Everyone has to start somewhere, and countless music photographers working in the photo pits started out as fans in the crowd. Point & shoot cameras have the advantage of being compact, unobtrusive, and relatively inexpensive. Here’s a look at three quality point and shoots for the budding live music photographer.
My current recommendations for P&S cameras for photographing live music are the three models aimed at the “serious compact” market segment:
All three of these models offer manual shooting, RAW, and excel in low light by offering some of the best high ISO performance available outside of DSLRs and mirrorless APS-sensor cameras.
This little camera packs a lot of features in a very small form factor, including a sensitivity range that goes up to “big-boy” territory of ISO 3200. The S90 offers very similar image quality to the flagship G11, all in a decidedly tiny package.
Unlike the Panasonic LX3, the lens on the S90 retracts to be essentially flush with the body, making this a great pocket cam. The movable dial around the lens serves as a manual control that can be set to control a range of settings – a very nice touch. Still, with the most compact body out of all the cameras I’m recommending here, the Canon S90 requires going into the menu more due to the limited real estate to dedicate to physical controls.
With a zoom range of 28-105mm (35mm equivalent), this camera is going to be best suited to stage-front photography.
The Panasonic Lx3 is a gem of a camera, with a fast f/2-2.8 lens and excellent image quality for a point and shoot. For my shooting and needs, the very fast zoom and high ISO performance were what sold me on this camera.
The catch with the Panasonic LX3 is a limited zoom range of 24-60mm, which means that the L3x really requires a close position to the stage to make the most out of its zoom range. However, for anyone with a DSLR and a 24-70mm midrange zoom, you’ll feel right at home.
With a 24mm focal length on the wide end, the LX3 features the best option for wide angle photography, which is perfect for smaller clubs and big stages alike – if you can get close enough.
Just like the S90, the LX3 shoots RAW offers full manual control, which I consider a must-have feature for concert photography.
As a bonus, the LX3 features a flash hotshoe, and since it uses an electronic shutter, it can flash sync at speeds several stops faster than your conventional DSLR. Very nice if you’re using off-camera flash and want a “dark daylight” effect.
If the LX3 and S90 are compacts, the Canon G11 is distinctly more mid-sized, with a beefy and dense weight to it that just begs for serious consideration.
The G11 boasts very similar characteristics to the excellent image quality of the smaller S90, all while possessing dedicated manual controls and dials for ISO for great handling. At 28-140mm, the G11′s lens features the longest range, albeit at a slower f/2.8-4.5 aperture – a stop slower than both the S90 and LX3 at the wide end.
The only real downside to this excellent camera is the large form factor – it’s great for the feel in hand, but the Canon G11 may not fit the “small camera” allowance of most concerts.
End Notes:
These days, most concerts allow fans to bring in “small cameras” with no restrictions. While these three point & shoot cameras don’t truly begin to reach the image quality of even entry level DSLRs, they’re some of the best options for anyone shooting from the crowd and clamoring for space at the barricade.
Next up, we’ll look at entry-level DSLRs that are up to the rigors of live music photography. In the meantime, let me know if there are any other gear or concert photography features you would like to see.
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This entry was posted on Monday, May 17th, 2010 at 4:29 pm and is filed under Photography Gear and tagged with camera, compact, concert photography, concerts, live music, music photography, point and shoot. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
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Haha, you rock man, thanks… Though, as they were the three I had to choose between, I’m still confused ;-)
I think I might try for the G11, but then I do prefer to have a little bit of movie mode…
hmm…
Cheers,
Sime
Hey Sime,
For movie mode, I’d go with the Panasonic LX3, as the video it shoots is quite nice for web viewing.
The G11 is certainly the most “serious” of these cameras and would be best suited to a backup. Otherwise, the other two make nice casual cams.
Cool post, first of all. Now just to take it from an amateur’s point of view, as it feels a bit…different.
I found that TZ3 and nowadays TZ7/ZS3 are pretty good, so I was surprised to see LX3 there instead of ZS3. However, in my country, nobody really would have a problem even if you got a DSLR in, in most venues. At the EXIT festival in 2008, someone in the 2nd or 3rd row had a prosumer Canon DSLR, think it was 30D or 40D and, at some point, one of the security workers even tilted their head to make space. But I’m aware it’s not the same everywhere.
Back in the days, I got into an Austrian venue with a Canon S2IS, which is generally a good camera, but looks far more serious than it should, and it was confiscated. They yelled at me and kept on repeating: “No professional cameras!” It didn’t help that I have shown them that I cannot remove the lens, they didn’t let me take it in and they even remembered me the next day (the band I went to see had shows in Vienna day after day). I assume they would cause the same trouble to someone with a G11 nowadays, given how “serious” it looks like. :(
Hey Iva,
I include the LX3 in this comparison over a camera like the TZ3 because of the maximum aperture through the range, among other things. The zoom range of the TZ3 is fantastic, but the slower aperture range is a killer. For me, given the decreased performance at high ISO of all compact cameras (due to the smaller sensor size), I require f/2.8 at a minimum.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I appreciate it.
