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05/24/2006 09:27:53 AM · #1 |
Does image stabilization/vibration reduction actually work and is it worth the money?
My handheld technique is respectable IMHO but I'm thinking of buying the Nikon 70-200mm 2.8 VR...OR The Sigma version if the VR function is just a gimmick. Money's no object but it's always an object...if that makes sense?
At the long end (200mm) I think it will be helful...any thoughts?
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05/24/2006 09:30:00 AM · #2 |
For the type of photography you do- yes it will be. Last time I looked, you didn't do much in the way of tripod based photography. :)
Flat out, VR makes a major impact at the long end when you are handheld. It's worth the investment. I've been putting off purchasing my 70-200 until I can swing the VR lens. I think it's that critical. |
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05/24/2006 09:31:05 AM · #3 |
It's tremendously useful, I think. I only have in-body AS on my camera (which works better at short focal lengths rather than long) but I can still comfortably shoot at down to 1/80s or so at 300mm (450mm equiv.), and at the extreme I was about to squeeze out a couple handheld sharp pictures at 1/8s at that focal length. I think the VR would do slightly better.
Keep in mind it's really only beneficial for static/slow moving subjects, as IS won't 'freeze' motion like a faster shutter will. |
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05/24/2006 09:31:15 AM · #4 |
I use mine for sports.
Battery eaters.
Great for moving targets, not advised for sitting targets.
I love mine.
I know this doesn't help, but if money is not an object, then go for it.
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05/24/2006 09:31:56 AM · #5 |
| Oh yes, at 200mm you will see a big difference. I'm no slouch with hand holding either, I can sometimes beat the 1/focal length rule by almost a stop (more if braced) but IS allows me to get keepers as low as 1/30s @ 200mm without bracing. |
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05/24/2006 09:32:28 AM · #6 |
It really is amazing technology and well worth the extra cost to NEVER suffer from camera shake again. My lens purchase will all be IS in the future. (I need more pennies in the piggy bank!!)
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05/24/2006 09:34:29 AM · #7 |
I love my VR lens, it helps tremendously. When I get more more money i will be investing in more VR lenses. What i really want is the Nikon 80-400mm VR. 1000.00$ but worth it.
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05/24/2006 09:36:44 AM · #8 |
| Bear in mind that VR is not the only edge the Nikon 70-200mm 2.8 VR has, the sharpness is the stuff of legends. |
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05/24/2006 09:52:42 AM · #9 |
I almost never use a tripod, I wish the voters knew that on occasion...they'd certainy have a greater appreciation for my work knowing how quick and adrenaline charged some of my shots are...
So the VR is "the juice"?
Battery eater??? It can be turned off if I recall?
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05/24/2006 10:07:00 AM · #10 |
The VR can be turned off. I'm still shooting for hours with the same battery and having juice left over. It's awesome.
The Nikon 2.8 70-200 has 4 switches. VR on & off, MA vs. M, Limited vs. full range (limits the amount searched for on autofocus) and Active on & off (active is used when in/on a moving platform ie: auto, boat, etc.)
Becky
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05/24/2006 10:19:47 AM · #11 |
I was a non-believer in IS until the day I bought a lens with the function.
I have Canon 300mm f/4 L IS and I can't imagine shooting handheld without it. It really does make quite a difference. I was amazed that I could get a clear blur-free shot shooting with lens at 1/125th with a 1.4x extender added on. That's hand held at 420mm or 672mm if you consider 1.6x camera crop factor! No blur to be seen.
All my longer lenses will have it from now on I think. Not sure I'd get it for anything below 100mm though.
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05/24/2006 10:29:37 AM · #12 |
agreed, i have the 28-135mm IS and i frequently turn the IS off just to save the camera battery.
Originally posted by Beagleboy:
Not sure I'd get it for anything below 100mm though. |
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