Cheap lights, good bulb. I also run the home depot lights but found a more color true bulb The GE Q500T3,
Watts: 500W
Volts: 120V
Temperature: 3050°K
Length: 4 11/16", 119mm
Diameter: .44", 11mm
Life: 2000 Hours
Base: R7S dual ended
$ 4 .72 cents at ace hardware.

It is sold and rated for studio use.

Is it possible that batteries set up to inverters or DC lights would be easier?

Something to be aware of when buying a generator is the operating RPM of the motor. Most of the cheaper models need to run at 3600 RPM to generate 60 cycle power. I don't know the exact terminology, but I think this is because there are only two poles in the generator section.

Four pole generators only have to run at 1800 RPM to generate the same 60 cycle power and therefore are inherently quieter and will probably last longer. I have a 5KW Kuboto portable and also a 7KW Onan that are both four pole designs that are much quieter than the typical units sold at the hardware stores.