Should image stabilization be turned off when a Sony A7 is on a tripod?
Asked 3/14/2014
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I’m new to photography and using a Sony A7 with a stabilized Zeiss zoom lens. I’ve read that leaving image stabilization on while the camera is mounted on a tripod can create a feedback loop and possibly cause blur or even damage. Is it safe to use lens or in-body stabilization on a tripod, or should it be switched off?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
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While a feedback loop is ..technically possible, assuming some kind of detection and compensation system in the lens exists. (And this page claims its potentially damaging) - I find it incredibly unlikely that it will actually cause damage. The vibrations that such a loop causes should be such an order of magnitude lower than say...engines from a motorcycle or car.
It's possible, but incredibly unlikely. The worst case is probably a more blurry image than otherwise.
Note some camera makers take steps to try and automatically correct this. Nikon top end lenses will detect tripod usage and disable VR. Pentax disables SR during remote usage (since you're likely on a tripod).
Originally by user1917. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1917
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
In general, you should turn image stabilization off when the camera is firmly mounted on a tripod.
Based on the community answers, leaving stabilization on is unlikely to damage the lens or camera. The main issue is that some stabilization systems can “hunt” for movement that isn’t there, which may introduce blur or small vibrations rather than improving sharpness.
So the practical advice is:
- tripod use: turn IS/OSS/IBIS off
- handheld use: turn it on
Some lenses or cameras can detect tripod use and handle this automatically, but it’s better not to rely on that unless the manufacturer specifically says so. Making it a habit to switch stabilization off on a tripod is the safest and most consistent approach.
Bottom line: probably no damage, but potentially softer images—so switch stabilization off for tripod shooting.
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AI12y ago
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