Canon AE-1 Film Camera User Manual

 English Edition
INSTRUCTIONS
PICTORIAL OUTLINE FOR USING THE CAMERA
1 Set the aperture ring of the lens to
the “A” mark. 2 Load the battery.
Look into the viewfinder.
Compose the picture and focus.
Set the ASA film speed. 5
Select a shutter speed.
Qut of Focus In Focus
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Distance Scale (in feet and meters) Focusing Ring
Aperture Ring
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AT es ; gol. FE Distance Index
Bayonet Ring
Exposure Preview Switch Depth-of-Field Scale
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-— EE Lock Pin
Battery Chamber Cover
Finger Grip
“A" Mark
AD
La
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Stopped-Down Lever
Backlight
Control Switch
Film Speed Set Ring
a ASA Film Speed
Scale
= Shutter Speed Dial
Film Advance Lever
ALA
Shutter Release Button
Film Rewind k a
HR Sawing Comm) Contact Automatic Electronic Self-Timer Lever
Film Plane Indicator Flash Contacts {Shutter Release Lock)
Battery Check Button Accessory Shoe
While reading the instruction booklet, unfold this flap and the flap on the back cover to facilitate your
understanding of the instructions.
Photography with the Canon Speedlite
155A
3 1. Load the batteries.
Load the film. 2. Set the ASA film speed.
3. Mount the Speedlite 155A on the AE-1
4. Turn the main switch on.
5. Set the AUTO/MANU. switch.
6. Focus and press the shutter button.
Advance film: Check exposure.
Press the shutter button.
AUTO MANU. AUTO
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Photography with the Canon Power
Winder A
1.
2.
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Remove the Battery Pack A.
Load the batteries into the Battery Pack A,
Attach the Battery Pack A to the Power
Winder A.
Take off the winder coupler cover.
Attach the Power Winder A to the AE-1.
Turn the main switch on.
Focus and press the shutter button.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFICATIONS ............
PRELIMINARY PREPARATION
Mounting the Lens and Setting the
Aperture Ring to the “A” Mark ...
Loading the Battery and
Battery Check .............
Loading the Film and Setting
the ASA
OPERATION FOR
GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHY ....
Selecting the Shutter Speed
Focusing and Dioptric
Adjustment Lenses
DETAILED OPERATION OF
NES RES e a
Viewfinder Information and
Meter Sensitivity Pattern .......
AE Coupling Range and
Overexposure Warning Mark . . . . .
Underexposure and
Coupling Range Warning LED Lamp
Holding the Camera . .........
Rewinding the Film ..........
Double-Check Before Shooting . . .
Stopped-Down Metering Index Mark
and Manual Aperture Control
“M” Signal .... e. marea, 40
Effects of Changing the Shutter
Speed and the Aperture ........ 41-42
Depth-of-Field .............. 43-44
Using the Self-Timer .............. 45
Shooting Against the Light and
Long Exposures ............. 47-48
Stopped-Down Metering . ......... 49
Lock for Manual Aperture Control . . 50-51
Lenses . . . . . ...... ....... 53-56
ACCESSORIES, CARE OF THE CAMERA,
MAINTENANCE, AND MISCELLANEA 57
Canon Speedlite 166A . . . ........ 59
Flash Photography with the AE-1
Canon Power Winder A . .......... 61
Canon Data Back A
and Bellows FL . .............. 63
Other Accessories ............ 64-65
Characteristics . ............... 66-69
Care and Storage of the Camera .... 71-72
Using the Camera in
Very Cold Conditions ............. 73
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SPECIFICATIONS
Type: 35mm SLR (Single-Lens-Reflex)
camera with electronically controlled AE
(Automatic Exposure) and focal plane
shutter.
Picture Size: 24 x 36mm
Interchangeable Lenses: Canon FD series
with full aperture metering and AE coupling.
Canon FL series with stopped-down
metering.
Standard Lenses: Canon FD 55mm f/1.2
S.S.C.
Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C.
Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 S.C.
Lens Mount: Canon Breech-Lock mount.
Canon FD, FL and R lenses can be used.
Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism.
Field of View: 93.5% vertical and 96%
horizontal coverage of the actual picture
area.
Magnification: 1:0.86 at infinity with a
standard 50mm lens.
Viewfinder Information: Split-image/micro-
prism rangefinder, aperture scale with
meter needle and stopped-down metering
index mark which also serves as battery
charge level check mark. Besides, there are
two red zones at the top of the aperture
scale to warn of overexposure.
Below the aperture scale, a red warning
LED lamp blinks to indicate under-
exposure. This lamp also indicates that the
selected shutter speed is outside the AE
coupling range with respect to the ASA
of the film being used.
Above the aperture scale, a manual
aperture control “M” signal (red LED)
blinks as a warning that the aperture
ring is not set at the “A” mark for AE
photography.
Viewfinder Attachments: Angle Finder A2
and B, Magnifier S, Dioptric Adjustment
Lens (10 kinds), and Eyecup S.
Mirror: Instant-return, large reflector mirror
with shock absorbing mechanism.
AE Mechanism: Shutter priority, electro-
nically controlled AE metering system
incorporating two ICs and one LSI equi-
pped with I? L (Integrated Injection Logic)
Light Metering System: TTL (Through-
The-Lens) Central Emphasis Metering
method employing a Silicon Photocell as
photosensitive element.
Exposure Meter Coupling Range: With ASA
100 film, EV1 (f/1.4 at one second) to
EV18 (f/16 at 1/1000 second).
Film Speed Range: ASA 25 to ASA 3200.
Exposure Correction: By pressing the back-
light controi switch, exposure is corrcted
by the automatic opening of the dia-
phragm 1.5 stops more on the aperture
scale than the actual setting,
Exposure Preview: The meter needle will
indicate in the viewfinder when the
shutter release button is depressed half-
way or the exposure preview switch is
depressed.
Shutter: Cloth focal plane shutter with four
spindles. Shock and noise damping
mechanisms are incorporated. All shutter
speeds are electronically controlled.
Shutter Speeds: 1/1000, 1/500, 1/250,
1/125, 1/60, 1/30, 1/15, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1,
2 (seconds) and B. X synchronization is
at 1/60 seconds.
Shutter Speed Dial: The shutter speed dial is
on the same axis as the film advance
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lever. The number 2 for two seconds is
marked in orange; other numbers as well
as X synchronization are in white,
There is a shutter dial guard to prevent
unintentional movement of the dial.
The ASA dial is located underneath
the shutter speed dial.
Shutter Release Button: It is a large, button
type magnetic release switch. Depressing
the shutter release button halfway
switches on the light metering circuit,
while full depression releases the shutter.
The shutter release button has a locking
device, besides a socket for the cable
release in the center.
Self-Timer: Electronically controlled self-
timer. After the self-timer lever is pushed
forward, the self-timer is activated by the
shutter release button. The self-timer
releases the shutter after a time lag of 10
seconds. A self-timer lamp (red LED)
blinks on and off to indicate when the
self-timer is in operation.
Stopping-Down the Lens: Stopping-down the
lens can be performed by pushing the
stopped-down lever after setting the
aperture ring.
Power Source: One 6V silver oxide battery
Eveready No.544, UCAR No.544 JIS
4G13, or Mallory PX28) or alkaline man-
ganese battery (Eveready No.537, UCAR
No.537, or Mallory 7K13). The battery
lasts approximately one year under
normal use.
Battery Check: Battery power level can be
checked by the meter needle in the
viewfinder when the battery check
button is pressed.
Flash Synchronization: X synchronization is
at 1/60 second.
M synchronization is at 1/30 second and
below.
Flash Terminal: The accessory shoe has a
direct flash contact and automatic flash
control contacts. On the front of the
camera body is the flash terminal, JIS-B
type for flash units with a cord. It has a
built-in protective rim to prevent elec-
trical shock.
