Custom firmwares for Canon cameras

After some random browsing on photo-related sites I started to see references to a "new" phenomenon called Magic Lantern for Canon cameras. Apparently some clever hobbyist have reverse-engineered the firmware found in most major Canon models (5D, 550D, etc.) and built extensions on top of the standard functionality. The following is list of new stuff relevant to both shooting video and photos:

• Bit rate control (QScale parameter) for the H.264 encoder


• Zebra stripes for overexposed / underexposed areas


• Spotmeter, histogram


• Cropmarks (16:9, Cinemascope, Fisheye)


• Intervalometer (classic or HDR)


• Trap Focus: camera takes a picture when something comes in focus


• Remote release with either the LCD face sensor or audio trigger


• Rack focus


• Stack focus (Live View only)


• Lens data computation


• Onscreen audio meters


• Manual audio gain, selectable input source, disable AGC and digital filters


• Display time remaining during video recording


• Debug functions (display CMOS temperature, screenshot, logging)


• Fine tuning for ISO and shutter speeds; also ISO 25600


• Kelvin white balance


• Clean LiveView display without any overlays (selectable)


• On-demand auto tuning for ISO, shutter & kelvin white balance


• Quick access to some useful settings like HTP, ALO and contrast

Below a visual example of a really neat feature, focus assist:

Introduction video to Magic Lantern (a bit long)
Vimeo group for Magic Lantern here

This project is apparently built on the Canon Hack Development Kit where they have added some really interesting capabilities to the Point-and-Shoot range. I have an old Ixus 750 that I'm thinking of upgrading - shooting RAW-files seems really neat :) Primary added features:

• Professional control - RAW files, bracketing, full manual control over exposure, Zebra-Mode, Live histogram, Grids, etc.


• Motion detection - Trigger exposure in response to motion, fast enough to catch lightning.


• USB remote - Simple DIY remote allows you to control your camera remotely.


• Scripting - Control CHDK and camera features using ubasic and Lua scripts. Enables time lapse, motion detection, advanced bracketing, and much more.