When to turn off stabilization (VR/IS/VC/etc)

[teko]

Recently a coworker told me, it's actually best to turn stabilization (VR/IS) off all the time unless when we actually need it. He showed me this article that explains it: http://www.bythom.com/nikon-vr.htm

I know that lens stabilization (VR/IS) is better turned off when using the tripod, but I never knew about the other cases before.

I personally have not turned off the VR on my lenses (except for tripod use). It's not just for convenience, I'm afraid I will forget to turn it back on and ruined some pictures.

I'm guessing the difference is too small for me to notice myself, so I'll probably just keep doing what I've been doing. It would be nice if someday we can set the settings in camera to only use the VR when shooting on certain shutter speed.

What do you guys think?

[SpecialK]

Turn it off when on a tripod, and some panning circumstances. Some cameras automatically turn it off when using the timer or other triggering methods.

[Csae]

I read some of the article (Long ass read)

And it raises some interesting points, i am not sure if its true or not, i'd have to do my own tests but it does have some logical merits.

Basically it says don't turn it on when you don't need it, because its one more factor that could affect your IQ.

IMO, you should also turn it off just to prevent battery drain.

[SpecialK]

Stabilization only happens for a second or two, so I can't imagine it putting much draining on a battery. Extra batteries are available in any event. With all the emphasis into making stabilized bodies/lenses (for years) I'd be surprised if there was any IQ loss that was not far exceeded by the use of filters.

[mattdm]

I've seen some careful work with the Pentax stabilization system where it's demonstrated that the SR system is either helpful or harmless at any shutter speed (and actually useful at much faster speeds than people guessed). I haven't looked for other brands, but I doubt that that result is brand-specific.

[K1W1]

I rarely have VR turned on on my 70-200 for sports. When shooting at 1/500 sec or faster there is no need for it and it does make a noticeable difference in focus acquisition speeds. When I forget and have VR on I miss focus on way more shots than I do when it's off.

As well as tripod use I also turn VR off when I'm using a monpod.

[Dread Pirate Roberts]

Also had photos stuffed by VR, mainly when deciding to intentionally pan a moving subject on short notice.

At the zoo, waiting for the lions to yawn you can be holding the shutter half pressed for ages VR for that long is a significant energy drain with the 70-200.