Need to know...Image Stabilization

[tmunson]

I am a newbie so please don't over amuse yourself with my question's;) ...

Is there any way to test Image Stabilization to ensure 1. that it is working, and 2. that it is operating correctly?

I just bought a Canon 28-135 IS USM and cannot tell if it is working. Should I be able to hear it working? Is there a way I can test it for normal operating characteristics.

Thanks for any help you can offer!!!

[Longwatcher]

It will make a slight humming noise, which you may or may not be able to hear.

However, the best way to check IS is to set your 28-135 at 135, point at a reasonably distant object with it off and then while still looking turn it on. That should make it very easy to tell.

At the 28 end you will see hardly if any effects of the IS in work.

BTW: I looked at your profile and you are precisely 10 years younger then me and live in the same state (okay, technically a commonwealth) no less. What part?

[Phil V]

Or; set the lens to 135mm in TV mode choose a shutter speed of 1/60, take a shot with the IS on and a shot with the IS off.
Examine the pictures on your screen side by side. If you can't see a difference; either the IS is broken or you drink far too much coffee. Sometimes the way to test if something works is simple; use it, the lens was designed to take pictures.;)

[tmunson]

I am a transplant...Originally from Idaho, and moved here to Manassas, VA 14 years ago. Thanks for all the info...I am extremely new at this and am sorting through the sophistication of this DSLR type camera. Again thanks for the response.