Answer
Do I need a lens with image stabilization?
Less than you used to. If your camera has IBIS, lens stabilization adds incremental benefit. For non-IBIS cameras, stabilization is highly valuable for telephoto and low-light handheld work.
When stabilization helps
- Telephoto lenses (100mm+) handheld
- Low-light handheld photography
- Video (combined with IBIS for the best results)
- Older bodies without IBIS
When it does not matter
- Tripod work
- Flash photography
- Sports / fast action (high shutter speeds freeze motion)
- Wide-angle lenses on modern IBIS bodies
Combined IS systems
Most modern systems combine IBIS + lens IS for synced stabilization, often delivering 7-8 stops total. The "synced" versions are clearly marketed by Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Panasonic.
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