IBIS

IBIS stands for In-Body Image Stabilisation, a technology used in cameras to reduce blur caused by camera shake. Unlike lens-based stabilisation systems, which are embedded in specific lenses, IBIS works by moving the camera’s sensor itself to compensate for any unintended movements. This results in sharper images, especially when shooting handheld in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.

How IBIS Works

The mechanism behind IBIS involves a floating sensor that can move along several axes—typically five—though some systems may stabilise along even more. These axes correspond to the most common types of camera shake:

  1. Pitch (tilting forward or backward)
  2. Yaw (rotating side to side)
  3. Roll (spinning the camera around the lens axis)
  4. X-Axis Shift (horizontal movement)
  5. Y-Axis Shift (vertical movement)

By actively countering these movements, the IBIS system helps keep the image stable on the sensor. The technology works in real time, calculating how the sensor should move by using gyroscopes and other motion sensors inside the camera. This level of precision allows for improvements of numerous stops in terms of shutter speed, making it possible to shoot at slower speeds than would otherwise be feasible without noticeable blur.

Advantages of IBIS

One of the key benefits of IBIS is its universality. Since the stabilisation happens in the camera body, it works with any lens attached to the camera, regardless of whether the lens itself has stabilisation features. This is a significant advantage for photographers who use a variety of lenses, especially older, manual, or third-party lenses that may not have built-in stabilisation.

IBIS is particularly useful in the following scenarios:

  • Low-light photography: It allows the photographer to use slower shutter speeds without needing a tripod.
  • Video recording: IBIS smooths out small handheld movements, resulting in more professional-looking footage.
  • Telephoto lenses: These longer lenses are more sensitive to camera shake, and IBIS helps keep images sharp when shooting at a distance.

Limitations of IBIS

While IBIS is effective, it does have some limitations:

  1. Not as effective with extreme movements: In scenarios involving rapid movement or extreme shakes (like in action sports), IBIS might not eliminate motion blur.
  2. Does not stabilise subject movement: It compensates for the camera’s movement, not the movement of subjects in the frame. So if your subject is moving quickly, you’ll still need a fast shutter speed to capture a sharp image.
  3. Heavier body: The additional mechanisms involved in moving the sensor can make the camera body slightly heavier or bulkier, especially compared to models that rely solely on lens-based stabilisation.

Dual IS: Combining IBIS with Lens Stabilisation

Some cameras offer a combination of IBIS and Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS), found in certain lenses. This is called Dual IS or 5-Axis Dual IS in some systems, where the body and lens work together to provide even more effective stabilisation. In such systems, the lens typically handles stabilisation along certain axes (like pitch and yaw), while the body compensates for the remaining axes (like roll and shift).

Major Manufacturers and IBIS

Several major camera manufacturers have adopted IBIS in their high-end models, and it has become increasingly popular across all segments of the market. Some notable examples include:

  • Sony: Their Alpha series mirrorless cameras feature advanced IBIS systems, particularly praised in their video-centric models like the A7S series.
  • Panasonic: The Lumix G series was one of the early adopters of IBIS, especially in their micro four-thirds systems.
  • Olympus: Known for pioneering advanced stabilisation, Olympus cameras like the OM-D E-M1 Mark III boast some of the best IBIS performance, offering up to 7.5 stops of stabilisation.
  • Canon and Nikon: Though traditionally more reliant on lens-based stabilisation, both manufacturers have started including IBIS in their newer mirrorless models, such as the Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z6.

In summary, IBIS is a highly versatile tool for both photographers and videographers, offering stabilisation across a range of lenses and shooting conditions. Its ability to reduce the effects of camera shake and improve the quality of handheld shooting, especially in challenging environments, has made it a sought-after feature in modern camera systems.