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9 Best Lenses for Concert Photography in 2024

Last updated: March 7, 2024 - 13 min read
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If you want to capture the energy and emotion of a live performance, you need the best lenses for concert photography. With so many options available, finding the best concert lens can be a challenge. But our guide has nine of the best lenses for concert photography, highlighting lenses that perform well in the dynamic yet low-light conditions of concerts.

Our top pick is the Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, chosen for its versatile zoom range and quick autofocus. This lens allows photographers to capture everything from wide stage shots to close-ups of performance without changing lenses. 

But if that’s not the lens for you, we have eight more incredible lenses for concert photography. 

Our Top 3 Lenses for Concert Photography
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S

What Is the Best Lens for Concert Photography?

When selecting the best lens for concert photography, zoom range, autofocus speed, and picture clarity are all important factors to consider.

Brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Panasonic, and Sigma all offer lenses that excel in capturing the dynamic nature of live performances.

These lenses are chosen for their ability to handle low light, provide sharp images across various focal lengths, and quickly adjust to the fast-paced environment of concerts.

Our Top Pick
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
  • Versatile 10x zoom range for diverse shots
  • Nano USM motor for quick, silent focusing
  • Up to 5 stops image stabilization benefit
  • Compact, lightweight design for easy handling
  • Broad compatibility with Canon EOS R series
Best Canon DSLR Lens
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
  • Constant f/4 aperture for consistent exposure control
  • L-series durability with weather sealing
  • 4-stop image stabilization enhances low-light performance
  • Versatile zoom range for varied photography genres
  • Superior optical quality with minimal aberrations
Best Nikon Mirrorless Lens
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
  • Constant f/4 aperture for consistent exposure levels
  • Professional-grade build with weather sealing
  • 5x zoom versatility for wide to telephoto shots
  • Dual stepping motors ensure fast, silent autofocus
  • Exceptional sharpness and minimal aberrations across zoom range
Best Nikon DSLR Lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm F/4G IF-ED VR
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm F/4G IF-ED VR
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm F/4G IF-ED VR
  • Constant f/4 aperture across entire zoom range
  • Vibration Reduction (VR) for steady handheld shots
  • Versatile 5x zoom for wide to telephoto
  • Superior optical design minimizes aberrations
  • Durable build with weather-resistant features
Best Sony Full Frame Lens
Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G
Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G
Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G
  • Constant f/4 aperture for consistent light capture
  • Optical SteadyShot stabilization for sharp, handheld images
  • G Series optical quality ensures superior clarity
  • Versatile 24-105mm range for diverse shooting scenarios
  • Dust and moisture resistant for reliability in field
Best Sony APS-C Lens
Sony E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS SEL18135
Sony E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS SEL18135
Sony E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS SEL18135
  • High zoom range (27-202.5mm equivalent) for versatility
  • Optical SteadyShot for blur-free images
  • Compact and lightweight design enhances portability
  • Fast, precise autofocus system for sharp results
  • Exceptional image quality across the zoom range
Best Fujifilm Lens
Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR
Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR
Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture for superior low-light performance
  • Weather-resistant design for shooting in harsh conditions
  • Triple linear motor for fast, silent autofocus
  • Optical Image Stabilization reduces camera shake
  • Exceptional sharpness and image quality across the range
Best Panasonic Lens
Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm F/2.8
Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm F/2.8
Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm F/2.8
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance
  • Rugged build with weather sealing for durability
  • Fast, precise autofocus with dual focus system
  • 11-blade diaphragm for beautiful bokeh effects
  • Versatile 24-70mm range for various photography styles
Best Sigma Lens
Sigma 56mm F/1.4 DC DN | C
Sigma 56mm F/1.4 DC DN | C
Sigma 56mm F/1.4 DC DN | C
  • Wide f/1.4 aperture for exceptional low-light performance
  • Compact and lightweight design enhances portability
  • High-resolution image quality across the frame
  • Smooth and pleasing bokeh for portrait photography
  • Fast and accurate autofocus system for sharp images
 

Our Favorite Lenses for Concert Photography

Let’s take a closer look at our favorite lenses for concert photography. From wide-angle zooms to fast primes, this selection provides plenty of lenses that can capture live performances with precision and quality. Whether you’re shooting in low light or looking for stunning detail, there’s a lens here for any concert photographer.

1. Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM

Our Top Pick
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Brand
Brand
Canon
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
750 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
24-240 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes

The Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM lens is a versatile choice for concert photography, offering a broad zoom range that covers wide shots of the stage to close-ups of performers. Whether you’re shooting from the side of the stage or the press pit, you’ll be able to snap detailed shots of the artists. 

Its 10x zoom capability gives photographers excellent flexibility with compositions, which is useful in the dynamic environment of a concert.

However, the variable aperture of f/4-6.3 is not the best in low light, especially when zoomed in. But it does have built-in image stabilization. This gives you five extra stops of exposure compensation, giving you sharper results in low light. 