Nice review!
Especially interested in what you have to say about the Canon G11 as I’ve been looking to get it as an ‘every day’ camera when I’m out with the family as opposed to lugging round my D3.
Cheers,
Glyn
Hey Glyn,
If you’re a D3 user, I think you’d be satisfied by the G11 as a pretty worthy replacement as far as compacts go. The G11 certainly isn’t pocketable, but I suspect it will satisfy the serious user in you the most out of these options.
However, if you are looking for something small that you can bring with you everywhere, the S90 might be the ticket. Nearly the same great image quality as the G11, but in a tiny body. I would have given the S90 very serious consideration if it were out when I was looking at compacts.
Nice summary, Todd. I’ve owned both the S90 and a G10, and will be buying a G11 in the next week. The Gs are bulkier, but the solid dial controls are a big plus for me. As nice as the S90 is, the back dial was too easy to accidentally change, although the grip that Richard Franiec makes for it apparently alleviates that issue to some degree: http://www.lensmateonline.com/newsite/richard_franiec_accessoriesS90.html
Hey Doug, thanks for sharing your thoughts on these cameras.
I’ve heard that about the S90′s dial, too. Something’s got to give, and that small size comes at the expense of usability.
The S90 grip looks nice, too. I’ve seen those Richard Franiec accessories around on the Canon G series. They look great.
True, shrinking things down does mean compromises. I really like the S90 otherwise, for the reasons you mentioned, and the new Canon sensor (shared by the G11) does an acceptable job at high ISO. These are the only concert shots I used it for:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/synesthesiaphotography/4130544957/in/set-72157622743768225/
Not razor-sharp, but very little noise at 1600. Those were tweaked only with LR’s noise reduction.
I’m hoping that sensor in the G body will be a win. I sold my G10 when I bought a Pen, and have regretted it since. As an aside, although it’s not a P&S, the E-P1/Pen makes a lousy concert camera, IMO. The contrast-based AF sucks for low-light – it hunts and hunts and rarely locks in time for a shot.
I’ve actually had a lot of success bringing my Panasonic GF1 with the 20mm pancake lens attached. I’ll usually have my girlfriend carry the 45-200 lens in her purse and then switch it out once the concert starts. Security usually looks at the GF1 with the pancake lens and can’t differentiate it from any other point and shoot. Entry price for this gear isn’t for everyone, but it’s been working out well for me!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/speedye/sets/72157623522883722/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/speedye/sets/72157624044616044/
Those shots with the Panasonic GF1 look good. I will be very curious to see how the Sony NEX-3 and 5 perform. They look even smaller than current mirrorless EVIL cameras and have a APS-C sensor. Thanks for sharing your experience, Enoch.
I have looked at that camera as well, the new Sony. Only thing I see is the lenses offered are not that fast.
Yeah, right now there’s only the 16mm f/2.8 as the fastest lens. I would love to see a smaller pancake style lens like the Oly 20/1.7, but the larger sensor of the Sony is going to be a factor in how small the lenses can be made.
Checkout Todd's article on Compacts for Concerts –> http://bit.ly/bpnblB @toddowyoung (Thanks, Todd!)
I’ll second Enoch’s vote for the Panasonic GF1 with the 20mm pancake. It is a little pricey at $800, but it’s really fast (1.7), and really small and light, with decent high ISO performance. It’s a great camera to have when a DSLR is not an option.
The Best Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography | ishootshows.com http://bit.ly/amySLB
The Best Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography | ishootshows.com http://bit.ly/amySLB
RT: @dncosta Concert photo with a compact camera? Check out a pro's opinion at @toddowyoung's ishootshows.com http://bit.ly/9W83TM
Nice one! I love the lx-3 (or Leica dlux 4) RT @gtvone: Checkout Todd's article on Compacts for Concerts – http://bit.ly/bpnblB @toddowyoung
RT @toddowyoung The Best Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography | ishootshows.com http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
Not everyone's first (or last) camera is an SLR. My recs for the best P&S cameras: http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
RT @toddowyoung: Not everyone's first (or last) camera is an SLR. My recs for the best P&S cameras: http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography http://bit.ly/cRaah6 via @toddowyoung
RT @toddowyoung: Not everyone's first (or last) camera is an SLR. My recs for the best P&S cameras: http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
Good short list of point-n-shoot camera recommendations for concert goers by @toddowyoung http://is.gd/ceJQt
RT @toddowyoung: Not everyone's first (or last) camera is an SLR. My recs for the best P&S cameras: http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
Hey Paige,
I was wondering how that GF1 was working out for you – how do you find the AF on that camera for more lowlight/available light work? Thanks for the vote.
