Just curious: do you have other strobes or a way to remotely fire the 600EX-RT? You'll need the ST-E3-RT if you want to fire the 600 off-camera with radio control. You can fire it using IR if you have a 7D, 60D or one of the new Rebels, otherwise you'll need an ST-E2 for IR control.
Not familiar with either of these books. I'm sure they are great. But, honestly, today's strobes are so foolproof they don't require a lot of reading to do the basics. Maybe it's just me, but I have to try out different setups myself and see what the light does in order to learn. I've picked up Joe McNally's book, some Strobist guides and another basic lighting book -- all handy for some ideas, but lighting, IMO is something you have to just try. Fortunately, with today's digital, you can get instant feedback and adjust on the fly.
I have nothing for off camera or on camera lighting at this point.
I've started out with a 5D3...got some lenses:
canon 17-40mmL
canon 85mm f/1.8
canon 24-105L kit lens
canon 70-200mm L f/2.8 IS II
Rokinon 14mm f.2.8
I've just been shooting stills so far with natural light...I have some clamp lights I've bought to use as DIY lighting for video, but haven't tried them with still yet....
But was going to start with the 600ex rt...figuring that would be a good place to start..I could at least bounce the light off that off walls and ceiling...
Hoping the 'new' radio controlled analog of the 480 or so will come out soon...but I believe the 600 also has optical so that it could control maybe an older 430/580 if I picked up one of those used...?
But at this point, I have really nothing but natural light and come Home Depot clamp lights I could use....hence, wanting to read and learn about doing lighting...concepts and specific use of flash....
Thanks so far for all the replies!!
That Speedliter's Handbook was put out in 2010...wondering if there is a new version for all the RT stuff coming out soon and worth waiting on?
Well, at very least, maybe I can find a used one somewhere or check the library for now....
Oh heck, I might just get it...I'm about to order one of those ExpoImaging ExpoDisc 77mm Digital White Balance Filters from Amazon...I'll likely throw that book on top of the order....
C