4/16/2023 0 Comments Canon 35mm film camera ae 1![]() ![]() On the same dial is a setting labeled “PROGRAM,” and this is the feature that sets the AE-1 Program apart from its sibling model in the Canon A-series, the AE-1. ![]() Shots using this mode only turn out usable or even pleasing to the eye if a shutter release cable is used with the camera on a tripod. On this same dial is a setting for Bulb mode, for long exposures, in which the shutter stays open as long as the shutter release button is held down. The AE-1 Program’s shutter is capable of speeds from 1/1000th of a second to two seconds, and is controlled by a dial on the top right of the body. Lastly, the camera’s shutter speed determines the length of time that light will expose the film. Canon FD lenses include an “A” mode for use on camera bodies which can control lens aperture – the AE-1 Program is just such a camera. By changing the lens aperture (f stop numbers) we can determine how much light hits the film, and how much depth-of-field an image will show (James wrote about this as well, which can be seen here). Our second factor, aperture, is the amount of light that enters the lens to expose the film (or sensor on a digital). The ISO dial of the AE-1 Program can be positioned from 25 to 3200 ISO, a range that will cover the needs of nearly any film and photographer. This more advanced process is known as “push” or “pull processing,” and it allows us to shoot certain film in special circumstances where it might not be best-suited, such as low light environments. Over- or under-exposed film can then be developed differently from film shot at box speed to achieve different final image styles as desired by the photographer. It can also be set slightly higher or lower than the film’s “box speed” – this is called over- or under-exposing film. The ISO dial on the top left of the Canon’s body is used to calibrate the camera’s light meter to match the ISO of the loaded film. For example, Kodak Ektar 100 is a 100 ISO speed film whereas Cinestill 800 Tungsten is an 800 ISO speed film. Since the AE-1 Program is a film camera, the ISO value comes from the film stock. With digital cameras, it’s possible to adjust the sensitivity of the sensor at will. Briefly, the higher the ISO number, the more sensitive a film or sensor is to light. ISO number refers to the sensitivity of a film or image sensor ( James wrote about this in depth in another article). ![]() It’s by all measures an excellent camera for any level of shooter, yes, but it’s greatest strength may be in its ability to teach first-time users about the three basic settings that determine the exposure of any photograph: ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. To this older camera, the AE-1 Program adds a full automatic Program mode, an electronic light meter readout in the viewfinder, and a few smaller changes which have been explored in-depth in a previous article wherein James compared the two cameras at length. The Canon AE-1 Program is a 1981 revision of the original AE-1. I’ve been shooting it for over two years, and while it’s not a perfect camera, it is the best beginner-level 35mm SLR. Now when I’m asked about the best beginner camera by those willing to dabble in film photography, I immediately recommend the Canon AE-1 Program. It has taught me everything I currently know about analog photography and has truly shown me the meaning of slowing down when framing a shot. Being my first film camera, it holds quite some sentimental value, but it also allows me to say this camera is great for those ready to start with film. They keep all of their items clean, so, the camera was in mint condition. ![]() The camera, or as I like to call it, “ol’ reliable,” was given to me by a relative knowledgeable of my love for the craft, who had found it sitting in her parents’ attic after years of disuse. I also use it for any personal portrait or landscape projects that I may conjure in my head. I constantly have the Canon AE-1 Program strapped around my neck at family functions, gatherings with friends, or any event that I want to remember. The funny thing is that I rarely carry around digital cameras for personal photography anymore. Nine times out of ten, these questions are about digital photography. My mind starts racing because I feel obligated to think of an answer that would help them best. A recommendation around which camera to buy or what lens works best for portraits of their dog, the list goes on. I’m often asked questions by those who are ready and willing to jump into photography. I have the Canon AE-1 Program to thank for that. I’m still learning, of course, but these days I’m at least comfortable calling myself an experienced film photographer. At first, I had trouble falling in love with film. ![]()
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