Thanks Todd for the roundup — Having already hashed this out with you, I really like my G11 purchase. It felt really solid on the Europe trip and I had a ton of fun trying out all the controls.
Hey Christine,
Glad to hear that you’re getting along with the G11 – it certainly is a nice little camera. From the photos, it looks like you had a blast in Europe.
Enjoy shooting concerts? Check out @toddowyoung 's recommendations for the best Point & Shoot for concert photography – http://bit.ly/acKLcJ
I’ve just got a Fuji F200exr. Roughly half the price of the above cameras. It’s an ok 12mp camera but the sensor is amazing if you set it M size (6mp). Essentially it takes 2 different 6mp photos at the same time giving you enhanced dynamic range at low iso (10+ stops) and low noise at high iso I really like the grain/noise at 1600. Loving it… similar size to the S90 but twice the reach (140mm eqiv) and used properly I prefer the high iso. You can also pick up the F70exr which is similar in size, performance and price wise, weaker lens at the wide end but 270mm equiv. I wanted the better lens because I spend a lot of time at the wide end but for a pocket concert cam…
Here’s a couple of concert examples from my F200
http://www.flickr.com/photos/edwaring/4578410473/in/set-72157623991892944/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/edwaring/4593506725/in/set-72157623904595573/
and for giggles here’s an ISO 3200 shot I love the tones on…
http://www.flickr.com/photos/edwaring/4565483884/in/set-72157623908363935/
The F200exr is being discontinued at mo… I highly recommend picking one up on close out for a pocket cam. It’s a genius little cam imho.
The Fuji F200 is an interesting camera, and Fuji certainly made a name for itself with the F30 several years ago, that’s for sure.
Thanks for your thoughts on the F200, Ed.
Based on your comment, Ed, I managed to pick up an F200EXR off eBay for $220, and I’m pretty impressed with it. It’s still no G10/G11 (my fave p&s, and I’m still going to get the 11), but it does a vg job at 1600:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/synesthesiaphotography/tags/f200exr/
Sweet pics Doug and I’m glad you’re liking the F200. Once you set it up right it’s just a super simple, super competent pocket camera… It ain’t nowhere near as polished as a Canon Gxx but as something to stick in my jacket pocket and do a decent job of anything it comes across I’m still loving it. And there’s something a little bit special about that sensor as well imho…
Todd, thanks for the great article.
One question I have is, what is the shutter lag like on these three P&S? P&S tend to have annoying lag between when you press the shutter button and when it actually fires, and for action shots, that lag means you can lose some great shots.
I’ve started bringing small film cameras with me – my favorite right now is my BessaR – and an assortment of film. However, a good P&S would be great also.
Hey Pat,
The Panasonic is pretty as good as far as short lag time goes. With any camera like this that uses phase detection AF, the real trick is to prefocus when at all possible – doing that, the lag is quite minimal.
When shooting live gig type stuff with a p&s the thing that gets me is often not the shutter lag (ALWAYS prefocus) but the screen lag. Those fractions of a second do make a difference when you’re trying to capture fleeting expressions, often at slow shutter speeds so you’re waiting for stillness as well as animation (if that makes sense)…
I have been using the Sony DSC H1 Cybershot camera for three concerts now and LOVE it! the lens is a little slower than a couple of these and it doesn’t shoot in Raw. But for my casual concert shots it has been awesome. It has a 20x zoom. If it would shoot in raw and the lens was a tad faster, I would be beyond thrilled.
A 20x zoom definitely comes in handy if you’re not right in the fray. I’ve seen some surprisingly nice work done by superzooms, too.
Yes, I have, too. They are getting better. I still get frustrated with the limitations sometimes. But have been able to tweak the camera to get better results. I, frankly, was shocked at how good the results were.
thanks for the great article, i immediately forwarded the link to a few of my friends :)
when i don’t have a photo pass (or just want to be a fan), i use the Canon PowerShot SX110 IS.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/manuanya/sets/72157623827490427/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/manuanya/sets/72157622783780996/
the ISO performance is not that great (i mostly use it at 800), but with an aperature of f/2.8 i still managed great results, even in small clubs.
Hey Manu,
This shot from Greenday is nice:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/manuanya/4096338704/in/set-72157622783780996/
Wouldn’t have guessed it was a P&S if you hadn’t said so. Looks like you were close, too! Or at least putting the zoom to good use.
Thank you!
I was about fifth row at the Green Day, the stabilizer in the Canon is really great, even works in a pit ;-)
I shot these of Lady Gaga
http://www.flickr.com/photos/manuanya/3750183806/in/set-72157621670718619/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/manuanya/3749673705/in/set-72157621670718619/
from the last row of that venue (around 1.000 people capacity), so the zoom definitely works well, too ;-)
I’m a Nikon girl when it comes to DSLRs but I’ve tried their P&S and was really disappointed!
I’m sorry for sending one comment twice, my internet crashed and I thought it didn’t submit!
