Are there times to "not" use the Image Stablilizer feature?

[dannym]

I'm curious about this since I have a very shaky hand due to polio at an early age. Since it can be turned off, I assume there must be some advantage to doing so. Thanks in advance for any help.
Danny

[Jon]

If you're using a tripod, the IS is unnecessary. In fact, it can be counter-productive as it tries to "stabilize" the stable lens/camera combination and introduce blur. Newer IS lenses sense, and deactivate IS automatically, when they're on a tripod. But for almost any other conditions you can safely leave IS on. The only penalty is in the battery life.

[Medic1]

Some of the IS lenses don't do so well in fast panning situations. Some of the IS lenses have a setting for IS when moving....such as IS setting 2 on the 300 f4L

[dannym]

Thanks for the info. I have the 28-135 and the 100-400 IS lenses. Know anything about these?
Danny

[robertwgross]

The 28-135 lens is older, and it has only a single mode of I.S. function, on or nothing.

The 100-400 lens is newer, and it has two modes, one for general purposes and one for panning only.

---Bob Gross---

[slin100]

One reason in addition to the ones above is battery conservation.

In a studio environment when the predominant light is flash, IS is also unnecessary.

[CyberDyneSystems]

Danny,

Specifically with the 100-400mm.. you will find that you get the best use from it using IS on for all cirecumstances save the following.

Panning: When panning.. switch to "mode two"

Mounted on a SOLID tripod: Turn IS OFF ( 0 ) The 100-400mm is a 1st generation IS lens. It does not sense when it is on a tripod and does not have a "tripod mode"

All other uses including on a Monopod,. the IS can help a great deal.

[dannym]

Thanks again for all the help guys. I was really curious about the IS Modes. Maybe now I can get the most out of those lenses.