Image stabilization works by detecting small camera movements and shifting optical or sensor components to counteract them.

In lens-based systems (such as IS/VR), the lens uses motion sensors—commonly gyroscopic/angular velocity sensors—to detect shake in horizontal and vertical directions. Electronics then drive a floating lens element with electromagnets, moving it orthogonally to the optical axis so the projected image stays steadier on the sensor.

In in-body stabilization, the camera moves the image sensor itself instead of a lens element.

These systems are mainly designed to correct pitch and yaw caused by hand shake. Basic lens systems generally do not correct rotation around the optical axis. Some lenses also offer a special panning mode that compensates in only one direction, allowing intentional horizontal motion while still reducing vertical shake.

IS/VR is most useful for hand-held shooting in low light or with longer lenses, where small movements are magnified. It is not a cure-all and may be less effective for some types of vibration or subject motion.