ilia3101/MLV-App

What it solves

MLV App is a free and open-source tool for working with MLV video files, which are raw video files recorded by Canon cameras running the Magic Lantern firmware. It solves the problem of importing, viewing, processing, and exporting these large raw files, offering a workflow similar to Lightroom but tailored for video. It is cross-platform and does not require expensive commercial software.

How it works

MLV App imports MLV files and also supports spanned files, lossless compression, and many bit depths. It demosaics the raw sensor data using several algorithms, such as simple, AHD, AMaZE, and others provided by librtprocess. It then lets you adjust exposure, contrast, white balance, curves, sharpening, and more. You can apply RAW corrections like fixing focus and bad pixels, chroma smoothing, and vertical stripes. The app includes analysis tools like histograms, waveform monitors, and vectorscopes. It supports video playback, audio, and session management. For export, it uses ffmpeg to output many codecs, including ProRes, H.264/H.265, DNxHD, CineForm, and Cinema DNG sequences. You can trim clips, override frame rates, and set aspect ratios. The app is built with Qt and the source is organized into src/mlv for MLV handling and src/processing for image processing.

Who it's for

This tool is for filmmakers, videographers, and hobbyists who use Magic Lantern to shoot raw video on Canon DSLRs. It is also useful for anyone who needs to edit, color correct, and export MLV files without relying on proprietary software. Due to its advanced processing options, it suits both beginners and experienced users, though it requires some familiarity with raw video concepts.

Highlights

• Imports MLV and spanned MLV files (.m00, .m01, ...)
• Supports lossless MLV and bit depths up to 14-bit
• Offers many demosaic algorithms, including highly optimized options like LMMSE, DCB, RCD, and IGV
• Comprehensive processing parameters: exposure, contrast, white balance, clarity, vibrance, highlight/shadow adjustment, curves, sharpen, toning, and more
• Neural-network-based film emulation filters
• RAW corrections: focus pixel fixing, bad pixel removal, chroma smoothing, pattern noise reduction, vertical stripe correction, and black/white level adjustment
• Darkframe subtraction and dual ISO support
• Analysis tools: histogram, waveform, RGB parade, vectorscope
• Session management with receipts for batch processing
• Video playback with real-time or drop-frame modes
• Export to a wide range of codecs via ffmpeg, including ProRes, H.264, H.265, DNxHD, CineForm, and Cinema DNG
• 1D/3D LUT (.cube) support
• Batch export and trimming
• FCPXML import and selection assistants for NLE workflows