Autofocus speed is a strong point for this lens, with the Nano USM motor providing quick and accurate focusing. This is important for capturing sharp images of fast-moving subjects on stage.

The Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is a good option for concert photographers looking for flexibility. The low-light performance might be off-putting for some. But the versatility, affordability, and image quality make it a superb lens for shooting live music and theatre. 

 

2. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM

Best Canon DSLR Lens
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Brand
Brand
Canon
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
795 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
24-105 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes

The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens is a good choice for concert photography if you have a Canon DSLR camera.

The flexibility of its zoom range is key in a concert setting. Photographers can capture the entire stage setting or shoot individual band members from afar. 

An f/4 aperture isn’t the fastest on the list. It still gives you decent light intake and is constant throughout the zoom range. That means you get the same level of exposure control at 24mm as you do at 105mm. 

Built-in image stabilization gives you even more support in low light. Providing four stops of compensation, it allows you to work with slower shutter speeds with less risk of motion blur. 

The lens also provides good sharpness across the frame, although some edge softness may appear at wider apertures. Chromatic aberration and distortion are well-controlled throughout the focal range. 

An Air Sphere coating reduces glare and ghosting, which is helpful when shooting under intense stage lighting. 

Its quick and reliable AF motor ensures you never miss a moment. Weighing 1.7 lbs (795 g), it’s relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle during long shooting sessions. 

A versatile lens with decent low-light performance, the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM is a great choice for live music lovers. 

 

3. Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S

Best Nikon Mirrorless Lens
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Brand
Brand
Nikon
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
630 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
24-120 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens is a solid choice for concert photography shot with a Nikon mirrorless camera.

Its versatile zoom range allows photographers to capture both wide stage scenes and intimate performer details. This lens’s ability to quickly adjust framing without swapping lenses is a big advantage, keeping photographers ready for any moment.

The lens’s edge-to-edge sharpness ensures that every detail is captured clearly. You might detect the slightest hint of distortion, but only at the extremes of the focal range. 

Its constant f/4 aperture, while not the widest available, still performs adequately in low-light situations common in concert settings. It’s also constant, so you don’t lose any stops when you zoom in.

However, unlike the previous lens, this lens does not have optical stabilization. Thankfully, most Nikon mirrorless models do have built-in stabilization, so you will have some support in low light. 

Autofocus is both quick and precise, a must-have for tracking fast-moving subjects under the ever-changing lights of a concert.

This lens is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, reducing fatigue during long shooting sessions. Its build quality and weather sealing offer peace of mind when shooting outdoor gigs and festivals.

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is a good option for concert photographers looking for flexibility, reliability, and image quality. 

 

4. Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G IF-ED VR

Best Nikon DSLR Lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm F/4G IF-ED VR
Brand
Brand
Nikon
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
710 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
24-120 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes

The Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G IF-ED VR is as a versatile lens for concert photography, offering a wide to telephoto zoom range that is perfect for capturing the full scope of live performances.

Its constant f/4 aperture allows for effective low-light shooting and decent bokeh effects, which is crucial for isolating performers from busy backgrounds. The lens’s Vibration Reduction (VR) feature is also helpful in low-light conditions, providing up to four stops of stabilization.

Several Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements ensure sharpness throughout the focal range. Images remain distortion-free at nearly all points from 24mm to 120mm. 

Weighing 1.5 lbs (710 g), it’s leaning towards the heavy end. But it’s still manageable and not too taxing on your arms, even if you’re covering long performances.

The Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G IF-ED VR offers a good balance of flexibility, image quality, and handling. It’s a versatile zoom lens concert photographers will love.

 

5. Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS

Best Full Frame Sony Lens
Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
663 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
24-105 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes

The Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS is the best full frame Sony lens for concert photography. A wide zoom range gives you a wide shot variety, helping you shoot from the crowd or the stage. 

A mix of aspherical and ED elements combat distortion and chromatic aberration, giving you sharp images at any focal length. A Nano coating also prevents lens flare, reducing the negative effects of harsh stage lighting. 

Its constant f/4 aperture is fast enough for most concerts. It’s constant throughout the zoom range. And the built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) image stabilization gives you extra support when you’re low on light. 

A Direct Drive Super Sonic wave Motor (DDSSM) gives you super-quick AF coverage. You’ll be able to capture all those blink-and-you-miss-it moments.

This lens is relatively light and easy to handle, reducing fatigue during long events. It’s also dust and moisture-resistant, allowing you to cover outdoor events. 

The Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS is a superb lens for live music events. It’s versatile and brings the most out of your Sony camera’s high-resolution sensor. 

 

6. Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS

Best APS-C Sony Lens
Sony E 18-135mm F/3.5-5.6 OSS SEL18135
Brand
Brand
Sony
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
325 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
18-135 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes

The Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is the best concert lens for Sony APS-C cameras. It’s a fabulous all-in-one lens that gives you incredible flexibility without compromising on image quality. 

