Choosing a Full Frame Mirrorless Camera for Concert Photography

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When it comes to concert photography, the choice of camera can make a world of difference. Two common types of cameras used in this field are APS-C and Full-Frame cameras. Before we get into the top five full-frame mirrorless cameras for concert photography, let’s take a quick look at the differences between these two types of cameras.

APS-C vs Full Frame Cameras for Concert Photography

  • Sensor Size: Full-frame cameras have a larger sensor size compared to APS-C. This means they can capture more light, which is crucial in the typically low-light conditions of a concert.
  • Image Quality: Thanks to the larger sensor, full-frame cameras generally offer better image quality, particularly in terms of dynamic range and noise performance. This of course can be subjective, but in technical terms it’s true.
  • Depth of Field: Full-frame cameras offer a shallower depth of field, which can be useful for creating a blurred background effect and making the subject stand out.
  • Price: APS-C cameras are usually less expensive than Full Frame cameras. However, the latter can be a worthy investment for professional concert photographers due to their superior performance.

Below is a list of suggestions of Full Frame cameras1 available right now on the market that can be greatly recommended for Concert Photography.

1. Sony Alpha a7 III and A7IV

While they have significant differences, both cameras are still my first recommendation for concert photography. I’ve shot many concerts with the A7III and only upgraded to another Sony (A7RV) as I also do other types of photography, but the A7 IV would be the most direct upgrade, having better low-light capabilities than the A7R series.

Basic Specs: 

  • A7III: 24.2MP, 10fps continuous shooting, 4K video
  • A7IV: 33MP, 10fps continuous shooting, 4K video

Reasons to Buy:

  • A7III: Excellent low-light performance, fast and accurate autofocus, long battery life
  • A7 IV: High-resolution sensor, improved autofocus performance, versatile video capabilities

Limitations:

  • A7III: Complex menu system, only one SD card slot supports UHS-II
  • A7IV: Pricing might be higher compared to some competitors

Recommended Lenses:

  • Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM
  • Sony FE 85mm f/1.8
  • Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS

Estimated Cost (UK): £1,700 (A7III) and £2,279.00 (A7IV)

Taken with Tamron 35-150mm and Sony A7III

2. Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Basic Specs:

  • 20.1MP, 12fps (mechanical shutter) / 20fps (electronic shutter), 4K video

Reasons to Buy:

  • Outstanding autofocus system
  • In-body image stabilization
  • Dual card slots

Limitations:

  • Lower resolution compared to competitors

Recommended Lenses:

  • Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
  • Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM
  • Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

Estimated Cost (UK): £2,500

3. Nikon Z6 II

Basic Specs: 24.5MP, 14fps continuous shooting, 4K video

Reasons to Buy:

  • Solid build quality
  • Excellent image quality
  • Dual card slots

Limitations:

  • Limited native lens selection
  • Video features are not as strong as competitors

Recommended Lenses:

  • Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
  • Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S
  • Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S

Estimated Cost (UK): £1,699

Photo by Emmanuel Pampuri using the Nikkor Z 24-70mm

4. Panasonic Lumix S1

Basic Specs: 24.2MP, 9fps continuous shooting, 4K video

Reasons to Buy:

  • Great image stabilization
  • High-resolution viewfinder
  • Robust build

Limitations:

  • Autofocus is not as fast as competitors
  • Heavier than most mirrorless cameras

Recommended Lenses:

  • Panasonic Lumix S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8
  • Panasonic Lumix S PRO 50mm f/1.4
  • Panasonic Lumix S PRO 70-200mm f/4 O.I.S.

Estimated Cost (UK): £1,900

Photo by Andy Eclov

5. Sony Alpha a9 III

Basic Specs: 33MP, 30fps continuous shooting, 8K video

Reasons to Buy:

  • Exceptional autofocus
  • High-speed continuous shooting
  • Excellent low-light capabilities

Limitations:

  • Expensive
  • The menu system could be simpler

Recommended Lenses:

  • Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM
  • Sony FE 55mm f/1.8 ZA
  • Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS

Estimated Cost (UK): £5,000-£6,000

Remember, the best camera is the one your have, but of course think of your specific needs and budget before making a decision. Always take the time to research and try out different options before making a decision. I am personally a very happy Sony shooter for the past 10 years, but I’ve seen amazing pictures taken with any of those cameras above.

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