A method is provided for image stabilization in an optical instrument (1, 101) with observation optics (3) that have an optical axis (OA) and at least one optical element with adjustable refractive power (7, 7A, 7B, 177), an unintended movement taking place between the observation optics (3) and an observation object (4) along the optical axis (OA). The unintended movement along the optical axis (OA) is determined and on the basis of the movement determined, at least one control variable for the adjustable optical element (7, 7A, 7B, 177) is determined, which represents the refractive power of the optical element with adjustable refractive power (7, 7A, 7B, 177) necessary for optical compensation for the movement along the optical axis (OA). An adjustment of the optical element with adjustable refractive power (7, 7A, 7B, 177) is carried out on the basis of the control variable.