In-camera IS at long focal lengths

[A.M.D.A.]

Thanks very much for the many replies everyone, and the wealth of useful info!

Sushigaijin – I did not previously know that Olympus allows focal lengths of a particular lens to be dialed in to optimize the in-camera IS system. This was one of my major debating points versus in-lens IS. No so much of a debate point any more, thanks! :thumbsup:

Do PENTAX and Sony allow "focal length dialing" too?

First of all, I've never used a body-stabilized camera so I don't really qualify saying anything here.

Secondly, I do think that body stabilization makes more sense than a lens stabilized system.


But I did have a question: since the in-body stabilization occurs at the sensor level, you can't see the effects through the viewfinder, right? I shoot a lot with 500mm and 600mm setups and I really enjoy the lens-stabilized images in the viewfinder. Trying to see detail, compose, and focus at those focal lengths is difficult without lens stabilization - especially if the target is fast.

Just a thought.

Good point.

I am wondering what if Olympus releases a Micro Four-Thirds camera body with IS, that would mean a stabilized view in the LCD screen, and if there is an EVF viewfinder – there also, since the view is being "feeded" from the sensor itself. Am I right?

[Sushigaijin]

You guys are ALL right.

It is a benefit of lens based systems that you get a stabilized viewfinder, and the EVF of any stabilized oly m4/3 camera will be stabilized also.

The EVFs of my sonys were stabilized when the IS was on, and it was a noticeable difference when shooting loooong telephoto - but much of that is cleared up by the SLR view...I think that part of the advantage is not having to wait for a slow refreshing LCD. The eye is much faster.

As to the answer to "dialing in" focal lengths, I am positive that the other systems automatically adjust for compatible lenses as the olympus does also. The "dialing in" is support for incompatible or legacy lenses. As to legacy and incompatible support with other systems, I don't know.

[danic]

Do PENTAX and Sony allow "focal length dialing" too?

I do know Pentax allows you to dial in a focal length. I have a nice 55mm Super Tak lens, which allows me to use on the K100D Super. I get in body IS and a great legacy lens, all in one