12 Best Cameras for Concert Photography in 2023

This is a guide covering the best cameras for concert photography.

As a rule of thumb whenever you are picking a camera for concert photography, you have to consider the fact that you are dealing with a low-light environment plus the fact that you are going to deal with an artist that’s most likely moving around the stage to entertain the crowd.

The key to getting good photos at a concert is to have a camera with fast shutter speeds and good low-light performance, as well as a lens with a wide aperture.

The good news is that there are a lot of good cameras to choose from.

And since the best gear for concert photography boils down to your preference, we’ve come up with our list of 12 of the best cameras for concert photography.

In a hurry? Here’s the quick rundown:

• ⭐ Best Overall Camera for Concert Photography
  • Nikon D7500

• 🎒 Best Small and Lightweight Cameras for Concert Photography
  • Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K
  • Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
  • Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II

• 🧍 Best Entry-Level DSLR Camera for Concert Photography
  • Nikon D3300

• 📷 Best Mid-Range DSLR Cameras for Concert Photography
  • Nikon D7500
  • Canon EOS 90D
  • Canon EOS 80D

• 📸 Best Professional DSLR Cameras for Concert Photography
  • Nikon D500
  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II
  • Pentax KP

• 🔍 Best Mid-Range Mirrorless Cameras for Concert Photography
  • Panasonic LUMIX G85
  • Panasonic LUMIX S5

• 💸 Best Budget Camera for Concert Photography
  • Nikon D3300

How to Choose the Best Camera for Concert Photography?

Sensor size: A larger sensor will generally produce better image quality and low light performance.

Shutter speed: You’ll want a camera with a fast shutter speed to freeze the action on stage. A shutter speed of 1/500th of a second or faster is generally recommended for concert photography.

Low light performance: Concert are often poorly lit, so you’ll want a camera with good low light performance. Look for a camera with a high ISO range and low noise at high ISOs.

Lens: A lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or wider) will allow you to capture more light and create a shallow depth of field, which can be useful for isolating the subject from the background.

Size and weight: If you’ll be on your feet for long periods of time, you may want to consider a smaller and lighter camera.

Find the full list of cameras below along with pros, cons, and some more technical details.

12 Best Cameras for Concert Photography

What is the Best Camera for Concert Photography?

1. Nikon D7500

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 5568 x 3712
• Image ratio: 3:2
• ISO: ISO 100 – 51200 (expandable to 50 – 1640000)
• Image stabilization: Digital only
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired, wireless, smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

I believe the best overall camera for concert photography is the Nikon D7500.

Though it doesn’t have an alloy construction as the D500, the D7500 provides users with a great feel especially if you are looking to shoot portraits during concerts.

We believe that this is the best camera for concert photography for several reasons.

First, shooting in low light was never a problem with its high-ISO capability that can go up to ISO 1,640,000.

Though you will never go this far considering that there’s an obvious loss in detail as you spike your ISO, it just shows how much freedom users can have when shooting in a low light condition.

Plus, you also get a 51-point AF system that makes it easy to track the subject.

Though it is a bit odd to drop the 24MP sensor and have a 20.9MP sensor in the Nikon D7500, it does a good job capturing sharp images.

On top of that, you can also shoot videos in 4K in case your favorite band plays your favorite song.

You can also find this camera on Walmart and Best Buy

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2. Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Compact
• Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:3, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 80-3200 (expands to 6400)
• Image stabilization: Optical
• Articulated LCD: Tilting
• Screen: size 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (microHDMI)
• Microphone port: No
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

The best budget camera for concert photography is the Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K.

Not everyone wants a bulky pro camera to shoot some photos and videos in a concert.

The Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K fits this profile. It is a budget-friendly option for shooting photos.

The lens allows up to 30x zoom plus you can even flip the screen to see what you are trying to capture whenever you are shooting above the crowd.

The 20.3 MP sensor is also not bad. It takes high-quality shots, especially for a fixed lens camera.

However, the downside to the Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K is the fact that you can’t change the lens.

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3. Canon EOS 90D

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6960 x 4640
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
• Image stabilization: No
• Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired , wireless or smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

We consider the Canon EOS 90D as the best gear for concert photography if you are after the best bang for your buck.

For starters, it has a 32.5 MP sensor that allows you to capture stunning photos.

Next, it can shoot up to 10fps with no lag allowing you to capture the moment as it happens. And on top of that, you get a 45-point All Cross-type AF system that can track your subject with ease.

Unfortunately, we find the shots to produce too much noise in low light.

We suggest that you use a wide aperture lens whenever you are using the EOS 90D.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon EOS 90D!

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4. Nikon D500

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 5568 x 3712
• Image ratio: 3:2
• ISO: ISO 100 – 51200 (expandable to 50 – 1640000)
• Image stabilization: No
• Articulated LCD: Tilting
• Screen size: 3.2″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Optional, wired or wireless )
• Video formats:
  • 720
  • 1080
  • 4K

The Nikon D500 DX-Format DSLR is a great option for those who are looking to shoot high-quality photos in low-light conditions.

The Nikon DX500 offers a 20.9MP DX-Format CMOS sensor that can provide you with stunning images.

It has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD that not only accurately gives you a preview of your shots, but also allows you to navigate the settings of your camera without any problem.

Next, you can extend the ISO up to ISO 1640000 plus you can shoot for up to 10fps capturing every moment on stage.

So what’s not to like? If you are going to rely so much on ISO, there is considerable noise starting at around ISO 800. Plus, the focus is not exactly the best.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D500!

