How can I instantly tell if Canon 'IS' is working?

wrote in :

About to buy a s/h Canon EF IS lens. How can I tell if the IS is working
correctly? I know it's meant to make a bit of a noise after the shot is
taken (at least my 28-135 does), but this doesn't mean it's working
correctly.

I can't think of a way except taking some slow-shutter pix, with it on
and off, and compare on the computer screen. Is there a quicker way?

Any help appreciated.

It's actually visible in the viewfinder. When it's on, sudden panning
motions will cause a slight lag in the viewfinder image, more noticeable
when at the longer focal lengths.


- Al.

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In article , wrote:
About to buy a s/h Canon EF IS lens. How can I tell if the IS is working
correctly? I know it's meant to make a bit of a noise after the shot is
taken (at least my 28-135 does), but this doesn't mean it's working
correctly.

Look through the viewfinder with the IS turned on and the shutter button
half pressed. Now start to pan around, and stop abruptly. You should notice
the viewfinder image "lags" slightly, stopping about half a second after you
have.

In message , Chris Brown
writes
In article , wrote:
About to buy a s/h Canon EF IS lens. How can I tell if the IS is working
correctly? I know it's meant to make a bit of a noise after the shot is
taken (at least my 28-135 does), but this doesn't mean it's working
correctly.

Look through the viewfinder with the IS turned on and the shutter button
half pressed. Now start to pan around, and stop abruptly. You should notice
the viewfinder image "lags" slightly, stopping about half a second after you
have.

Many thanks for the tips. I'll try it with my 28-135, so that I know
what to expect!
--
Alan

About to buy a s/h Canon EF IS lens. How can I tell if the IS is working
correctly? I know it's meant to make a bit of a noise after the shot is
taken (at least my 28-135 does), but this doesn't mean it's working
correctly.

You can see it working. Zoom out to 135, and try to keep the small
focus box in the viewfinder centered on a spot far away. You won't be
able to do it. Then push the shutter half-way down to engage the IS.
You will be able to do it, if the IS is working.

-Joel

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