Image stabilisation has always been a rather obvious feature for me. Most of the modern lenses or camera bodies I’ve used have had electronic image stabilisation. I switch it on in the settings or via a button, and most of the time I forget about it entirely.
Today, however, I noticed that my new lens has three image stabilisation modes. So, I started looking for more information, and the most useful details I found were on Canon’s website (https://www.canon.fi/pro/infobank/image-stabilisation-lenses/).
Mode 3 means image stabilisation is only active when the shutter button is pressed. This option is recommended when the subject moves unpredictably (and quickly) during shooting. For example, in team sports or when photographing wildlife. IS Mode 3 is designed to detect panning motion, and when detected, the lens will only apply Image Stabilisation at right angles to the direction of the detected movement (like IS Mode 2).
This mode suits my style of photography and my subjects very well. So, right there and then, I switched the button position on my lens. The results will become apparent over time. If I remember, I’ll share my experiences here later.
Oh, and one more thing: you can keep image stabilisation on even when using a tripod or a monopod. In these situations, too, it helps to correct tiny vibrations and movements. I’ve known this for quite some time already, but reading the technical specifications confirmed it again.