9 Best Lenses for Concert Photography

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 EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop 5 Versions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop 5 Versions

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

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 EF 24-105mm F/4L IS II USM

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm F/4 S

What Is the Best Lens for Concert Photography?

Our Favorite Lenses for Concert Photography

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion: The Best Lenses for Concert Photography

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