In addition to the musicians, members of the band, and stage crew, we owe a debt of gratitude to the concert photographers who captured these performers in their environment in venues all over the world, from stadiums and festivals to little music venues. This article is all about the best lenses for concert photography for music lovers all around the world.
The breadth of energy that reverberates at these performances needs to be captured by a concert photographer, from the vitality of the crowd to a performer bouncing in delight.
Therefore, what kind of lenses are currently attached to their cameras?
You might be surprised to learn that a concert photographer’s lens arsenal is quite straightforward. Check out our selections for the best lens for concert photography, which includes an all-purpose zoom, wide angle, telephoto, and even some incredible lenses for when you can’t get that media pass!
Top 5 Lenses for Concert Photography Review
Table could not be displayed.Here are the 5 best lenses for concert photography. Check out the camera lens review with features to see what matches your need.
Sony SEL2470GM E-Mount Camera Lens(best sony lenses for concert photography)
The top-of-the-line lenses from Sony for Alpha mirrorless systems are known as G-Master lenses and are designed to be stylish and durable. So there was much excitement in the music photography community when the Sony 24-70mm F/2.8 G-Master was revealed and subsequently released.
Sony’s rendition of this well-liked focal length is incredibly sharp and clear, producing precise autofocusing outcomes that nearly give the impression that one can shoot without looking!
An occasional bump won’t harm anything because of the construction’s strength and durability. This particular 24-70mm may be tailored to how you work, thanks to the lens’s programmable button, allowing you to easily access certain settings. You can count on the original brand lens to perform flawlessly. That’s why this is the best sony lens for concert photography.
Despite having an F/2.8 aperture, this lens does not have image stabilization, which is a little disappointing. In stark contrast, there is observable chromatic aberration and ocular distortion, but in most cases, this can be corrected in post-processing.
Pros
- High-quality gasket sealing and extremely robust
- This world-class sharpness
- Focused quickly and precisely
- Easy to use
Cons
- Contains chromatic aberration
- Possesses some optical distortion
Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens
Compact lenses that don’t take up much space in your kit bag have a lot to recommend. With only 350g, the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G is the ideal choice. That is just half as heavy as Nikon’s more powerful AF-S 85mm f/1.4G lens, which is also surprisingly small and light for an 85mm prime with such a fast aperture.
The f/1.8 lens, on the other hand, is pleasantly affordable for a Nikon’s own-brand lens at less than a quarter of the price of its sister, in contrast to the f/1.4 lens.
For an 85mm prime lens, the least focus distance of 0.8m is very average, allowing for the highest magnification factor of 0.124x.
The fact that the aperture diaphragm is built on seven rather than nine blades is uncommon for this class of lens. This increases the chance that the aperture won’t be as evenly rounded when you slow down. The mounting plate has a rubber weather seal and is of good build quality.
With the exception of the edges at the widest aperture, the majority of the frame is impressively sharp. Although it only has seven diaphragm blades, the f/1.8 lens’s bokeh is remarkably smooth and even stopped down a little; the points of light maintain their general roundness.
Pros
- Minimalistic and light
- solid construction
- Exceptional performance
- excellent picture stabilizer
Cons
- Not completely weatherproofed
NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Zoom Lens(best lenses for concert photography nikon)
The Nikkor Z 24-70mm model lens is a perfect choice for some special reasons. Even though it has all the functionality of a traditional short zooming range, calling it a kit lens does it a disservice. With a wide variety of features that will sharpen images on different occasions, portability and the right aperture, this is the best lens for concert photography.
The Nikon Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S and Nikon Nikkor Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S are one of the best lenses in the company’s ecology. This version is one of the first lenses released for the Z-brand of the Nikon company.
With the least amount of bother possible, the Nikkor Z 24-70mm is an excellent lens. The lens doesn’t extend when zooming from closer to farther focal lengths, unlike its less expensive f/4 predecessor, so while it starts off at a respectable 5 inches, that’s the longest it can go. Even though it’s less portable, this makes it even better in severe weather.
