bildestabilisering

Bildestabilisierung, or image stabilization, refers to techniques that reduce blur caused by camera movement during exposure or video recording. The goal is to preserve sharpness and smooth motion by compensating for unintended shake, especially at longer focal lengths or low light.

There are several approaches. Optical image stabilization (OIS) moves optical elements within the lens (or the sensor itself in sensor-shift systems) to counteract detected motion. Sensor-shift stabilization uses the camera’s sensor, shifting it in two or more axes to keep the image steady. Electronic image stabilization (EIS), sometimes called digital stabilization, relies on sensors and software to crop and realign frames, which can introduce some loss of image area or resolution but reduces visible shake, particularly in videos. Hybrid systems combine optical and electronic methods for greater stabilization.

Stabilization can be built into lenses, cameras, or both, and is also implemented in professional setups with gimbals and multi-axis rigs for video and cinema work. In consumer devices, smartphones often use sensor-based or lens-based OIS along with digital stabilization to maintain stable photos and smooth video, while drones and action cameras frequently rely on gimbal-based stabilization.

Applications span photography, videography, broadcasting, and unmanned aerial systems. Benefits include sharper stills at slower shutter speeds and smoother footage in dynamic shooting conditions. Limitations include potential crop or resolution loss with EIS, latency in the stabilization loop, and diminishing returns for rapid or highly unpredictable motion. Proper use depends on subject, lighting, and desired framing.