distance from plant..

can anyone tell me the distance I should have my 400w mh light from my plants that just came up this week, area is 6ft x2 1/2 x 8ft closet, and just to make sure,, the mh bulb is for veg, and the hps is for flower, correct... I want to have my plant small and tight all the way thru this time but havent tried this yet, help would be apreciated... peace...

Yes MH is for veg and HPS is for flower. As you know the HID lights do get hot so better safe than sorry.

For seedlings, try starting out with a stationary light 3 feet above them and check every few minutes for the first few hours for burn damage. You could probably lower the light about 6 inches every day until the light is about 2 feet above them but keep a careful eye on them. Too far away and they'll start stretching (sucks but at least their alive) - too close and they'll burn and die (which sucks worse!). Each time you lower the light, keep a close eye on them. Any sign of burning and raise the light back up.

You can also hold your hand at the tops of your plants and if it is too hot to hold your hand there - it is too hot for the plants. If you are venting your lights and have a glass reflector cover you could probably bring the light closer.