In addition to the conventional layout, which uses the inner ring for focal length and the outer ring for focusing, you also have an extra button that may be modified as desired. The aperture is managed by a discrete camera ring as well.
As with other Nikon lenses, there is a button that allows you to fast switch from autofocus to manual focus option; this feature is helpful for tripod users who would prefer not to have to look at the screen while making quick corrections.
Pros
- Similar to the DSLR variant in style
- optical distortion-free
- It is possible to focus closer by utilizing macro magnification
- ultra-clear outcomes
Cons
- Expensive
- The control ring might be overly delicate
Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 Sports DG OS HSM
The Sport line from Sigma is well known for being nearly indestructible, which is fantastic for use at concerts.
The most recent model in their Sport line, the Sigma 70-200mm F/2.8 Sport, is yet another potent workhorse companion for the serious photographer. Even though this lens is a little bulkier than other 70-200mm variants, it can withstand the worst abuse and still be completely satisfied. Its inbuilt zoom prevents the barrel from extending as you work, and the sharpness is indisputable.
The body itself has a ton of buttons and functions, in addition to being well-built to keep focus razor-sharp.
It’s unfortunate that this lens is only compatible with DSLR mounts, but with converters, it can also be used with Canon RF, Nikon Z, and Sony E-mount cameras. Nevertheless, this lens has image stabilization, which greatly aids the F/2.8 aperture.
Pros
- This lens embodies the word “durability.”
- optical performance that is astounding and precise
- with picture stabilization
- has a built-in zoom, so zooming does not cause it to enlarge
Cons
- bulky and hefty
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens(best lens for concert photography canon)
The quickest standard zoom lens for Canon EF-S mount DSLR cameras is the EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM. The Canon EF-S 17-55mm, with an equivalent focal length of 27-88mm, features a fast constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the zoom range and a USM motor for quiet, quick, and smooth auto-focusing.
The build quality of this concert photography lens is adequate but not exceptional, as one might expect at this price point. It feels sturdy in your hands to hold the Canon photography lens. You would surely love the feel and grip of this lens while having a lengthy photography session.
You would also like the easy-to-use features of this concert lens. With that, the operation is made easier by the focusing ring’s ridged, rubberized grip band, despite the fact that it is somewhat narrow. A handy distance scale in detail is also present on the barrel of the lens body.
The image stabilization of the Canon EF-S camera lens provides a benefit of up to three f-stops over lenses without using any extra stabilizer. If you are photographing in a place where there will be some gathering, this might be a very efficient option to have with the lenses themselves.
Also, use the feature using the button on the lens’s side is used to turn this feature on. TheIS technology of this model can detect panning movement if the camera itself is capable enough. It makes videography a lot easier. You can use panning and IS modes from the lens according to your needs.
With the price point, the features, stabilization and image clarity make it a solid challenge for concert photography.
Pros
- Fast
- consistent
- provides precise autofocus
- generous maximum aperture of f/2.8
Cons
- for an APS-C lens, large
- Lack of weather seals
How to Choose a Lens for Concert Photography
Photography in live concerts is quite challenging. The concert halls are darkened, so only a high-quality camera and photography skills won’t be enough to shoot the life clearly. You will need proper equipment, high-powered lenses, and other quality camera gear.
Before purchasing the best concert photography lens, consider some things as the lens requirements are slightly different from wildlife or another type of photography.
What are the Most Important Features
concert photography lens requires a maximum aperture option, fast focus, image stabilization, long reach, and more. However, these features are also needed in wildlife or another type of photography, so choosing the best type of lens is worth the money.
Wide Aperture
Almost every concert venue is darkened or low light, where a large and maximum aperture is needed. The ideal aperture range is f/1.2 to f/2.8. Shooting pictures with the maximum aperture is crucial to getting better images in low light conditions.
A wide aperture opens the maximum sensor access to maximize the low light to reach the sensor. However, a wide aperture also blurs unnecessary details so that the main focus will be sharper. Remember, the focal length should not be sacrificed too much.
