Lecture Notes: Canon EOS 5D Mark II - Custom Function Menu 2

Introduction

• Video number 11, part 2 for Canon EOS 5D Mark II
• Focus on Custom Function Menu 2 regarding image settings

Custom Function Menu 2 Overview

• Menu contains settings for:
  • Long exposure noise reduction
  • High ISO speed noise reduction
  • Highlight tone priority
  • Auto lighting optimizer

Long Exposure Noise Reduction

• Options: Off, On, Auto
• Purpose: Reduces noise from long exposures due to sensor heating
• Recommendation:
  • Leave off if shooting RAW (noise reduction after)
  • Consider for JPEG

High ISO Speed Noise Reduction

• Options: Strong, Low, Standard
• Purpose: Reduces noise from high ISO settings (800-6400)
• Application:
  • Not applicable to RAW unless using Canon software
  • Best evaluated by shooting test frames (especially in JPEG)
• Performance:
  • ISO 800: clean
  • ISO 1600: usable
  • ISO 3200+: reaches limits
  • ISO 6400: very noisy

Highlight Tone Priority

• Purpose: Prioritizes highlights in JPEG images
• Functionality:
  • Set camera to ISO 200
  • Not useful for those shooting RAW
  • Provides detail in bright areas like skies, clouds, white dresses

Auto Lighting Optimizer

• Purpose: Adjusts files for shadow and highlight retention
• Application:
  • Useful in high contrast situations
  • Only functional with Canon software in RAW or JPEG
  • Disabled on personal camera to handle exposure manually

Recommendations

• Experiment with settings if shooting JPEG
• Practical experience is more beneficial than examples
• Participation in photography practice encouraged for better understanding

Conclusion

• Limited settings, focus on personal experimentation
• Encouragement to like, share, and subscribe for more content
• Future video exploration suggested for detailed examples

Note: Always refer to your camera's manual and perform your own tests to understand how these settings affect your photography. Practical hands-on experience is invaluable.