Image Stabilization - How effective is it?

[kuhlkmk]

Hello - I'm interested in the new Panasonic TZ1 with the 10x zoom & image stabilization. My question is, how effective is IS without a tripod? Can I expect that my pictures, assuming a still subject, will turn out crisp even without a tripod? Or should I stick with one of their 6x models if I don't usually have a tripod with me? Thanks!

[capedeci]

it worked effectively!

very effective!

at widest angle, u'll get high success rate even with 1/4 second shutter speed (at least its with my FZ5).

When braced, you can go to as low as 1/2 seconds

But keep in mind that Pana's sensors are so noisy that even IS couldn't make up for it.

Long ago, when comparing something like Sony F717 (ISO400, no IS, f/2.0, 1/20s) exposed better than Panasonic FZ5 (ISO200, IS, F/2.8, 1/8s). Both are noisy, but the IS on FZ5 dont make it a good low light camera, just usable, as you can see a good low light performer without IS can do the same by boosting ISO (in this case, and faster lens).

But when talking about same sensor, one with IS, other without IS, always go for the IS one, as it'll be a better low light camera.

[tim11]

Panasonic IS is very effective. I can get sharp picture at 1/4sec when I really concentrate.
I didn't really appreciate my camera IS system until I got to use my uncle's camera - it has 6x optical zoom but no IS. I couldn't get sharp image with his camera at full zoom (6x) but never have the same problem with FZ20 at 12x.

[ReF]

IS can be VERY effective on still subjects. 6x can mean different things - what's relevant is the actual focal lengths. if you have decent lighting and can keep the shutter speed at 1/focal length (example: focal length is 200mm, you only need to keep the shutter speed at or above 1/200 sec), IS won't be neccessary.

[sw2cam]

IS helps...........if I had to have the shot, I'd have it on the tripod.