Manu, how on Earth did you get a decent camera in Stadthalle? O_O
If you scroll to the comment I made above, that was the venue they confiscated my camera at. You’re pretty much my hero now…
Iva, I’ve read your comment and didn’t realize it was at the Stadthalle! I was wondering about that, actually.
I’ve never had any problems getting the Canon PowerShot anywhere, that’s one reason why I got it – it’s pretty small (fits in the backpocket of wide jeans) and was also cheap (around $200) so that, if I have to leave it at the entrance, I wouldn’t be too worried about something happening to it! I think security underestimates it, because I always show it to them at the entrance and they never gave me trouble. Or maybe I’m just lucky? :-)
RT @toddowyoung: Not everyone's first (or last) camera is an SLR. My recs for the best P&S cameras: http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
RT @toddowyoung: Not everyone's first (or last) camera is an SLR. My recs for the best P&S cameras: http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
This is a really interesting article, my girlfriend loves photography and loves music and she wants to take photos at concerts, so this information is really cool :). But you HAVE to change the font of the website my friend, my eyes are killing me right now.
Iva, I’ve read your comment and didn’t realize it was at the Stadthalle! I was wondering about that, actually.
I’ve never had any problems getting the Canon PowerShot anywhere, that’s one reason why I got it – it’s pretty small (fits in the backpocket of wide jeans) and was also cheap (around $200) so that, if I have to leave it at the entrance, I wouldn’t be too worried about something happening to it! I think security underestimates it, because I always show it to them at the entrance and they never gave me trouble. Or maybe I’m just lucky? :-)
Greetings:
Thanks for the picks… The HSS Sensor of the G11 + S90 are great. 800 ISO is usable and with the f2.0 lens (@ w/a) on the S90 in particular, is a awesome set up.
The key to these models in concent environments is “being close”…as the faster apertures are at the wide-angle settings. Since they are comapct cams, you can simply hold the cam as close to the subject as possible.
These would be more suitable than even the new 4/3′s models hitting the streets. (I’m still having problems understanding that market…When I shoot, I’ll either grab the S90 or my DSLR’s)…
Bottom line, the sensor and fast lenses make concert imagery a reality. Thank you taking the time to review the products.
Now back to browsing you recent images. Hope to see you in pit soon.
Paul
Hey Paul,
Canon has been kicking butt with their compacts, that’s for sure. Even though I shoot Nikon DSLRs, I’ve never been impressed with their compacts – at least not since the old swivel-style cams years and years ago.
are Nikon Coolpix L100′s any good for concert photography? because i ordered one online today to shoot at a show coming up.
Shelly,
The zoom range of the L100 is great for an arena/amphitheater show where the lighting is likely to be very bright. Other than that, it’s not camera that I would recommend due to the slower lens. Also, there’s no way to manually set the ISO on that camera. I always prefer manual control, which is why I recommend these three cameras with complete manual control over the settings.
I recently purchased the Canon S90……it is the same sensor as the G11 in a smaller package with a faster lens. The lens on the S90 is f/2.0 at 28mm. For a point and shoot, I love this camera.
Also the S90 has a great feature….a control ring around the lens that you can program to do many different things, ie. focus, apreature control, white balance, and more. There are actually 2 control rings on the S90 that I love because I don’t have to enter the menu screen to make changes. Also, I like this camera over the G11 due to it’s small size. I did alot of research before choosing the S90 and I have no buyer’s remorse….I would buy it again and recommend to all.
:-)
Jon Weiner Photography
Atlanta, GA
Hey Jon,
Thanks for weighing in with your experience with the S90. Good stuff.
Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography – http://tinyurl.com/3yyuudq
Hey guys, i go to so many concerts and I need a camera that is affordable ($320 max) and i was looking into the nikon coolpix s8000 . Would that be good? Some people have been saying the flash is in a really bad spot. I also have the canon powershot sx110 IS and I think the battery life is horrible and it takes forever and multiple tries to get ONE shot!
BASICALLY,
im am trying to find an affordable camera that has good battery life and takes really amazing pictures! any help?
Hi Bianca,
I think the Nikon S8000 offers a great zoom range, but there are a few things that would not make it my first choice. First, there’s the lack of manual controls. Also, the image quality of the S8000 isn’t going to match the high ISO performance of these three cameras. If you can swing just a little extra money and don’t mind a limited zoom range, the S90 is going to offer better performance.
Thank you so much for responding! That was super helpful!
How is the S90′s battery life? I find that a constant problem at concerts is that.. my battery dies. I REALLY prefer a camera that doesn’t run on actual batteries. It just seems like a hassle. The concerts that I’m attending this summer are mainly outdoor concerts at night, so i need something that would accommodate that and something that takes excellent indoor arena shots too. I’ll look into the S90 for sure! But do you think that I should pass on buying the nikon coolpix s8000 ? I thought it seemed like an excellent camera for the price! But you know best! haha I just want to come home from my show looking at my pictures and being like “WOW” rather then have the camera take average, blurry, pictures.
