Lens for Band/Concert shooting.

[potphotos]

I get to see a lot of bands every week and fancy having a go at photographing them and was looking at buying one of the these two lenses for my Canon 450D...

Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC Macro (Canon Fit)

Sigma 28-70mm f2.8 EX DG Lens (Canon Fit)

...any advice on difference, which would be best suitable or best all round value/use etc?

...or maybe a similar lens in the price range £250.

Thanks in advance.

 

[chrisgeary]

Light levels are low, so you'll want at least f2.8 constant. You may also want a 50/1.8 as well.

 

[DizMatt]

as above, 2.8 is the way to go.
the nifty 50 is a cracking lens but hunts for focus a little too much in low light
the tamron 17-50 f2.8 is another favourite around that price mark.

 

[Anorakus]

The Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L is good, providing you can get fairly close to the stage.. The Sigma equivalent would do the job as well.

Here's a shot I did recently at a Queen tribute act.. 24-70mm f/2.8 L @ f/2.8 on my 5D mk II:

A.