Canon EOS 5D Mark II Setup Guide

Video #9 Overview

• Focus on camera setup, specifically the Spanner Menu #2.
• Discusses various settings and functionalities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II.

Key Settings in Spanner Menu #2

1. LCD Brightness

• Manual Brightness: Recommended to leave in the middle.
  • Automatic brightness adjustment can distort exposure perception.
  • Quick previews via histogram can aid in assessing exposure.
  • In bright conditions, use a cover (hat, t-shirt) to view the screen clearly.

2. Date and Time

• Straightforward setting to adjust date and time.

3. Language

• Multiple language options available.
• Adjust based on user's language preference.

4. Video System

• Options between NTSC (USA) and PAL (Europe).
  • Frame rate options: NTSC (30fps), PAL (25fps or 24fps).
  • Limited options compared to newer DSLRs.

5. Sensor Cleaning

• Automatic Cleaning: Shakes dust off when camera is turned on/off.
• Manual cleaning recommended for thoroughness.
  • Possibility to self-clean or have it professionally done.
• Manual cleaning access provided by raising the mirror.

Live View and Movie Function Options

1. Live View Settings

• Enable settings for Stills and Movie, Stills only, or Live View Disabled.
  • Live View can be accidentally triggered, affecting shooting.

2. Display Settings

• Customize display info for movie/stills.
• Grid display options: Rule of Thirds, small grid, complex grid.

3. Silent Mode

• Options for Silent Mode 1, 2, or Disabled.
  • Reduces noise when shooting, especially useful for wildlife photography.

4. Metering Timer

• Set between 30 minutes to 4 seconds.
  • Useful in auto or semi-auto modes for exposure stability.

5. AF Mode

• Quick Mode, Live Mode, or Live Face Detection.
  • Slower focusing due to phase detection in Live View.

6. Movie Recording Size

• Options: 1920x1080 (30/24fps), 640x480.
  • Lacks 720p option.

7. Sound Recording

• Manual or Auto audio level settings available.
  • Firmware update introduced manual audio controls.
  • Ensure camera firmware is up to date.

Conclusion

• Spanner Menu #2 covers essential camera settings: brightness, date/time, language, video systems, sensor cleaning, live view, and more.
• Future videos will delve deeper into movie-related functions.
• Encouragement to like, share, and subscribe for more tutorials.