Automatic Flash: With the exclusive Canon
Speedlite 155A, the shutter speed and
aperture are automatically set. The
amount of light is automatically con-
trolled for correct flash exposure.
Back Cover: The camera’s back cover has a
memo holder for your convenience. The
cover can be removed for attaching the
Canon Data Back A. To open, pull the
rewind crank up.
Film Loading: Easy film loading with multi-
slot take-up spool.
Film Advance Lever: Single stroke with 120°
throw and 30° stand-off. The film can be
wound with several short strokes. The
Canon Power Winder A also can be
mounted for automatic winding of the
film.
Frame Counter: Additive type. Auto-
matically resets when the back cover is
opened. While rewinding film, it counts
back the frame numbers.
Film Rewinding: Performed by pressing
the rewind button on the bottom and by
using the rewind crank on the top. The
rewind button is automatically reset
when the film is advanced with the film
advance lever.
Safety Devices:
® The shutter does not drain battery
power when not released.
® The film cannot be wound while the
shutter is in operation.
Size: 141 x 87 x 47.5mm (5-9/16" x 3-7/16"
x 1-7/8") body only.
Weight: 590g (20-13/16 ozs.) body only.
790g (27-7/80zs.) with the 50mm
f/1.8 S.C. lens.
895g (31-9/16 ozs.) with the 50mm
f/1.45.5.C. lens.
Subject to change without notice.
PRELIMINARY PREPARATION
Attaching the Neckstrap
Attach the Canon AE-1's neckstrap by
threading it through the rings and adjusting it
to the desired length as indicated in the
photos. A case for a spare battery can be
attached to the neckstrap.
Handling the Lens Cap
The lens cap can be removed from the
front of the lens after pressing in the tabs on
both sides of the cap. The rear dust cover can
be removed by turning the bayonet ring in the
direction of the arrow. To attach the dust
cover, align its slot with the positioning pin
below the red dot of the bayonet ring, and
press it in. When the dust cover is removed,
the bayonet ring is locked.
For an explanation of how the lens
mechanisms function, see page 52.
Mounting the Lens
Remove the body cap and mount the lens
onto the camera. The lens is mounted by
aligning the red dot of the body with the red
dot of the bayonet ring, and then turning the
bayonet ring clockwise, pressing gently until it
locks into position. Reverse the procedure to
dismount the lens.
2 Setting the Aperture Ring to the
“A” Mark
The AE-1 delivers perfect AE photo-
graphy when the aperture ring is set for
automatic exposure. The “A” mark on the
aperture ring should be set to the EE position,
Hold in the EE lock pin while turning the
aperture ring to the “A” mark. This can be
done either before or after the lens is
mounted on the camera.
Loading the Battery
This camera will not function without
battery power. À 6V silver oxide battery is
loaded into the battery chamber after opening
the battery chamber cover. It can be opened
more easily by using the viewfinder cover that
15 inserted into the accessory shoe.
Be careful to load the battery correctly
with the “+” side up as indicated in the
diagram. Load the battery by inserting first
the “—” contact in the battery chamber.
The battery can be unloaded in a similar way
by pulling it out from the top. The battery
can be loaded and untoaded more easily
when the lens is dismounted. The battery
should last for approximately one year under
normal use. Refer to page 73 about the
details of the battery when the camera is used
in extremely cold conditions.
4 Checking the Battery
Since the AE-1 is an electronically con-
trolled camera, the shutter will not function
without sufficient battery power.
The battery requires checking in the
following circumstances:
1. When a new battery is loaded.
2. When the shutter does not function.
3. When long exposures are frequently
performed.
4. When the camera is used very frequently.
5. When the camera is used after it has been
stored for a long period.
6. When the camera is used in extremely
cold conditions.
