Sigma optical stabilization on tripod

Does the stabilization in Sigma lenses need to be turned off when on a tripod, specifically when using a gimbal head?

I used to have a 70-200 OS. For that lens, yes, turn off the OS when on a tripod.

For most lenses, this is a good idea. The exceptions are the lenses that have various "modes" on the IS switch. Some modes can handle specific situations. It is also a good idea to look at your situation. As an example, even though I have a relatively high end tripod, in some situations (like gusty winds) I find I can improve my image leaving IS ON. Experiment if need be, digital film is cheap.

Would treating a gimbal head like a ball head be appropriate? I'm new to gimbal heads and not sure, exactly, how to use one. I plan on working, a lot, with it, but would like some guidance please?

eddieb1 wrote in post #18133373
Does the stabilization in Sigma lenses need to be turned off when on a tripod, ...

I seem to find it makes little difference. I am sure at times it may hurt but at times it helps. Just like how it is when you hand hold it.

What lens? A gimbal is at its best with bigger teles.

Sigma 150-600C

Well generally when tracking using a gimbal head you will have the system lose, so that you can track, so you will be holding onto the camera/lens combination and imparting some unwanted motion, so yes you will want to most probably be using mode 2 OS. It's what I would do if I were using one for my one.

Personally for airshows, where I need to be able to swing the pan through 180 degrees as the aircraft pass across the front of me I always found using a tripod difficult. With that much rotation I used to find that I needed to walk around the thing. now I'm in a wheelchair there is zero chance to that. Back in the late 70's I discovered a shoulder stock system that I started using with a 400mm lens. This was of course pre image stabilisation, or even AF for that matter, and I found it very useful. Unfortunately I lost the thing over the years in some house move or other. When I got my 150-600 C I got hold of one of those cheap chinese made 15mm rail systems that they build video rigs from and built a shoulder pod out of that. I use it with a remote release taped to the front handle. It makes life really easy when you have a very large change in direction to deal with.

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If your hand is on the camera while you are taking photos then (maybe because I mostly do landscapes) I personally do not consider that to be 'on a tripod'. If you mean 'hands off' on a tripod, then I would turn off IS.

I used to have this lens and unless I was panning very quickly I left IS on because it helped be keep the AF point on the subject. I did not notice any problems with the IS when moving the lens fairly rapidly - e.g. following BIF.

eddieb1 wrote in post #18133373
Does the stabilization in Sigma lenses need to be turned off when on a tripod, specifically when using a gimbal head?

Why not just give it a try? I think you will be surprised at whether you can see or tell the difference most of the time.