Some Canon EOS R5 Users Report IBIS Bug That Causes Blurry Photos

A Canon EOS R5 user has reported a replicable glitch that appears to be caused by using the camera’s in-body image stabilization which results in blurry photographs.

Canon Rumors reports on a negative experience one of its readers had with their Canon EOS R5 while shooting in a mode where in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is set to “always on.” The photographer explains that, as per the video example shown above, when they are shooting, the first picture produced in the sequence is significantly more blurry than any pictures thereafter. However, if the shutter continues to be half-pressed, while in single or continuous autofocus, photographs produced come out just fine.

In stark contrast to this photographer’s experience, Canon introduced its EOS R5 and R6 cameras as the “first Canon cameras with 5-axis in-body” IBIS, which can “deliver an industry-leading 8-stops of IS when the cameras are paired with certain lenses,” allowing for more successful shots and video clips when working handheld and removing the need for a tripod in many situations.

Born not just out of convenience, image stabilization also allows photographers to shoot creative images on the go. For example, photographing the movement of a subject, while keeping the rest of the scene still and sharp is something generally achieved by using a tripod. Canon, when discussing their EOS R5 and R6 IBIS, showcased images that were shot handheld, one at 1/3 second and one at 4 seconds, with both able to maintain a sharp background.

The photographer, who noticed this IBIS error first in R5’s firmware version 1.2.0 but also saw it continue in 1.3.0 and 1.3.1. version, adds that they visited the Canon repair center in Hong Kong and saw the same issue on the cameras displayed there, too. This is also why they chose not to leave their camera to be repaired, leaving disappointed in Canon’s lack of action to have this bug fixed, especially if it’s something replicable.

Before heading over to the Canon repair center, the photographer says the same issue was repeated with both Canon EF and RF lenses with no optical image stabilization. Allegedly, it’s not just some of Canon EOS R5 users who’ve experienced this bug, but also those who shoot with R6.

When reached for comment, Canon responded that its technical team is currently investigating the issue.