OIS and Tripods

My camera has an awesome feature called "Optical Image Stabilization" (OIS). It works by physically moving the lenses to compensate for rough camera motion, such as when I'm shooting something handheld. It works amazingly well.

However, as with most things, if you use it outside of the proper context--handheld, or for a difficult camera move on a tripod--it can cause problems. I've read over and over again about how it's important to turn off Image Stabilization when you have your camera on a tripod, but I hadn't ever really thought about it too much on my shoots.

Well, this morning, while filming an interview, I set up my framing and started the take. A few seconds in the image moved and my framing was totally thrown off.


Image Stabilization on a Tripod Issue

So, for the most consistent results from your motionless shots: Turn off your Image Stabilization. In fact, it is recommended that you turn off image stabilization any time your camera is on a tripod, because it can cause problems if you try to do any smooth motion. Check out DJTV's "Steady As She Goes" for much more information about this subject.

~Luke Holzmann
Your Media Production Mentor