Magic Lantern

<p>Hi everyone,<br>

I have been reading on the internet about Magic Lantern for the Canon EOS Cameras. <br>

is it worthwhile to try it out? Is it better than the existing Canon on board software? <br>

I enjoy taking HDR pictures and read the Magic Lantern software allows for more than 3 bracketing options, is it wortwhile trying it out?<br>

Some wise advice would be appreciated.<br>

Regards<br>

Spencer Van Der Walt</p>

<p> </p>

<p>It is not a supported software by Canon. Using it is not without risk, and doing so will invalidate your warranty. Plenty people use it with no problems but there are no guarantees.</p>

<p>Thank you John for your prompt reply,<br>

Do you know if this software gives one features that are worthwhile taking the chance to jettison the "official" software? I especially like the idea of having more than 3 bracketing options when taking HDR photos.</p>

<p>AFAIK its been developed primarily for film makers wishing to have better control over the various settings that make for better video. Any other advantages for stills shooters are possibly incidental. Its not the sort of thing you'd install on a whim - if you need the controls it offers then go for it, but if all you want to do is make better hdr's then investing in some decent software like photomatix might be safer. I am no expert by the way, so if anyone else knows more please chime in!</p>

<p>Great, thanks for advice!</p>

<p>My understanding is that if you don't want it you just reload the Canon firmware? Is that right?<br>

and if it is what is the risk?</p>

<p>I just had a look at the Magic Lantern website. It gives the impression that the software loads on top of the Canon firmware, presumably somewhat like the SHDK software for the Canon P&S. In that case it is a matter of preparing a CF card, when you use the card the ML software is present, when using a regular card you get the Canon firmware.</p>

<p>Magic Lantern is very much worth using especially for HDRI photography and to provide other features like focus peaking. Having extended exposure bracketing is awesome for HDRI. This improves the result of HDR software as the camera has a reduced noise signature. I use ML with my 50D and it's like getting a new camera.</p>

<p> </p>

<p>[[and doing so will invalidate your warranty]]</p>

<p>While this is an old thread, it should be noted that Canon has officially stated that simply using it will not invalidate your warranty. </p>

<p>http://petapixel.com/2013/05/27/will-custom-firmware-void-my-warranty-canon-nikon-and-panasonic-respond/</p>