Magic Lantern have just launched a new firmware for the Canon DLSR cameras. Aimed at filmmakers who use cameras such as the Canon 5D and 500D the new firmware vastly improves the camera handling of video and audio. The new firmware lets users monitor audio levels on-screen, adjust gain manually  with no AGC, use zebra stripes for exposure control and  use custom cropmarks for 16:9, 2.35:1, 4:3 and any other format.

This update also included some cool features such as HDR Video, you will get two streams at half frame rate. For example, if you record 25p, you will get two 12.5fps streams. Interpolate them to 25fps and use your favorite HDR software to blend the frames. Magic lantern is not a hack it runs side by side with Canons own firmware, booting from the card.

The Firmware is currently available for: Canon 5D Mark II, 500D, 550D, 600D, 50D and 60D

Unfortunately they have not been able to port the firmware onto the Canon 7D, but they are working on it.

Click here to go to their website.

Introduction to Magic Lantern

 

Example of HDR video with Magic Lantern