A variable aperture is never ideal, especially when you’re limited to f/5.6 at 135mm. But the (OSS) stabilization gives you a helping hand when you’re struggling for light. Offering four stops of compensation, you can capture sharp shots with slower shutter speeds. 

Autofocus is responsive even in low light, ensuring that fleeting moments on stage are not missed.

This lens is light enough to handle comfortably during long concerts. And the compact size makes it an easy fit for any good camera backpack.

The Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is a good, budget-friendly option for concert photographers who need flexibility. Whether you’re in the crowd or the press pit, this lens delivers sharp concert images. 

 

7. Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR

Best Fujifilm Lens
Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR
Brand
Brand
Fujifilm
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
995 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
50-140 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
Yes

The Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR is a top choice for concert photography, offering a fast f/2.8 aperture that excels in low light conditions.

This zoom lens provides the flexibility needed to capture scenic shots of the venue or close-ups of the performers.

A fast f/2.8 maximum aperture gives you excellent low-light performance. And as a constant max aperture, you get the same fantastic low-light performance at any point in the zoom range. 

Its optical image stabilization is another bonus for concert photographers, ensuring sharp images even in challenging lighting. 

Autofocus is both quick and precise, crucial for keeping up with the dynamic nature of live performances.

Weighing 2.19 lbs (995 g), it is rather hefty. It still fits in your camera backpack, but you might need to take breaks from holding it to avoid fatigue. One positive is the thorough weather sealing, which ensures you can work outdoors without issue. 

The Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 combines high-quality optics with the durability needed for professional use. It’s the perfect concert photography lens for Fujifilm users. 

 

8. Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm f/2.8

Best Panasonic Lens
Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm F/2.8
Brand
Brand
Panasonic LUMIX
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
935 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
24-70 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No

The Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm f/2.8 is a robust choice for concert photography, blending versatility with high optical performance. The wide-to-short telephoto zoom range gives you plenty of flexibility and creative control when shooting live music events.

Its constant f/2.8 aperture is ideal for low-light conditions. And as a constant aperture, you get the same excellent exposure control from 24mm to 70mm.

Autofocus is swift and reliable, ensuring sharp images of fast-moving subjects. It’s another heavy lens, but the robust build can withstand the demands of professional use. This lens’s weather sealing adds confidence when shooting in less-than-ideal conditions, making it a dependable tool for concert photographers.

Much of the heft comes from the 18 glass elements within the lens’s barrel. These include aspherical, ED, and Ultra ED elements, which is why the picture quality is so crisp and clean at any focal length. 

Its optical quality and fast aperture make the Panasonic LUMIX S Pro 24-70mm f/2.8 a great choice for serious concert photographers. 

 

9. Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN | C

Best Sigma Lens
Sigma 56mm F/1.4 DC DN | C
Brand
Brand
Sigma
Lens Weight
Lens Weight
280 g
Maximum Aperture
Maximum Aperture
f/ 1.4
Focal Length Range
Focal Length Range
56 mm
Image Stabilization
Image Stabilization
No

The Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN | C is a beautiful prime lens for concert photography. It doesn’t offer the versatility of a zoom lens. But with exceptional sharpness and a super-fast aperture, it’s a great choice for music lovers. 

A 56mm focal length offers good shot variety. You won’t be able to shoot close-ups from long distances. But you can shoot wide shots of the stage and venue. Or you can snap individual band members if you can access the front of the stage. 

The super-fast f/1.4 aperture is a godsend for concert photography. With exceptional low-light performance, you can use faster shutter speeds to freeze the on-stage action. It also allows you to create a lovely blurred bokeh background, which looks great when shooting band portraits. 

This lens is notably lightweight and compact, weighing just 10 oz (280 g). Despite its small size, the this lens does not compromise on sharpness or autofocus speed, ensuring that every detail is captured with clarity.

The Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN | C is a superb prime lens for photographing live music. It’s a great option for shooting concert video footage. And it’s compatible with Nikon Z-mount cameras.

 

Conclusion: The Best Lenses for Concert Photography

With the best lenses for concert photography, a music photographer’s job is so much easier. Whether you need wide shots of the stage or close-ups or individual performers, a good concert photography lens makes it possible.

We reviewed nine lenses that offer a range of focal lengths, apertures, and features designed to meet the varied demands of concert photography. From versatile zooms to fast primes, each lens has its strengths, whether in low light performance, image stabilization, or autofocus speed, providing photographers with options to suit their specific needs.

The Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is our top choice due to its impressive versatility. A wide zoom range, fast AF, and image stabilization make it the best choice for covering live music events. But as we’ve seen, all the best brands have excellent lens options for concert photography.

Our Top 3 Lenses for Concert Photography
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon RF 24-240mm F/4-6.3 IS USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S