Beginner Questions and Equipment Advice

[illuzian]

1. Correct
2. F/8
3. Flash will be important for micro....I think a R1C1 is overkill right now, a sb-600 etc with a way of diffusion would be a good choice

Thanks very much Kiwi - should I go the sb600 or sb700? Would you recommend just one or two or more since they are reasonably affordable? Are there any "good" Aftermarket flashes that are alternatives too?

[kiwi]

Sb900 if you have the budget, purely because I believe it can act as a commander, start with one flash.