Through dave hansen’s blog I found the CHDK project, which creates custom Canon camera firmware that adds a lot of features to existing cameras. While I’ve only had this loaded for a day, I’m really psyched with the results so far.

It immediately meant that I got RAW support, an OSD battery sensor showing % left, exposure settings, and this zebra mode thing that let’s you know when you’ve maxed out the CCD, and where specifically is the issue. The procedure to add it is pretty simple, and it’s breathed new life into my SD500, which has seen a lot of good days with me.

I get really excited when devices evolve and improve after you have them. My Logitech Harmony Remote, XBMC on my old xbox, and now my Canon camera all fall under that heading. This also guaruntees that I’ll only buy Canon cameras that support this in the future. This kind of freedom is hard to give up. 🙂