Sep 7, 2010 I have several lenses with IS, and I've often wondered if it's better to turn it off when shooting at shutter speeds that are significantly higher than the reciprocal of the focal length. You can use the image stabilizer in Auto Focus (AF) or Manual Focus (MF) mode. When not using the image stabilizer, set the switch to 0 (OFF). Selecting the Image Stabilizer mode. Use MODE 1 for normal photography. Image Stabilizer Settings EF100-400mm F4.5-5.6L IS USM. Set the image stabilizer switch to I (ON). MODE 1 provides image stabilization in all directions. Using image stabilization is not cheating, but don’t let it turn you into a lazy photographer. Just be sure to use it correctly. 1. One such area of conventional wisdom that I have questioned for years is the notion that you need to turn off image stabilization when you place your camera on a tripod. And this is where image stabilization is a life saver. 2. (I use a 5D.) If Uncle Roger says it's safer with Canon lenses to turn off IS and therefore lock it, I'm turning my IS lenses off before putting them away in my bag or case. I've got two lenses that use it, the 24-105mm f/4 and the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS II and I've never noticed any difference in results on either. Canon's EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D is the latest in the company's line of diminutive DSLRs. The rationale is that the workings of the image stabilization inside the lens will create vibration, which will show up in your image as softness or blur. Image Stabilization: better to turn off at high shutter speeds? I've read a bunch of the questions here about image stabilization, but I don't see any concrete examples/proof or references with regards to the benefits of turning off image stabilization. You can’t have a tripod with you at all times; you won’t always have time to flip the mirror up for every shot. Good technique will always be your greatest asset. Despite its compact dimensions and fairly modest price, it has a modern sensor and produces great photographs - find out if it's right for you in our full review. YMMV.