Why I Installed Magic Lantern V2.3 on my Canon 5d Mk II

[neltron3030]

So many Canon DSLR users have probably heard of the new Magic Lantern V2.3. ML was originally designed for video users looking for more advanced settings and control on their Canon 5D Mk II cameras. However with the new release, I couldn't help but test it out for the advancements they've made for shooting stills. Here's why I upgraded.

Built-in Intervalometer - you can set up the camera to take a set amount of shots at a certain interval to create timelapses.

Timelapse Ramping - it will automatically ramp the settings so that there is a smooth transition in sunset to night timelapses (works better than shooting in AV mode).

Bulb Timer - you don't need a shutter release for exposures over 30 seconds. You can set timers in bulb mode!

Playback Zoom - one of the most useful functions of the 5d mk iii and several Nikon models is the ability to to zoom in at 100% upon review of the image. This saves you from hitting the + button several times to check optimal focusing (a must on the 5d mk ii)

Drawbacks:
- Installation occurs on the memory card so you need to load all your memory cards with ML
- when the DSLR sleeps during non-use, it takes a couple seconds to boot up again, not ideal for street photography
- there is no guarantee that it won't harm your DSLR, but I haven't heard of anyone having major issues with it

[RCGA]

My primary reason - 9 stop brackets (and I don't even shoot HDR that often).

[jimmy-j]

what a fluke this thread showed up. i literally just installed ML2.3 on my 5d2 last night. i love it so far. for $10 you really can't go wrong if you have one of the supported cameras!

[Kaitlyn]

I wish more of this stuff was included stock. Sure some of this is accomplished through accessories but I don't want to travel with a bunch of devices to use my camera!

Timelapse Ramping - it will automatically ramp the settings so that there is a smooth transition in sunset to night timelapses (works better than shooting in AV mode).

I'm curious, why do you say this is better than AV mode? Does it ramp on its own?

Edit: Also, No 7D no care

[magical]

Thanks for this post!!! I'm going to upgrade for free in 5 days!!! If you read it says this:

Three weeks later (on August 13), Magic Lantern 2.3 will become a free download for everyone else.

[neltron3030]

I'm curious, why do you say this is better than AV mode? Does it ramp on its own?

There is a setting that ramps the shutter speed automatically for day-to-night sequences. I tested it out last night and it looks good, though I am not a time lapse pro to know the difference.

[stasbasko]

one good reason is my wheel stoped working a while ago. the only way to set fstops now is magic lantern

[Dwight10]

I am interested to install Magic Lantern.

[magical]

one good reason is my wheel stoped working a while ago. the only way to set fstops now is magic lantern

that must still be a pain in the ***** , especially when using it in aperture priority mode! I'd have to get that fixed if it was me

[RCGA]

Anyone know if it will bracket exposures longer than 30 seconds?

[sandy_beach]

Anyone know if it will bracket exposures longer than 30 seconds?

It will in bulb.

[jbnc_]

ahhh I got really excited to install this but after downloading I realized that I need a CF card reader :"(.

Can somebody comment on the focus peaking on the 5dmkii with this? I'm most curious about this feature as it would be amazing with MF lenses if it's anything like the peaking on the NEX cams

[neltron3030]

ahhh I got really excited to install this but after downloading I realized that I need a CF card reader :"(.

Can somebody comment on the focus peaking on the 5dmkii with this? I'm most curious about this feature as it would be amazing with MF lenses if it's anything like the peaking on the NEX cams

It works quite accurately. You can set certain settings like threshold, but I haven't had time to play with it. At default settings it seems fine!

[jbnc_]

Just installed it but do any of you guys know what that graph is on the bottom right hand?? http://www.dslrnewsshooter.com/wp-co...012/07/ML2.jpg I've seen many people ask the question on forums but I haven't found a good explanation or how to remove it. thanks

EDIT: so i figured out i can remove it by another screen layout but still dont know what it does

[jimmy-j]

histogram and waveform. the middle one (waveform) for sound.


RTFM http://wiki.magiclantern.fm/userguide