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5. Nikon D3300

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Compact SLR
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• Image ratio: 3:2
• ISO: Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, 25600 (with boost)
• Image stabilization: No
• Articulated LCD: Fixed
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: No
• Screen type: TFT LCD (160 degree viewing angle)
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Optional
• Remote control: Yes (Optional)
• Video formats:
  • 640 x 424
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

Some individuals looking for the best cameras for concert photography prefer to have a sensor that goes above 20MP.

That’s when the Nikon D3300 comes in handy. It is a favorite even among pro photographers because of its powerful 24.2MP CMOS DX-format sensor capable of providing great shots.

For a pro-camera, it can only take up to 5fps. Though a bit slower than other DSLRs that we’ve featured, it is usually enough to give you great shots during a concert.

It also has a superb AF capable of making it one of the best cameras for concert pictures. Plus, you can ramp the ISO from ISO 100 to ISO 12800 (expandable up to ISO 25600).

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6. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-40000 (expands to 50-102400)
• Image stabilization: No
• Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (Mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless or smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is usually a favorite by sports photographers. With 6.5fps it is possible to capture precious moments even with a moving subject.

This is also the reason why EOS6D Mark II is one of the best cameras for concert photography.

It also made use of a high-speed dual pixel CMOS AF that comes with phase detection that allows precise focus on your subject.

It also comes with a 26.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor that gets you the best shots that you need if you are doing concert photography.

You even get a vari-angle touchscreen LCD that allows you to see your shots when you are holding your camera above your head.

Plus, it allows you to easily navigate and change the settings on your camera.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon 6D Mark II.

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7. Canon EOS 80D

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-16000 (expands to 25600)
• Image stabilization: No
• Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired, wireless, or via smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

The Canon EOS 80D is another favorite by pro-photographers. It is a dynamic DSLR that deserves to be mentioned as one of the best cameras for concert photography.

It comes with a powerful 24.2 MP sensor plus a wide ISO range that allows great performance even in low-light conditions.

It also has a dual pixel CMOS AF that allows smooth and fast AF.

And lastly, you have an LCD that can be flipped allowing users to shoot at awkward angles or when they have to get the camera above their head.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon EOS 80D.

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8. Panasonic LUMIX G85

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to ISO 100)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via wired remote or smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

Now, let’s include mirrorless cameras on our list of best cameras for concert photography.

The Panasonic Lumix G85 is a lightweight micro four-thirds camera that can give you great results during concerns.

It has a 16MP sensor plus an ISO sensitivity of up to ISO 25600.

Apart from its performance in low-light conditions, the Panasonic Lumix G85 also has a robust weather-proof splashproof, and dustproof design.

The biggest downside is that it doesn’t focus well.

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9. Panasonic LUMIX S5

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes (Power Delivery supported)
• HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired or via smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

The Panasonic Lumix S5 is one of the best cameras for concert photography simply because it gives photographers the best of what DSLRs and micro four-thirds offer.

As a mirrorless full-frame camera, you get the capabilities of a DSLR but with the weight of a micro four-thirds camera.

It comes with a powerful 24.2 MP CMOS sensor plus it is typically a favorite of vloggers given its 4K/30p capability.

It also has a dual image stabilization that lessens blurry shots, not to mention a high precision AF.

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10. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a lightweight and compact camera that comes with a 20MP sensor plus an in-body 5-axis image stabilization that can help you get more good shots.

It can compensate for up to 4.5 shutter speeds making it a handy tool especially when you have a moving subject.

It also has a flip-down monitor that allows you to see what you are shooting even at awkward angles.

For its weak points, we’d say that the AF is not exactly as good as other mirrorless cameras that we have mentioned here.

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11. Pentax KP

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6016 x 4000
• Image ratio: 3:2
• ISO: Auto, 100-819200
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Articulated LCD: Tilting
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: No
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: No (requires adapter)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via remote cable or smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1920 x 1080

The Pentax KP is an underrated DSLR for concert photography. First, you get to enjoy weatherproof housing allowing you to take beautiful photos regardless if it is raining or not.

Next, it made use of a powerful 24.3 MP sensor and a 5-axis shake reduction system allowing you to get more from your shots.

And lastly, it has a tilting LCD that allows you to shoot regardless if it requires a high or low angle.

This is a good option, especially for hobbyists. However, you might want to add a battery grip if you really need this camera for a longer duration.

Unfortunately, the battery is kind of chunky.

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12. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
• Image ratio: 4:3
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to 64)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
• Screen size: 3″
• Touch screen: Yes
• Screen type: TFT LCD
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (Micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired or via smartphone)
• Video formats:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • 4096 x 2160 (4K)

Last on our list is the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. It is a 20.4MP resolution full-frame mirrorless camera not to mention the largest camera in the OM-D family.

It has a smaller sensor size, which is a disadvantage but it does the trick if you are looking to shoot during concerts.

It is best known for its 60fps feature allowing you to shoot at high-speed. It even has an all-phase-detection AF system that can match DSLRs.

However, as a mirrorless camera, you can expect this to be lighter.

The only downside is that it has a complex menu and control that might overwhelm users.

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FAQ

Final Remarks

A lot of people are shooting photos during concerts or even during low-light conditions.

Hopefully, you will be able to find the right match for your needs with the list that we’ve provided.

Be sure that you are going to compare a few cameras on this list first before you make up your mind.

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