More digital cameras are including image stabilizer technology, even when the lens is just a 3x or 4x optical zoom. As the zoom becomes longer, camera shake becomes more noticeable. So why add this technology to relatively short zoom lenses where camera shake is less of a problem?
An often overlooked benefit of this technology is improved low light photography. As the light level decreases, the lens opens up and the shutter speed slows in order to let in more light. That can cause blurring — not because you’re moving the camera too much, but because the longer exposure captures those movements over a longer period of time. With a stabilized image, the subject will shift around less, and you’ll be able to take better pictures in less-than-optimal lighting conditions.