Autofocus
Concert means much moving objects, so the lens should have a fast, smooth, and highly advanced autofocus system to get clear footage. Sometimes you have to change the focus quickly, and sometimes the lighting could be high and low, so having multiple AF points give extra benefits. Set the focus range limiter in the ideal depth to quickly switch from auto to manual focus.
Use the back button focus feature to focus and release at the same time.
Long Zoom Range
Fixed lenses and multiple focal lengths are good lenses for concert photography. Shorter focal lengths are great for small venues, and longer are for bigger venues.
So the zoom range depends on your needs. However, lightings are the main factor in using the focal length and aperture. 200mm to 300mm lenses with f/5.6 aperture are a good choice for concert photography.
Strong Body
A concert is a chaotic situation, and you have to move a lot. Accidents can happen anytime, so having a strong, durable, weather-sealed body will help your lens from sudden falls, spilling a drink, kicking, hitting, slamming, and more.
Lenses for concerts are expensive, so it’s better to keep them and save as much as you can. So, before buying the lens, check the build quality and also check some other users’ reviews to be extra careful.
Shutter Speed for Concert Photography
Shutter speed is another crucial factor in capturing video and photos in large stadiums with lots of moving people. When the light is powerful, and the area is big, choose 1/250 or higher.
If the concert area is small with dim lights, choose 1/100-1/200 to get the perfect footage. 1/100-1/200 shutter speed also gives Incredible and sharp optical performance.
Using a faster shutter speed is challenging when you want to freeze the motion. To increase the shutter speed when needed without changing or affecting the settings.
The versatility of the Photography Lens
Surely you are not going only one concert with your lenses. Choose a lens that has enough shutter speed, aperture, focal length, and zoom, so you can use it with several concerts, whether it is in big or small areas.
Image Stabilization
The most modern camera has built-in image stabilization, so you don’t have to use extra for your lenses. But don’t rely too much on that. You can expand the capability by using an extra stabilization system with the lenses to increase the ISO. However, the shutter speed will be low.
Higher ISO
Concert photography needs a higher iso to capture the moment with perfect light. Normally an ISO setting should be 100, and increase it to 500 when the lights are low. Then increase the ISO up to 3200 depending on the condition.
Other Additional Equipment
Different company provides different additional equipment, so it is better to choose one that has the most quality equipment with the lenses. Choose SQD cards instead of SD and CF cards. SQD cards are great for shooting the whole concert.
Also, SD card holders, body straps, and earplugs are important to use. Sd card holder will keep the memory card safe, body straps make you comfortable to hold bulky and heavy lenses, and earplugs will reduce the loudness. Some company provides them and, if not, purchase them separately.
FAQ on Concert Photography Lenses
Let us look at some important questions with our brief answers on the lenses that are used in concert photography and videography:
What type of lens is best for concert photography?
Ans: Purchase a reliable DSLR camera first. Despite the fact that point-and-shoot cameras may be capable of completing the task, DSLRs provide more lens options. It really doesn’t matter which brand you pick. It matters that you feel at ease using it and that you have access to a wide range of lenses to use with it. Two of the most widely used camera brands among concert photographers are Canon and Nikon.
Is a 35mm lens good for concert photography?
Ans: Short answer: Yes! The 35mm focal length works well for concert photography, but only if the venue is modest to medium-sized and allows you to get close enough to the stage. But in wider circumstances, the lenses might struggle to capture the whole view of the concerts.
Your tele zoom lenses would come in very handy if you ended up in a large arena or stadium where you had to stand further away. So, considering the area and environment, a 35 MM lens can come in handy.
How do I make my concert pictures sharper?
Ans: The right way to shoot wide or normal-angle concert photos is with Aperture mode set to Evaluative metering and slightly adjusted exposure (-1 to -2 stops) in order to make the background dark. This method works well in almost every situation, as the lighting is usually theatrical-style and often very ark.
Conclusion
The general consensus is that you should have several different lenses because one won’t cut them. We sincerely hope that this list of the best lenses for concert photography will assist you in locating the photography equipment you need to document the captivating world of live music. Stay with us for more updates.
Related Post: How to take care of camera lenses.
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