steve_stoneblossom Loc: Rhode Island, USA

I recently purchased a new lens with VR, and I am aware of the need to deactivate when using a tripod. However, in another thread I read that VR can be not only unnecessary, but actually detrimental, at higher shutter speeds. Could anyone confirm or dispute?

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Consider that image stabilization, AKA vibration reduction, was originally developed to allow people take pictures as lower speeds than would have normally been possible. I think any high-speed advantage would be a bonus and not the intended purpose of the feature. I would not depend on it.

winterrose Loc: Kyneton, Victoria, Australia

The use of a tripod is intended to prevent camera movement and if it achieves that satisfactorily then VR, (camera Vibration Reduction) would naturally be unnecessary. There has been some extended discussion recently here brought about by an article by one Thom Hogan which purported that in theory, it is possible that under some certain circumstances the use of VR could cause a degree of detriment to image sharpness. Do your own tests by all means but I would put that among the growing list of so-called "sacred cows". Unless you carry a checklist of default settings around with you so you don't forget what to set on your camera ready for anything I suggest you will get a great many more blurry photographs because you forgot that VR was switched off than you might because a fast shutter speed had caused it. I am practical, if something makes a difference and I can see it, I will take it on but I don't dwell on largely ineffectual details. Cheers, Rob.

Festus Loc: North Dakota

Check out this article by Thom Hogan, really is an excellent review on VR.

http://www.bythom.com/nikon-vr.htm

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

For the most part poppycock doc ..... current lenses with VR are not affected while on a stationary object ..... I've never had an issue with the VR affecting fast shutter speeds .....

steve_stoneblossom Loc: Rhode Island, USA

Thank you Mogul, winterrose, Festus, and Wabbit. Maybe some tests are in order.

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

I don't question the workability of VR at higher speeds while using a tripod. I merely question its necessity. Inasmuch as a setting sun will necessitate the lowering of shutter speeds, I find no reason to be without it, even when shooting at higher speeds. OK, VR uses battery power; turn it off when it's not needed. Even Yosemite Sam could figure that one out; of course, Taz might have a problem with it.

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

..... battery power ain't the issue doc ..... VR is designed for slow shutters but OP wants to know if it affects fast shutter speeds .....

..... If is not an issue why have another setting to remember, just leave it on .....

..... Yosemite Sam and Taz already know well what you're first trying to learn ..... ha,ha,ha,ha,

steve_stoneblossom Loc: Rhode Island, USA

You are correct re: hand held vs tripod.

Seems I posted the question in an unclear manner; I meant to ask if using VR while hand holding camera at high shutter speeds could be detrimental.

Much as I would like to believe that VR at high speeds would be a non-factor, the Hogan article seems pretty thorough. At least the parts I read. My attention span is such that VR is unnecessary.

On the other hand, Wabbit, this is not the first time I've found myself in agreement with you.

Why, oh why, did I think the answer to this question would be clear cut and indisputable?? Silly wabbit...

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

Hey Doc ..... Thom's article is of course subjective and also outdated ..... note that it addresses the original VR systems, primarily Canon lenses used by sports photographers ..... they are concerned about Battery life and since the VR has no advantage at fast shutters what the heck, just turn the sucker off .....

..... VR is designed for slow shutter speeds and ya don't use slow for fast moving subjects ..... boinggggg ..... that leaves out sports photographers and photo journalists .....

..... his article was updated in June of 2010 ..... the new VR systems have been improved since then anyway .....