How to enable and use IBIS on a Sony or Canon camera?
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) is built into many modern mirrorless cameras but it is not always enabled by default and has settings that affect its performance. Here is how to activate and optimize it on Sony and Canon cameras.
Enabling IBIS on Sony cameras
Step 1: Go to Menu → Camera Settings → SteadyShot.
Step 2: Set SteadyShot to On.
Step 3: If using an adapted lens without electronic contacts, go to SteadyShot Settings → SteadyShot Focal Length → enter the focal length of your lens manually. IBIS needs the focal length to calculate correct compensation.
Step 4: For video, also check SteadyShot in Movie Settings → set to Active for stronger stabilization (slight crop) or Standard for less crop.
Active mode: Stronger stabilization but crops the image by about 10%. Best for handheld walking shots. Standard mode has no crop and handles stationary handheld well.
Enabling IBIS on Canon cameras
Step 1: Go to Menu → Shooting Settings → IS (Image Stabilizer) Mode.
Step 2: Set IS Mode to On.
Step 3: For adapted EF lenses without IS, IBIS works automatically — no manual focal length entry needed on most Canon RF bodies.
Step 4: For video, go to Movie Settings → Movie Digital IS. Options: Off (IBIS only), Enable (IBIS + digital crop stabilization), Enhanced (maximum stabilization with larger crop).
Canon coordinated IS: When using an RF or EF lens with built-in IS on a body with IBIS, both systems work together automatically — no settings needed. The combined system achieves up to 8 stops.
IBIS cameras at Camera Shop Egypt
When to turn IBIS off
On a tripod: Turn IBIS off. The system can overcorrect for vibrations that do not exist, actually introducing slight blur. Most cameras detect tripod use and disable IBIS automatically, but manual override is safer.
On a gimbal: Some users turn IBIS off when using a gimbal because the two stabilization systems can conflict. Others leave it on for micro-vibration correction. Test both with your specific gear.
Panning shots: Some IBIS systems resist deliberate panning motion. If your pans feel sticky, try switching to a panning-specific IS mode if available.
If you use adapted manual lenses (vintage primes, cinema lenses), always set the focal length in the IBIS menu. Without this information, the stabilization cannot calculate correct compensation and will underperform or overcorrect.