Hope you get back to me!!
My Name’s Kristina & I’ve been taking pictures of local concerts in Houston, TX for the past 3 years. It wasn’t until within the last year or so I started becoming more serious about concert photography, mostly Rock concerts. After my previous camera was stolen at a convention I did not have the funds to buy another, so my parents surprised me and got me a Canon S90.
I have to say I absolutely LOVE this camera and am glad to discover it was included on your list. A lot of places will not let you take in a professional camera unless you have a photo pass, & honestly they’re bulky and heavy and I like to be in the crowds :) But this camera is small, compact, and gives me some great, amazing shots. Below is a link to my Flickr site which I am currently in the process of uploading all my photos. I’m still playing around with all the settings and so if you’d like to follow me you can see some of the shots it can produce.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kristiniec/
Todd, first of all: great shots from Bamboozle – very neat. Secondly, since I last saw you, I purchased a G11. Outrageous camera. Unreal what it can do, for both the price point and the form factor. The reticulating screen is extremely nice. The hard controls are wonderful, especially in dim light or when a twirl works to get things where you want them to be. Focus magnification is darn nice. You can move the focus around, too. Has a spot meter. Movie mode? Well, I didn’t buy it for that, but it works. Especially for quick movie blips to post or just share with friends. But the still controls on the camera are phenomenal. Highly recommended.
I am trying to find camera with video mode to tape my son’s ballroom dancing competitions. On most of competitions you can take pictures, but can not make video, that’s why I cannot use camcorder. Than I have to transfer movies to the computer and DVD. Any suggestions? Thank you.
Hi Yelena,
I’d look at some of the new crop of cameras that do record in 1080 HD or at least 720. The Panasonic I’ve listed here does 720p (1280 x 720) at 24fps and works quite well.
There’s also the micro 4/3 segment of cameras, like the Panasonic GF-1. The Sony HX5v does 1080p with a good zoom range and may be worth looking at, though it doesn’t have a very fast lens.
Hi Todd-I had a Sony DSCWX-1 that I loved for concerts (mostly in small venues)but it stopped working during one of my fav. shows (only 3 months old) and Sony has horrible customer service..Should I stick with it, or would you recommend the S90? Thanks.
Hey Kerri,
Even at only 3 months old, you should be able to get it taken care of with Sony’s warranty, right? But if for some reason you’re not able to get the WX-1 repaired, I’d go with the Canon S90 if you’re looking for something with a similar, small form factor. Good luck!
Hy Todd!
I often go to concerts and I’m glad I have found your page! I think you’re the person I need for an advice LOL
I want to buy a bridge camera to bring with me at concerts, and I can’t decide …
I considered the Panasonic FZ-38 and the Sony Cyber-Shot HX1. Which one do you think it’s better for concert photography?
I tried the FZ38 once (borrowed by my friend), and I must say I wasn’t very impressed with my pics…only a few came out clear. And I was third row, so pretty close. But the sony is more expensive, so I would buy it only if it’s better for concerts.
Hope you can help me, thanks in advance ! =)
I bought the S8000 & would NOT recommend it. Very slow camera in all respects and after bring it to a show I was even more bummed. Slow focus, sub par image quality and the LCD is always on (annoying to people sitting around you). I was interested in its HD video – forget about it. Sub youtube quality and has a high pitched whining sound all over it. Thought it was just mine, but I did a search and see many people have this.
Ps. Awesome post. I found it after I decided to ditch my new S8000
Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography http://ishootshows.com/2010/05/17/point-shoot-cameras-for-concert-photography/
http://ishootshows.com/2010/05/17/point-shoot-cameras-for-concert-photography/
[...] you’re using a point & shoot camera, minimize your footprint by keeping your camera close to your face (and not at arms length and in [...]
Hi Todd! wonderful site and wonderful photos!
I need a new camera for photos shoots, since my Sony H20 is not as good as i thought when i bought it…my main options are:
- Canon G11
PRO: big sensor, 1/4000 shutter speed
CON: 5x zoom
- Panasonic Fz35/38
PRO: huge zoom, hd video, f2.8 wide (don’t know when in tele)
CON: sensor as big as my sony, 1/3200 shutter speed (even though my Sony is 1/2000)
Which one should I buy? the fz38 zoom would be more useful since I usually don’t stay in the front raws (heavy metal concert can be dangerous :D ) but G11 seems to be better…
Thanks!
RT @toddowyoung The Best Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography | ishootshows.com http://bit.ly/bPm54Q
I took your advice & grabbed the Canon S90 to replace my new Nikon S8000 (which I’ll be selling online). World of difference! Thanks so much for the suggestion. I was able to test it out on the 1st night sitting 3rd row at a Tom Petty show and then on to the Crossroads Guitar Festival the next day. I pulled some fantastic shots!
