I haven’t even moved up to the 70-200. Still rocking the push/pull 80-200 f2.8D(nikon) over here lol. It is my most used lens indoors. It and the 50mm f1.4D. Have rented and shot the 70-200 several times just can’t justify the cost to buy when the 80-200 is doing the job.
If you have a contract with the band stating whats said in OP all further communications should be through your lawyer. No contract, you’re screwed.
Do you have a signed contract?
If you shoot inside in uncontrollable lighting situations you will need the 2.8. It’s pretty much that simple. F4 fine for lit stage indoors, or studio obviously, but other than that I’m packing my 2.8 indoors.
Didn’t mention a price, or max size prints, but the epson P900 produces great photos.
Raw image untouched, send it. Seriously though she’s paying the bills the post work is getting done.
I wouldn’t get out of bed for that.