indoor concert photography

<p>i just bought a nikon d-90 and i wanted to know what would be the cheapest available lens for indoor concert photography?</p>

<p>I think the 50/1.8 would be cheapest reasonable choice if you can close to the stage or on it. The 50/1.4G AF-S would be a bit better (for this application). You should also consider the 35/1.8 DX and the 85/1.8.</p>

<p>Ilkka hits on a very important point. You don't say what range you need? If you're in the pit, you can do a lot with a "normal" lens like a fast 50. (The 50/1.8 does work well for this purpose, and is a pretty good thing to have around for ~100 bucks.) If you want tight shots, that won't do it, though. Then you're looking at longer lenses, where something like the 85/1.8 isn't a bad choice. And then, if you really need more reach, you could look for a used 80-200/2.8. No VR, but still tack-sharp, and maybe available in the $500-600 range. <br>

You also don't say what you have now. You may be able to work with that, though fast apertures are nice for concerts.</p>

<p>50/1.8 when can come very close to/on the stage.<br>

The best solution: 70-200 VR, cheaper Sigma 80-200 2.8.</p>

<p>I can vouch for the Sigma 50-150 2.8. On a DX body, it approx resembles the angle you get on a FX (~80-200), and is not so heavy as the 80-200.</p>

<p>How close do you get?</p>

<p>cheapest= 50/1.8 or 35/1.8.</p>

<p>As a cheapest choice, I agree with the 50/1.8. I've shot few events using only it and it works if you have a chance to move a bit. 35/1.8 is good too, but for my use it's a bit too wide to be used as an only lens for a concert shoot. But everything indeed depends on how close can you get to the stage and what are your chances to move around. I've also used Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 as my concert lens and for me it worked better than primes. But then again the concerts I've shot have been smallish club gigs mostly. For bigger venues, I too would go with 50-150/70-200/80-200 f/2.8 lenses, but they might not be "cheap" choices. Anyway, a fast lens is what you want.</p>

 

<p>I support the 50 f/1.8 for least expensive lens.<br>

If I would to recommend one? I would definitely suggest 70-200 f/2.8. But it's far from inexpensive...</p>

<p>I bought the Sigma 50-150 just for concerts a couple of weeks ago for my D70s and I'm very happy with it, but it is $750 US. </p>

<p>I agree with the Nikon 50mm f/1.8 is the cheapest. But remember focal range is a big deciding factor on what lens you need. So go by focal range first then by price and speed. I got my 50mm for free, but they go for under $150 new.</p>

<p>I use the 18-200 VR because dialed back to 18mm, it looks like a small lens. A lot of venues have limitations to the physical length of the lens they will allow into the room. (Stupid, but that's the way it is...) I've gotten some very good results, but motion blur on the subjects can be a problem.</p>

<p>im usually very close of not on stage</p>

<p>Just used my 18-55mm this Friday on my D40 with a SB-600. I usually use my 50mm, but sometimes some venues it's a little harder to move around the place.</p><div></div>