Of note to some users!!!:
iPhoto 09 will NOT import the RAW images from the Canon S90 (yet). To do so you must use Aperture 3 or Canon’s included software. Not thinking, I deleted all my RAW concert pics after importing to iPhoto only to be surprised…and a little upset!
Hey newswede,
Very glad to hear you’re happy with the S90 and it’s delivering. Have fun.
Hey Todd, love your site. Thanks for sharing. I have a 7D that i shoot mostly video with, but I am looking for another camera to bring along on trips to shoot time-lapse and behind the scene stuff with. Got any recommendations? Thanks!
For a P&S or DSLR?
I dunno. I guess either one. Thoughts?
Hey Todd – any recommendation on getting a solid P&S that will have AUDIO that can withstand being very close to the RAIL?
My old SONY DSC-T50 did a GREAT job, but is starting to get old and only has a 3x optical zoom.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdxXqnq7w9A
I’ve tried a couple of the newer Canon Powershot SX210IS and Sony HX5V models, and they all have HUGE amounts of BASS distortion.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pH-l5cpZ-lo
Help me out dude…need P&S w/ at least 10x zoom and great audio.
Point & Shoot Cameras For Concert Photography – http://bit.ly/c7wTqe by @toddowyoung
I am covering Lollapalooza this year but only got a media pass and no photo pass. I need to decide on which P&S camera I can bring that can be a decent stand-in for my Canon 50D. I want to have some of my own photos to accompany my reviews. I’ve been experimenting with the Sony NEX 3. It’s a pretty cool camera. It’s really compact and comfortable to handle. It takes fantastic pictures. The drawbacks I see in shooting at Lolla is getting close enough with this camera. The lens is a 18-55mm zoom which will not get me close enough in a lot of cases. I was thinking it might be better to get myself the G11 because I could at least zoom further in and wouldn’t have to be in the front few standing rows to get an okay shot. What are your thoughts on that? Do you think I should stick with the Sony. I had an idea to crop my photos if I don’t end up getting close enough. Do you think the larger APS-C sensor would allow me to zoom in after the fact when editing my photos to capture the subject closer up? The NEX 3 also records video in HD 720p. So as you can see I am kind of on the fence. What it really comes down to is I wish I could shoot with my DSLR from the photo pit. :/
@kellirhiannon Here is a good article by @toddowyoung on point & shoots for concert photography http://bit.ly/bpnblB
but if you were given a choice , which would you pick canon s90/95 or panasonic lumix lx3/lx5?
considering the given specs.
i’ve read a LOT of review regarding these 2 cams and i can’t seem to decide which i would actually buy.
i was wondering if you could help me out :)
What do you think of the Canon EOS 550D for concert photography?
Hi Emilie,
I think that as far as image quality goes, the camera will be just fine. Not sure how the 550D AF handles low light and fast action, though.
Hey Todd,
Just a quick question,
I’ve recently been looking into doing live performance
photography, and I was looking at a few cameras and iv come across the
Canon Powershot SX20 IS.
I was just wondering if you could have a look into this and tell me wether this would be a good camera to start off with?
Thanks,
Jay
@GraveMaurice I don't have any of these… But was reading the article recently and pondering… http://j.mp/9W83TM
Just want to drop a word of thanks for the article and the suggestions. I had been looking for a more compact camera to take with me on a daily basis, as well as something which I could be able to take into an upcoming concert. I read this article, and when Canon came out with the S95 a local camera shop dropped the price on the S90 by $100 to clear them out.
Well, I took that camera to a concert last nite – Gary Numan and Nash the Slash performing. Only the second time that camera’s been used, and I’m still very much a newb at working out the more advanced settings on the camera, but I’m quite happy with the photos I got there. I took a ton of them and it’ll take a while to go through but here are three of my early favorites:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/44775455@N00/sets/72157625241864818/
About the only issue I see initially is that there’s a fair bit of noise in the original RAW images, but I reckon that’s cause I had the ISO up high at 1250. Maybe a lil’ further experimentation will enable me to figure out better settings.
Hey Tabercil, those samples look great. There will be noise just due to the smaller sensor, but even then the colors and everything else look great.
hey
i wanted to ask you, what do you think about the OLYMPUS SP-800UZ 14 MP 3.0″ LCD 30X … I’m planning to buy a camera, and I saw this one yesterday. I liked the lens, the size, and that can take a set of 8 photos in one shot too, which i think is great for concerts. but i’m nor a professional photographer.. so, i’m looking for help :)
Hey Mache, I’ve never used that Oly – the cameras I list here are simply the pro-level compacts that I would personally look to for the best image quality and the fastest lenses.
thanks!
i think i’ll give it a try. i’m kind of falling for the size of the camera (it’s very tiny, which is great specially for concerts that are packed) and i liked that thing of 8 shots on one click. i just need to check if it’ll captured well the lights.
once i get it i’ll let you know how it goes, if you want. i think is fast and the image quality seems to be pretty good.
btw… i like very much your site. i always pass the link to the new photographers that join my site.
rock on!
