Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) is a technology used in cameras and smartphones to reduce the blurring effect caused by the movement of the camera during the capture of images or videos. It works by physically stabilizing the camera’s lens or sensor, counteracting the minor movements that can occur when holding a camera by hand, especially in low-light conditions or when using long exposure times.

How Optical Image Stabilisation Works

  1. Mechanical Adjustment: In an OIS system, gyroscopic sensors detect the movement of the camera. When the sensors detect movement, they relay this information to an actuator mechanism that moves the lens or the image sensor in the opposite direction. This movement compensates for the camera shake, keeping the image stable.
  2. Lens-based vs. Sensor-based OIS: There are two primary types of OIS systems:
    • Lens-based OIS: In this type, the lens elements move to counteract the camera shake. This system is commonly found in DSLR cameras and high-end smartphone cameras.
    • Sensor-based OIS: Here, the image sensor itself is adjusted to stabilize the image. This system is more compact and is often found in mirrorless cameras and some smartphones.
  3. Advantages of OIS: The primary advantage of OIS is that it enables sharper images and smoother videos. It is particularly beneficial in low-light situations, where longer exposure times are required, as it helps to prevent blurring. For video recording, OIS reduces the jittery effect that can occur with handheld shooting, resulting in smoother footage.

Applications and Benefits

  1. Photography: OIS is crucial in photography, especially in conditions where a tripod isn’t available or practical. It allows photographers to use slower shutter speeds without increasing the ISO sensitivity, thereby maintaining image quality and minimizing noise.
  2. Videography: In video recording, OIS helps in producing steady footage, even when the camera is handheld. This is particularly useful for professional videographers and vloggers who require high-quality, stable video without the need for external stabilisation tools.
  3. Smartphones and Consumer Cameras: In smartphones, OIS is often combined with digital image stabilisation (DIS) or electronic image stabilisation (EIS) to provide even more stability. This combination is particularly effective in devices with multiple cameras, where each camera can have its OIS system.
  4. Low-Light Performance: One of the significant benefits of OIS is its impact on low-light photography. By allowing for longer exposure times without the need for higher ISO settings, OIS helps in capturing more light and details in dark environments, leading to brighter and clearer images.

Limitations and Considerations

  1. Cost and Complexity: Implementing OIS adds to the cost and complexity of the camera design, making it more prevalent in mid-to-high-end devices. This is why entry-level smartphones and cameras may not always include OIS.
  2. Effectiveness in Severe Shakes: While OIS is effective for minor shakes and movements, it may not fully compensate for more significant movements or very shaky conditions. For extreme situations, additional stabilisation methods, like tripods or gimbals, may still be necessary.
  3. Impact on Size and Weight: The mechanical components required for OIS can increase the size and weight of the camera module, which can be a drawback for manufacturers aiming to design ultra-slim devices.

Technological Developments and Future Trends

Recent advancements in OIS technology include gimbal-like stabilisation systems and in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), where the camera body itself compensates for movement. These technologies are becoming more common in high-end smartphones and cameras, offering even greater stability.

As the demand for high-quality mobile photography and videography grows, OIS technology continues to evolve, offering improved performance and integration with other imaging technologies like AI-enhanced stabilisation. This trend points towards even more advanced stabilisation features in future devices, potentially making high-quality image capture accessible to a broader audience.