🎸 My Must-Have Concert Photography Essentials (Gear, Tools, and Self-Care Favorites)

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after photographing thousands of bands, it’s that having the right concert photography essentials can make or break your night.

From the gear that helps me nail every shot to the comfort items that keep me grounded during long show days, this list includes everything I personally use, love, and recommend. Some of these links are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).

Let’s dive into the tools that make my job easier, my art stronger, and my nights in the photo pit a lot more enjoyable.

📸 Camera Gear I Can’t Live Without

Canon EOS R with 24–105mm f/4 Kit Lens - This was my first mirrorless camera, and it’s still one of my favorite bodies for live shows. The 24–105 mm f/4 kit lens makes this bundle super versatile — you get wide shots, close-ups, and everything in between without constantly swapping lenses. Its low-light performance and color depth are perfect for dynamic stage lighting.

Canon EOS R6 - When you’re ready to level up, the R6 is a powerhouse. The autofocus tracking is razor sharp and can handle fast-moving artists, unpredictable lighting, and confetti explosions like a champ.

Canon 50 mm f/1.8 Lens - If you’ve followed my work, you already know this is the lens I swear by. It’s lightweight, fast, and magical in low light — perfect for capturing emotion and atmosphere in concert portraits.

Concert photography gear I actually use!

🎒 Bags & Accessories That Make My Life Easier

Promaster Camera Bag - Compact but surprisingly spacious, this bag keeps my gear organized and easy to grab between sets.

Vivitar Backpack - For longer travel days or festivals, I use this backpack — tons of compartments, lightweight, and sturdy enough for touring.

SD Card Holder - Never underestimate the power of a good card case. It’s one of those small essentials that saves you in chaotic photo pits.

💾 Editing & Storage Must-Haves

SanDisk 128 GB SD Cards - Fast, reliable, and built for back-to-back sets. I never shoot a show without extras in my pocket.

LaCie Hard Drive - This is my trusted long-term backup solution. Rugged, portable, and dependable — especially when you’re traveling.

Samsung T7 Shield - This compact SSD is my go-to for editing on the go. Lightning-fast and shock-resistant (trust me, I’ve tested that).

Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan - My entire post-show workflow runs on Lightroom and Photoshop. If you’re serious about concert photography, this subscription is absolutely worth it.

👂 Comfort & Protection for Long Nights

Eargasm Earplugs - Protect your hearing — it’s your most valuable tool besides your camera. These are comfortable, discreet, and reduce volume without muffling the sound.

Brooks Shoes - I’ve shot hundreds of shows wearing these. They keep my feet, knees, and back happy through long nights and festival weekends.

Bella + Canvas Zip-Up Hoodie - Lightweight, soft, and easy to throw on when the venue AC is blasting or you’re waiting for load-out.

Black Camisole - Layering is key when you’re in fluctuating venue temperatures. This simple black camisole is perfect under hoodies or jackets — comfortable, breathable, and versatile for both work and casual off-stage moments.

Stephanie Sheronovich wearing earplugs, a black camisole, and Brooks Shoes.

☕ Wellness & Energy Boosters

Dandy Blend - My go-to drink for caffeine-free energy. It’s made with roasted dandelion root and gives that cozy, coffee-like flavor — perfect for editing sessions or pre-show rituals.

Ovasitol - As someone managing PCOS, this supplement has been a big help for balancing energy and hormones. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Building Your Own Concert Photography Kit

Every photographer’s setup looks a little different, but these are the concert photography essentials that make me feel supported — creatively, physically, and mentally.

From reliable gear that never lets me down to small comfort items that keep me grounded through 12-hour days, this list reflects years of trial, error, and pure love for live music.

If you’re building your own concert photography kit, start small, invest in quality where it matters most, and never forget the self-care side of this career.