Image stabilization
Mar 3, 2021 06:39:09 #
If I am shooting with manual focus should I disable IS in the camera and on the lens when using a tripod?
Mar 3, 2021 06:42:33 #
Manual focus leave it on, Tripod (always) turn it off. OS and IBIS will add motion when perfectly still and result in a loss of sharpness.
Mar 3, 2021 06:57:55 #
It depends. It depends on the camera model and / or lens model. I shoot with my Sony a7II from a tripod and never ever turn off this camera's IBIS. For Canon DSLRs, all my IS-enabled Canon lenses are the Canon version II models. These lenses are designed by Canon to detect a stable tripod. I never turn off the IS for these lenses either.
It doesn't hurt to turn off the stabilization on a still tripod. Just remember to turn it back on when done. Consider too your usage. The camera locked down on a static subject is different than a loose ball tracking moving subjects from a tripod w/ gimbal or loose ball head where leaving the stabilization on is preferred.
Review your equipment and the references in the relevant product manuals. Whether using autofocus or manual focus doesn't matter for the decision about disabling the stabilization. Making generic recommendations across all camera technology is inaccurate advice.
It doesn't hurt to turn off the stabilization on a still tripod. Just remember to turn it back on when done. Consider too your usage. The camera locked down on a static subject is different than a loose ball tracking moving subjects from a tripod w/ gimbal or loose ball head where leaving the stabilization on is preferred.
Review your equipment and the references in the relevant product manuals. Whether using autofocus or manual focus doesn't matter for the decision about disabling the stabilization. Making generic recommendations across all camera technology is inaccurate advice.
Mar 3, 2021 07:57:09 #
Mar 3, 2021 08:39:11 #
petrochemist
Loc: UK
I've seen a few tripods that would need IS more than handholding, but the standard advice is to turn it off on a Tripod. I've never noticed a difference when I forget, so it's possible advice left over from the very earliest generations of IS - or the introduced blur requires serious pixel peeping to spot.
Handheld I can't think of any reason why you'd want it disabled for manual focus & not for AF.
Handheld I can't think of any reason why you'd want it disabled for manual focus & not for AF.
Mar 3, 2021 10:46:15 #
Thanks for the replies. I thought that the issue had to do with autofocus refocusing on the tripod and that in manual focus it wouldn't happen.
Mar 3, 2021 14:40:00 #
IDguy
Loc: Idaho
fran120 wrote:
Thanks for the replies. I thought that the issue had to do with autofocus refocusing on the tripod and that in manual focus it wouldn't happen.
I initially thought it had nothing to do with focus which happens somewhat independently of VR. Different sensors. But I was reminded DSLRs use the viewfinder image for focus so the effects of lens VR are relevant.
The issue was that if the camera was rock solid the old VR systems frequency response could cause them to move when the lens wasn’t moving.
Most recent VR systems are smart enough to sense if they are stable enough to not need VR. So, contrary to dated advice you will get here, you probably should leave VR on when using a tripod.
Mar 3, 2021 15:46:36 #
petrochemist
Loc: UK
fran120 wrote:
Thanks for the replies. I thought that the issue had to do with autofocus refocusing on the tripod and that in manual focus it wouldn't happen.
Many cameras these days use sensor movement for IS (this varient is now often called IBIS for in body image stabilisation). Such sensor based stabilisation is quite capable of working with lenses over 100 year old - I don't think I've personally used it on lenses older than the 1930's yet, but if I manage to arrange a mount for the Victorian magnifying glass I have it will work with that too.
Lens bases stabilisation is AFAIK only found in lenses that can autofocus but it continues to work when they are switched to manual focus. Simply refocusing the lens will not help with most camera movement, instead a few lens elements are tilted or displaced sideways...
Mar 4, 2021 06:17:07 #
tcthome
Loc: NJ
Do a test to see the results. What do shoot with &, check the manual for your camera & lens.
Mar 4, 2021 07:38:14 #
You forgot to mention if your subject is going to be moving or still. Moving on a tripod l always use AF. Helps with IS of a moving subject.
Mar 4, 2021 09:18:45 #
mizzee
Loc: Boston,Ma
Depends on the camera. I don’t have to turn my Olympus’ IS off when on a tripod, but I had to with my Nikon.
Mar 4, 2021 10:52:54 #
CHG_CANON wrote:
It depends. It depends on the camera model and / o... (show quote)
Good advise Paul. For me, I never turn it off. When I do, I forget to turn it back on, and Lord knows I need it. At my age, Its getting harder and harder for me to stay steady.
At my age, I'm fighting two syndromes. CRS and SS. Can't remember s***, and shaky syndrome.
Mar 4, 2021 12:06:37 #
Hand held using manual or auto focus, leave the IS on. When using a tripod, turn it off.
Mar 4, 2021 13:33:26 #
I am going to tell you that accidentally and using modern lenses I have shot with IS on while the camera is on a tripod without ill effects. That has happened to me with in camera IS and with IS in the lens.
Manufacturers recommend to keep IS off when the camera is on a tripod regardless of the shooting mode.
Manufacturers recommend to keep IS off when the camera is on a tripod regardless of the shooting mode.
Mar 4, 2021 14:58:35 #
fran120 wrote:
If I am shooting with manual focus should I disable IS in the camera and on the lens when using a tripod?
If you're shooting with a Sony, leave it on.
bwa
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.