Alkaline pean Silver Oxide Battery
Battery
Usable Batteries |
Silver Oxide Eveready (UCAR)No.544
Battery (6V) JIS 4613, Mallory ox 28)
Alkaline Manganese | Eveready (UCAR) No, 537
| Battery (6V) Mallory 7K13
15
Meter Needle
How to Check the Battery
The charge level of the battery is checked
by pressing the battery check button on the
top of the camera Carefully watch the meter
needle in the viewfinder.
Press the battery check button and if the
meter needle in the viewfinder rests below the
index, power level is sufficient. If the meter
needle rests above the index, the power level
is insufficient. If this is the case, replace the
battery with a new one of the prescribed type.
When a new battery with full voltage is used,
the meter needle in the viewfinder indicates
close to the 2.8 f/stop.
When the battery power wanes, it takes more
time for the meter neelde to stop fluttering.
Because of the special circuit, the meter
needle's swing depends on the state of the
battery. The meter needle will rise as the
battery power wanes until it reaches the f/5.6
position where there is no longer any more
power. Press the battery check button until
the meter needle rests still.
When the battery is just about to fail, the
meter needle in the viewfinder rests close to
the index.
Loading the Film
The Canon AE-1 uses color or black and
white film in standard 35mm cartridges.
Opening the Back Cover
To load a cartridge of film into the
camera, first open the camera's back cover.
Pull up the rewind crank and the back cover
will pop open. The back cover can be securely
closed simply by pressing it until it locks.
The Canon Data Back A, an accessory for
imprinting data such as the day, month and
year, can be attached to the AE-1 in place of
the back cover. (See page 63.)
How to Load the Film
Avoid direct sunlight when loading or
unloading the film.
Put the cartridge into the film cartridge
chamber and press down while rotating the
rewind knob until it drops securely into
position. The protruding part of the cartridge
should be on the bottom. Pull the film leader
across and insert the end into one slot of the
multi-slot take-up spool. Turn the film ad-
vance lever and wind the film around the take-
18
LATE
up spool making sure that the perforations of
the film are engaged in the teeth of the film
transport sprocket.
Then, make sure that there is no film
slack. In case there is, gently turn the film
rewind crank in the direction of the arrow to
obtain proper film tautness and the film
advance lever to ensure that the leader is
wound fully on to the take-up spool before
the camera back is closed.
When loading the film into the camera,
do not touch the shutter curtain, the film
rails or the pressure plate.
Closing the Back Cover
Close the back cover until it snaps shut.
Gently turn the film rewind crank clockwise in
the direction of the arrow to take up the film
slack. Then, advance the film a couple of
times pressing the shutter button until the
first exposure appears in the frame counter.
Checking Film Winding
Operate the film advance lever while
watching the film rewind knob. If it rotates,
the film is properly loaded. If the rewind
knob does not rotate, open the back cover
and load the film again from the start.
Setting the ASA Film Speed
After loading the film, set the ASA film
speed according to the ASA speed of the film
in use. To set the ASA, first push the film
advance lever out to its 30° stand-off position
away from the camera body, then lift up the
ASA ring around the shutter dial and rotate it
in either direction until the proper number is
aligned with the green index mark. ASA is a
numerical rating of a film's sensitivity to light.
A higher ASA number indicates a faster film
which is more sensitive to light. On the other
hand, a lower ASA number indicates a slower
film which is less sensitive to light. The ASA
rating recommended by the manufacturer is
printed on the film box, e.g., ASA 100.
19
Kodacolor |
FILM FOR COLOR PRINTS!
36 EXPOSURES
C 135-36
The following ASA ratings can be set on
the camera. Figures in parentheses indicate
intermediate film speeds.
(64) (80) 1125) 1160! 1250) (3201
ASA25 * * 50% * 100 * 200 * 400
(500) 1640) (1250)
800 7
12000) (2500)
1600 » 3200
Use of the Memo Holder
The memo holder on the camera’s back
cover is useful for keeping data like film
speed, location, shooting. For example, after
tearing off the part of the film box which
specifies the type of the film being used, It
can be inserted into the memo holder as a
constant reminder.
