As we enter 2025, Magic Lantern is setting ambitious goals to enhance cinematic features on the Canon platform.
This innovative hacked firmware empowers users of older Canon cameras to access features like Raw Video and higher resolution recording, making it appealing for content creators who haven’t upgraded to newer models.
It appears 2025 will continue this trend.
Image Credit – Magic Lantern
What is Magic Lantern?
Magic Lantern is a free software add-on that operates from the SD/CF card, adding numerous features to Canon EOS cameras that Canon did not include in the original firmware.
Tools like on-screen overlays, higher-resolution image capture, and headphone monitoring allow content creators to capture footage with older cameras confidently.
While largely non-destructive, it is important to note that Magic Lantern is not supported by Canon and is highly experimental.
Using it may void any existing warranty, but many find the potential improvements to legacy Canon cameras worth the risk.
Before discussing the future of Magic Lantern in 2025, we should reflect on what previously the ML team has brought to Canon shooters.
The standout feature was Raw Video, which, although still in experimental stages, functions fairly well on older DSLRs such as the Canon 6D Mk. II and 7D Mk. II, as well as on the mirrorless Canon R.
Additionally, volunteer developers have worked diligently to extend video capture times beyond the 29-minute and 59-second limitation.
They have also streamlined the baked-in and nightly builds, enhancing camera management and reliability.
Image Credit – Magic Lantern
Plans for 2025
Looking forward to 2025, the team plans to release the first version of Magic Lantern for any camera beyond the DIGIC 5 platform.
This official build will include comprehensive documentation and be accessible to anyone interested in joining the volunteer development team.
The team aims to continue refining Raw Video on the previously mentioned platforms to ensure full usability.
Additionally, they plan to merge several highly requested third-party features, including enhanced raw video Live View preview, known as “crop mode,” and SD speed tuning.
Magic Lantern new team has also regained access to the official ML YouTube channel and Vimeo account after doing nearly two years of research and establishing contact with former developers. The latter were more than happy to help with the transition.
A Word of Warning
While Magic Lantern will not replace your original firmware, it’s essential to understand that using it may void any remaining warranty on your camera.
Why would anyone take such a risk? Because it can breathe new life into older cameras that may be gathering dust, making them more viable as backup “B” cameras.
Plus, it offers a great opportunity to learn more about your equipment.
Download and Installation
Users can download both official and nightly builds for free from the official Magic Lantern website. The nightly builds offer more advanced, experimental features for those interested, but tend to be less reliable.
To install Magic Lantern, you will need an SD or CF card, depending on your camera model. The firmware runs from this media card, bypassing the existing camera firmware.
Be sure to enable the BootDisk flag during the update process, and pay careful attention to the installation instructions.
There is also a procedure for uninstallation if you wish to restore your camera to its original configuration.
The team encourages users to report any issues that arise to help identify potential fixes. And if users would like to donate cameras or even join the team, they welcome the help.
[source: Magic Lantern Forum]
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