Hello! I just came across this article and appreciate it so much!
I have been looking into getting a new camera – and quite a bit for the purpose of live music photography. Obviously, I’m no professional but it is the most important aspect of photography when it comes to what I like doing the most.
I also do your landscapes, people, family, event, wildlife, kids, etc.
G11 had been among the pool of cameras I have been considering… the Canon SX30 IS, Canon SX20 IS, and the Canon G11…
Could you tell me if the SX30 and SX20 would be good or bad choices for live music? I have read too many mixed reviews that I don’t even know what to think anymore…
And would the G11 do well for things other than concert photography?
Thank you so much!
Oh, and also: I left out a camera I have been considering: The Panasonic FZ35/38.
And now after even more research… Nikon P100?
Jesus Christ I am so confused. :/. Help?
I think my problem is that I want a little more zoom than the best quality point and shoots have to offer. But I don’t want the pictures to be of bad quality, of course… :/.
… Or Sony HX1… who I think might be winning right now… x).
I am considering the canon s90 but what would you recommend between the s90 and s95? I dont really care about the 720p movie mode, I am really just looking for nice crisp clear (or at least as best as I can get) concert shots.
Also I do like the continuous shooting feature.
Hey Dan, I’d personally go with the Canon S95.
@rhonda_ Nikon P7000 a few of best concert shooters love it… A friend of mine did a review a while back on them at http://bit.ly/b48h1i
Hi Todd!
Great site! I’m considering the LX3 but was wondering if LX5 would be better. Is it worth the extra cash or would the LX3 suffice?
:)
Soth,
I would recommend the newer Panasonic LX-5, since it has a more usable range and better user interface thanks to the added jog dial. While the lens is slower throughout the range, Panasonic has kept the same aperture range as the old 24-70mm, so it’s still f/2.8 at 70mm. So while it’s minutely slower at 90mm, you still don’t miss out on anything.
As a bit of an update from the commenter side…
I bought a Nikon P7000 a couple of weeks ago in anticipation of the upcoming Roger Waters show. I was going to get a G12 until Nikon announced the P7000 with 7.1X zoom, still following Canon’s lead in the format as far as features. I used it for a little under 2 weeks, including at a local club show, and I returned it for a G12 the other day.
The main issue with the Nikon was its painfully slow write times to the card. In RAW mode, with fast class 10 cards, it’s 2 seconds per image. Make the mistake of using the 5-shot bracketing mode and it’s 10 seconds before you can shoot again. I also found the images less than sharp, especially at the long end of the zoom. It did shoot nice HD video(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dg_aFLd9Y0U), but be forewarned that the mic is mono (not that stereo mics on a P&S give much separation), hence the external jack, I suppose.
So far, the G12 is a much better camera. The extra zoom would be nice, but 5X is still acceptable. If it wasn’t for the lack of ‘enough’ zoom, I may have bought an LX5. I prefer the way the G12 fits in my hand – although the flip-out screen adds a little bulk, the ergonomics (for me) are that much better than the P7000. More importantly, the image quality with the tests I’ve shot are obviously sharper in similar conditions.
As for size limitations at shows, since it’s almost impossible to know what the venue’s policy is until you get there, I almost always smuggle a camera in by putting it down my pants. Very few pat-downs by male security people will include another guy’s “junk” (especially now).
Hi, Todd.
I am considering Canon S95 for the concert im going to (thanks for this article and readers’ replies), but im also pondering about SX210 IS (being a 14mp and cheaper). First, im not a pro, basically just points and shoots. Second, im seeing Janet who moves around and fast on stage. Third, i’ll be using the same cam for my travel on daylights. Which would you recommend with the two? Thanks.
Hi Jun,
The SX210 has a much slower lens, so it’s not something I’d recommend for shooting concerts. You’re going to want to get as much light as possible to the sensor for this kind of low light shooting. I stand by my recommendation of the S95 – it’s a great little camera.
Great! Thank you so much. I have now decided! Good karma for you. :)
I just bought my S95! Now, how do i use it? LOL! Is it advisable to keep on “auto” mode during concert? Or, I really need to find its tune? Forgive me, im so cam-naive! Thanks! :)
I was recently denied entry to a club with my digital slr so I was thinking about buying the cannon s90. Will this camera work for shooting in extremely low light (red and blue tinted stage light)? Also, if I take a picture with it (and use the zoom without the flash) will it capture the image without blur? If so what are the best settings? Thanks for your reply and for creating such a cool site.
know how u feel! RT @heyitsmejenni: Guy said I should get a real camera (not snarky, he meant it.) laughed it off, but: http://ht.ly/4bhhT
Hi! I am not a photographer but i like taking nice photos and videos.
