Which to get first?

[raynerg]

Hi guys, new shooter here, got a question to ask. I'll be covering a concert in a couple of week's time, and i feel maybe my zoom range won't be powerful enough to get closeup shots, so was thinking of investing in a 70-200 f4L, but was wondering if f4 is enough for baybeats-style lighted stages or should i invest in a flash instead? I'm using 40D with 18-55mm IS kit lens btw, nothing else.

cheers and regards

[hammie]

Does your concert even allow flash in the first place?

[raynerg]

Sorry forgot to mention, yes it does, as it is a public outdoor event.

[kelvinkhoo]

Originally Posted by raynerg Sorry forgot to mention, yes it does, as it is a public outdoor event.

than invest in a gd flashlight like the canon speedlight 580 EX II................

[raynerg]

So means 18-55 will be enough to take from just below the stage? Probably will be right in front, that zoom range is enough?

[prodigic]

Originally Posted by raynerg So means 18-55 will be enough to take from just below the stage? Probably will be right in front, that zoom range is enough?

I suggest u rent the lens u want. Then go to the concert site and test your range at different positions from the stage. Take a few shots. Then decide if u should get the lens and how much frequency will u be using it. At least by renting first it wont be a big dent in your pocket.

[xxpmrong]

I dont think 55mm is enough if you focus on a particular band member... buy the 55-250 IS and the 580 EX II flash, price will be less than the 70-200 f4 L lens

[ckpy7677]

Originally Posted by xxpmrong I dont think 55mm is enough if you focus on a particular band member... buy the 55-250 IS and the 580 EX II flash, price will be less than the 70-200 f4 L lens

I agreed as mention above....

[bEnd1ck]

Buy the flash and rent the lens
Good idea to test shoot at location.

[Headshotzx]

580EXII first. Followed by either renting the 70-200f/4L or buying the 55-250IS.

[raynerg]

thanks for all the quick replies guys, guess i'll start looking around the flash market for a good price now..

[Headshotzx]

Originally Posted by raynerg thanks for all the quick replies guys, guess i'll start looking around the flash market for a good price now..

The Oracle's selling 580EXII with warranty @ S$630; that's the best price.

[engrmariano]

Originally Posted by xxpmrong I dont think 55mm is enough if you focus on a particular band member... buy the 55-250 IS and the 580 EX II flash, price will be less than the 70-200 f4 L lens

55mm is enough if your in front of the stage.

taken with 17-55 at 55 f/2.8. im standing about 15ft from the artist.

[xxpmrong]

ey, you were there!
this one using 55-250 from the rear of the crowd with no flash...

sorry beginner shot:



ey, how do you post a pic that big?!

[calebk]

Originally Posted by engrmariano 55mm is enough if your in front of the stage. taken with 17-55 at 55 f/2.8. im standing about 15ft from the artist.

OT: what's the name of this artiste? I do believe I was there too but didn't bring long glass so I just decided to enjoy the show. Haha.

[xxpmrong]

Originally Posted by calebk OT: what's the name of this artiste? I do believe I was there too but didn't bring long glass so I just decided to enjoy the show. Haha.

They are Imago from the Philippines

[EiRiK]

Originally Posted by raynerg Hi guys, new shooter here, got a question to ask. I'll be covering a concert in a couple of week's time, and i feel maybe my zoom range won't be powerful enough to get closeup shots, so was thinking of investing in a 70-200 f4L, but was wondering if f4 is enough for baybeats-style lighted stages or should i invest in a flash instead? I'm using 40D with 18-55mm IS kit lens btw, nothing else. cheers and regards

definitely enuff if u are right infront of the stage. i have used the 17-40 for a similar gig, good enuff for half-body shots, unless u want head and shoulder portraits then need a longer lens.
safer to get a flash. but if u can really get so near, may not need flash too.