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Image Stabilizationequipment

Tech (in lens or body) that counteracts hand shake so you can shoot slower handheld.

Stabilization (lens IS/VR/OSS or in-body IBIS) buys you several stops of slower shutter without blur from your own movement. It does NOT freeze a moving subject — only camera shake. For action you still need a fast shutter.

Use this when

  • Low light handheld, still subjects: turn IS on
  • On a tripod: often turn it off

Common mistake: Relying on IS to freeze a moving subject — it won't.