Concert Lenses

[Brandon James]

Alright, So I was approved for press and photo credentials for Creation Festival. I am getting a 30D before the festival, and judging by the atmosphere in the photos, I was wondering what is the best lense option for me?

Photos of the stage can be viewed at

http://www.creationfest.com/ne

http://homepage.mac.com/katland/CreationE/PhotoAlbum53.html

Thanks for your time!

[unix04]

i think it depends on how far you'll be from the stage, and when during the day you will be shooting...

[Brandon James]

Well, it will be from the afternoon to late at night. And RIGHT in front of the stage. I guess if I had to choose a time of day, I would much rather have a lense for the late night concerts because 1) The bands are more popular and 2) Better portfolio shots (with the intrigue of the lights and all).

[kidpower]

What kind of shooting do you want to do? Whole acts/bands or mostly individual shots.

I've shot a week long Jazz Festival locally (different outdoor late evening/night) and have used nothing but the Canon 135 F2. Then again I could care less about group shots and focus entirely on individual performers. If I want the whole group (which is rare), I foot zoom. The 135 F2 is magnificent for my purposes, maybe terrible for you. Depends on what you want.

[Brandon James]

I am the same way, most of the artists I am looking to shoot are individual. And if it is a band, I prefer individual shots. Does that lens work well with large stage lighting?

[kidpower]

The 135 F2 can handle stage lighting just as well as any lens. Lighting can be a challenge for any lens, especially at concerts.

I would get some more opinions on what others like to use. I'm a prime person only and the 135 F2 works brilliantly for the way I like to shoot. Others have their own styles.

It may be hard, but you have to get a feel as to what you think may work for you (ie. the way you like to take photos).

There are many possibilities. Good luck.

[bacchanal]

If you're going to use primes, it's good to have more than one option. You can't always move around to get the shots you need.

What is your budget? What other lenses do you have or are you planning to get?

[René Damkot]

70-200L IS
Have a look in the PA section of POTN...