I was thinking of buying Canon Digital Camera SX 220HS.
What do you think?
@jjfoto Kijk ff bij ishootshows, oa deze post: http://bit.ly/pXY04q
@binkzack1 @toddowyoung did an article on that: http://tinyurl.com/3yyuudq
Hi Todd, I’m an avid concert go-er/aspiring music journalist based in Los Angeles, and living here makes it extremely hard to get a press pass. However, a lot of the shows are general admission so getting up close is quite possible. I was thinking of getting one of these cameras you mentioned above. Which one is probably the most well rounded of the three? Or perhaps there’s some newer ones not mentioned here. Please also take into consideration bigger stadiums or festivals. Thanks!
-Trish
Overall I think the Panasonic LX-5 may well be the best compromise. It’s got a great lens that still maintains a fast aperture and in a smaller form factor than the G12. It’s also still small enough to be firmly P&S. However, for festivals and bigger venues where you will not be right up at the front, the longer lens of the G12 will be better.
Hi Todd
Just wondering what you think of the Fuji X-100 and soon to be released Fuji X-10, maybe the X-10 is already released in the USA (www.jr.com have it priced at $699). The X-100 is a bit out of my price range since i have spent €3000 on equipment that i cant get into a lot of gigs. The X-100 is €1100 in europe with no zoom, the sales rep told me i could crop the image, i told him to crop the price. Anyhow the X-10 looks good to a novice like me and i should be able to get it into gigs. Have you access to either or both of these cameras to review.
Thanks
Garry
@SAShenk here's a link to a decent article http://t.co/m6VHZvIi the current canon models are S95 and G12
Hi Todd;
As an avid concert goer, and avid photographer, when I moved to New York City in April 2007, I noticed the abundance of concerts and small venues I could attend. I immediately recognized my small point & shoot camera were not even close to sufficient for decent pictures and video.
So my search started for a starter camera. I am partial to Nikon, but if it serves the complete purpose, brand names are irrelevant. Since security is usually tight regarding professional (SLR) cameras since I don’t typically have a photo pass, I needed a point & shoot that would get the kind of pictures and video I wanted, and guarantee I could get past security by having a non-professional camera.
The features I was looking for are HD video capability, reasonable telephoto capability, variable lcd tilt display
Shortly after my search began, Nikon introduced the P100, and about a year later, upped the ante with the P500.
The P500 has 12 mp, wide optical 36x zoom lens, variable tile lcd display, and also takes still pictures while recording HD video. The problem with this camera is the open mic, which is only good for lower volume concerts.
There is also a button on the lens that steadies the zoom telephoto, so it doesn’t zoom too slow or fast. I found this to work out excellent at the Deep Purple concert at Beacon theatre.
However, there is no option for external mic, so my search continues for a point & shoot camera with SLR features listed above, and external mic option.
A friend of mine in the hard metal Life of Agony group has provided photo passes, but I’m working on getting more. I want to do this the right way, with the best equipment. So far, these are only for personal use, but that’ll change later.
I also plan on contacting you directly this week for input.
Thanks
Jeff
New York City
Jeff,
Do you have some examples of pics you took with the P500? I’m seriously considering it, as my day-to-day (non professional) camera is an old SLR (D40) and my local venue hates them. I think they should allow them with low zoom lens since so many non-pros own them now. You really can’t get great pics with a non zoom lens unless you are in the first 5 rows.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Alicia;
I can provide plenty of pictures, send your direct e-mail address to jsmithnyc@si.rr.com.
Jeff
Hey thanks for this article Todd, I was just wondering if you were planning on doing an update to include some of the newer models out now seeing as this article is over a year old now? Cheers.
I was wondering what your opinion is of the newest lot of point and shoot camera’s out now? One thing I’m looking for in addition to being good with low-light and speed, is an image stabilizer.. I was looking at a couple I came across recently, the Olympus SP-810UZ and the Sony NEX-5N..unless there is something else you would recommend instead?
Todd
What are the differences between G11 and G12 and which one is better in terms of concert photography
Thank you
Alex
Which one would you guys recommend for filming videos at concerts?
Hi Todd- great article. I am starting a blog to review live shows that I attend and would like a good camera to take with me. I attend around 2-3 shows a month (sometimes more in the summer) and my iPhone is not cutting it. While I’d love to get a DSLR, realistically I know that getting it into a concert would prove challenging. I too was hoping you give give advice on some of the updated models of the point and shoot cameras you recommend. More specifically, I’d like to know what you think of the Canon S100 and the Canon G12?
Also what do you think of the mirrorless cameras such as the Sony nex C3? Do you think this would be allowed in a concert venue or do I need to stick to a traditional point a shoot? (at least until my blog becomes so big that I am able to request press passes LOL)
You considering having anyone else on your blog..I’d love to contribute if you’ll let me lol..you can have a look at my concert photos on my facebook- http://facebook.com/RebeLeeous