteries AND 8 Bay Charger

Click Here to open all of the Items in Amazon

Complete Home Studio Flash Kit - $720

This kit is focused on quality and performance. From the heavy duty light stands to the all metal construction flash brackets. In this kit is everything you need to create amazing images with flash and it will last for years to come! Aside from the Reflector arm, this is THE kit I use in my portrait and wedding photography every day and can personally recommend every piece of gear in this kit to last!