Magic Lantern

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Steve T

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Apart from introducing a video capability to a dslr, which doesn't interest me, what are the other benefits of adding Magic lantern to a 50d. Has anyone installed it and regretted it?
 
I have ML on my 60D and can't wait for a stable version for the 5D3.

ML has many great features for the stills photographer, here are my favourites in no particular order:
  • mirror lockup on self timer only
  • manual focus tools like focus peeping
  • Custom focus patterns
  • Focus trapping, set a manual focus point and ML will take a shot when something comes into focus.
  • Focus stacking
  • Bulb timer
  • Motion detect, both frame comparison and exposure change (exposure change's great for lightning)
  • Zebra stripes exposure warnings in live view, can highlight blown highlights and blocked shadows whilst composing the shot.
  • auto HDR bracketing - good for "proper" HDR, not the over cooked stuff.
  • focus distance in live view (with compatible lens) with near DOF and far DOF.
ML turns the 60D from good to great, I have no idea why canon don't catch on to this. The camera's been totally reliable with no problems whatsoever. The only thing I've noticed is that it's a fraction of a second slower waking up.

highly recommended

Darren
 
Does it use the battery quicker?
I tried the (similar idea) CHDK in a powershot, but apart from overly complex menus and sub-menus for the things I wanted, the main problem was near halved battery life.
 
I've not noticed the battery draining quicker, although ML does warn that this may be the case.

perhaps it's more of an issue when recording video?
 
I must admit on my 7D the focal distances were good in theory but never seemed to be accurate.
 
You just turn it on, frame your shot, stand very still(or use a tripod) and take a correcttly exposed shot. Ml then takes as many shots at differing exposures as is needed to cover the full dynamic range of the scene. Just combine the exposures in your favorite hdr programe.
 
A_S said:
I must admit on my 7D the focal distances were good in theory but never seemed to be accurate.
Click to expand...

I think it's as much down to the lens as the camera, my 24-105 is more accurate than my 17-55.
 
I like ML on my 5dm2 and will install it on my 5dm3 when I buy one.

One thing to note, when you open the memory compartment door wait until the red light goes on and off before taking out the card. Else the camera will lock up without you realising and drain the battery. If you think you've done this, simply remove and reinsert the battery to reset. All the while the Camera will appear off.
 
D4rr3n said:
You just turn it on, frame your shot, stand very still(or use a tripod) and take a correcttly exposed shot. Ml then takes as many shots at differing exposures as is needed to cover the full dynamic range of the scene. Just combine the exposures in your favorite hdr programe.
Click to expand...

I guess I was more thinking why magic lantern is better for "proper HDR" and not the "over cooked stuff". :-)
 
D4rr3n said:
The only thing I've noticed is that it's a fraction of a second slower waking up.

Darren
Click to expand...

Fraction of a second? yeah, 1/1. it goes from turning on instantly to taking a second to turn on, it's not a big deal, but certainly prevents you being able to turn on the camera and take the shot instantly.

Though for what you get, it's a minuscule price to pay, and I know very few others who ever need such a fast boot time.
 
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