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MLV vs CinemaDNG: which RAW format should you use?
CinemaKit · Updated:
In CinemaKit, MLV and CinemaDNG carry the same kind of Bayer RAW frame data. The main practical difference is how a take is packaged: MLV keeps frames, audio and metadata in one file, while CinemaDNG stores a sequence of frame files. Choose for your next editing step rather than expecting the container alone to improve the image.
| Workflow question | MLV in CinemaKit | CinemaDNG in CinemaKit |
|---|---|---|
| Take structure | One file per take | A sequence of RAW frames |
| Audio | Kept in the container | Check the receiving workflow |
| Wi-Fi transfer | Download the take file | Download and extract the ZIP sequence |
| Best starting point | Simple phone-to-computer handling | An editor that supports image sequences |
When MLV is the simpler choice
MLV is convenient when you are moving large takes off a phone and want fewer files to track. Keep the take together, open it in CinemaKit or Studio, then export for your editor. It also works with dedicated MLV tools. Check your intended editor before assuming it can read an MLV file directly.
When a CinemaDNG sequence fits better
Use CinemaDNG when a downstream application supports the sequence workflow you need. Transfer the entire sequence and keep the frame order intact. CinemaKit packages downloaded sequences in a ZIP; extract it before using a tool that expects a folder of frames. Verify audio and frame rate separately in that tool.
A short compatibility test beats a long conversion
Record a short take in the mode you plan to use, transfer it and check playback, grading and export in your actual editing setup. Keep an original backup before converting. If you later use CKRAW to reduce storage, remember that it is a separate CinemaKit lossless format supported by CinemaKit and Studio.
Related pages
What is MLV (Magic Lantern Video)?
Understand the MLV RAW video container, how CinemaKit uses it, and how to open, transfer and export MLV footage.
What is CinemaDNG?
Learn what a CinemaDNG RAW image sequence contains, how it differs from MLV and how to manage CinemaDNG footage from CinemaKit.
Getting started with CinemaKit
Your first CinemaKit RAW workflow: choose a supported camera, record a test take, review, transfer and export on phone or in Studio.
CinemaKit Studio guide: open, grade and export
Follow the CinemaKit Studio RAW workflow: browser and GPU checks, local file opening, color correction, export and troubleshooting.