Monoblocs, Mobilites, Portable Fill flash and IR Triggering devices

I use Speed lights primarily for any location lighting. By combining a number of speed lights on remote firing you can get a low powered location lighting setup. For studio work I run Monoblocs as they are completely self contained and don't require a power pack. I haven't played with Mobilites much but I can see their benefits. I use some IR triggering devices from a shutter trigger to a remote flash trigerring. I've since moved from IR to 2.4gig systems.

 

Monobloc

Monoblocs are self contained strobe (flash) lights. They are great for lighting over large spaces as each unit has all circuitry inbuilt and doesn't require a power pack next to it or long cables running over your set but you do need household power or a generator. They are generally more expensive each light compared to mobilite heads so for a complex yet small lighting setup I would probably turn to a power pack and mobilites.

 

Mobilite

Mobilites generally have a separate power pack. They are great for outdoor lighting setups as they can be run of a rechargeable power pack so no need for 240V power outlets. They only downfall being that if there's no 240V source they will only last a single charge so you might need to be mindfull of your power usage if you've got a long outdoor shoot planned. The heads are cheaper to add or replace to your lighting setup but again it does require a power pack large enough to cater for its current draw.

 

Speedlight                                                Reflector

Portable Fill Flash, or speed lights, reflectors, torches etc are they most convenient and cheapest form of low powered lighting to get you started or if your having to lug you gear into remote areas. They can be setup with multiple units/reflectors giving you a fair amount of control with your lighting. Their power output is generally a lot lower than that of a monobloc or mobilite. Saying that though, harnessing the suns rays by using a reflector can be more powerful than the largest flash head you can find. Don't discount the humble reflector.

IR Triggering Devices

IR triggering devices certainly play a large part in location photography. For example a camera can be strapped to a wing tip of an aircraft and the shutter can be fired by an IR trigger held by the pilot. A bank of speed lights can be set of by a triggering device. The downside to IR is it's lack of performance and range in daylight conditions and it's need for direct line of sight from trigger to sensor. A replacement to this is the 2.4gig transmitters being sold. These have an increased range, operate out of 'line of sight' and the available light has no effect on their usage.