SUMMARY
Image stabilization (IS, VR, OSS) and fast shutter speeds both aim to reduce blur in photos, but they address different causes. Image stabilization compensates for involuntary hand movements during exposure, allowing for slower shutter speeds in low light when subjects are stationary. Fast shutter speeds, conversely, freeze the motion of moving subjects by shortening the exposure time, effectively eliminating motion blur. Misunderstanding which tool to use for which type of blur is a common beginner mistake, leading to suboptimal results.
TAKEAWAYS
Image stabilization counteracts camera shake from hand movements.
Fast shutter speeds freeze motion of subjects within the frame.
Stabilization is for stationary subjects in low light.
Fast shutter speeds are for moving subjects, regardless of light.