Stop misleading 'Image Stabilization' labels

[Admin]

Here at dpreview we're always pleased to see new technological innovations which lead to genuine improvements. However one thing which has become annoying is the increasing use of the label 'Image Stabilization' or 'Anti-Shake' to describe nothing more than a (noisy) high sensitivity mode. In our product database we only give a 'yes' flag to those cameras which implement image stabilization in the true sense, as either stabilization of a lens element or of the sensor itself (on a shifting platform) which allow you to take a blur free shot at slower shutter speeds. Some manufacturers prefix with 'Digital', however to the average consumer this isn't enough to correct what is a misleading and confusing description.

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[fingerz]

Is it me or has Dpreview started to get a bit soapboxy?

Not that it's a bad thing, it's a very knowledgeable site and I agree with most of the things said recently, just that I've noticed a definite shift over the last few months. They used to just review stuff, now they seem to be trying to exert an influence over the industry with messages like this.

It seemed to start with their disgruntled attitude to the release of the Nikon D80, where other sites were openly announcing the new model before Dpreview had been officially told and they posted a message saying they were fed up with the way manufacturers were handling this 'leaked' information.

 

[King_Boru]

Kind of on topic,... I was recently overhearing a sales person in a high street retailer explain the 'SR' system employed by Pentax. It made me want to sack him and I didnt even work there. It is quite terrible how misleading these poeple can be. All in the effort to sell something to somebidy who doesnt really know what they are talking about. Quite shamefull really.

If you are reading this, then I would suggest you do some research.

One day I am going to act like joe public not knowing what a DSLR is and IS/VR/SR just to hear what kind of boll*cks they come up with.

King.

 

[Marcel]

I used to do that in PC World for a laugh...shameful I know, as some of them are only trying to earn an honest crust...but still.....fair game if you ask me

 

[Joe T]

I agree re the misleading nature of some of these manufacturers claims.

TBH, someone has to make some effort on this and why shouldnt it be a well-respected website?

I agree, their point about leaked info was a bit toys-out-of-the-pram though.