Film Advance and Shutter Release
Turn the film advance lever until it stops,
so the film will advance one frame all in one
motion. The shutter will cock, and the dia-
phragm and mirror will be ready for the next
shutter release, while the frame counter
advances simultaneously to the next number.
By pushing the film advance lever lightly with
the tip of your thumb, it will open to its
30° stand-off position away from the camera
body for easy film advance.
While the film is advancing, the shutter will
not be released. Film winding can also be ac-
complished by advancing the lever in short
strokes.
Canon has developed the Power Winder A
to be used with the AE-1 for automatic film
winding. It greatly increases the automation
and mobility of the AE-1. (See page 61.)
Shutter Button Lock
i
22
Shutter Button and Shutter Lock
The shutter release button is designed to
function as the main switch of the camera to
activate the AE meter and shutter operation.
The shutter has a magnetic release, so the
meter can be read by pressing the shutter
button halfway with light pressure. By de-
pressing it further, the shutter will be released.
The magnetic release shutter button enables
faster metering for shooting in succession than
the mechanical release method does. There is
also less chance for camera shake.
When the shutter lock lever around the
shutter release button is turned to the “L”
position, the shutter button will be locked to
prevent unintentional shutter release. Keep
the shutter release button locked while
carrying the camera to prevent film waste.
When the power level of the battery is
insufficient, a safety mechanism will keep the
shutter from being released.
Frame Counter
The frame counter is an additive type
which counts one frame every time the film
advance lever winds the film. When the
camera’s back cover is opened, the frame
counter automatically resets itself to the “S”
position.
While rewinding film, the frame counter
counts back the frame numbers. The starting
position “S”, 0, and the even numbers 2 to 38
are displayed by the counter. Numbers 20 and
36 are marked in orange to call your attention
to the end of film cartridges such as are today
commercially available. The frame counter
cannot count higher than 38.
The AE-1 is an Automatic Exposure
camera with a shutter speed priority system
which electronically controls the aperture
opening for the given shutter speed to ensure
the optimum exposure. Canon's shutter speed
priority system has been adopted by this
camera in the idea that a photograph is an
instant snatched from elapsing time.
The shutter speed priority system is ideal
for catching fast-moving subjects, especially at
the decisive moment.
Furthermore, the shutter speed priority
system allows you to control image blur at
will and to emphasize the movement of the
subject. For action or other such situations,
you can realize all photographic aspirations.
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Setting the Shutter Speed
The shutter dial controls the length of
time that light is allowed to reach the film. On
the shutter speed dial, shutter speeds from
1/1000 to “B” are marked in white, while the
2-second speed is marked in orange. Each
shutter speed gradation is twice or ap-
proximately twice the preceding speed,
beginning with 1/1000 sec. (1000).
Thus, the light reaching the film at 1/250
second is half the light reaching it at 1/125.
The numbers on the shutter speed scale
represent the corresponding fraction of a
second (125 = 1/125), with the exception of 1
and 2 (marked in orange) which stand for 1
and 2 seconds respectively.
The “B” setting is for long exposures. At
the “B” setting, the shutter remains open
while the shutter button is depressed and
closes when it is not depressed. See page 48
for more details concerning long exposures.
To set the shutter speed, rotate the dial in
either direction until the desired number
clicks into place next to the white index
mark. An in-between setting should not be
used, and the shutter speed dial cannot be
rotated between “B” and “1000”.
Brightness Shutter Speed |
| (Seconds)
| 1/30t01/60
Indoors
1/125to1/250
“Mid-summer Beach: Snow-covered | 1/500to1/1000
Outdoors |
Mountains
Selecting the Shutter Speed
Shutter speed is determined in accord-
ance with the brightness of the scene and the
speed with which the main subject is moving.
You can use the above table as a general quide
to help you select an appropriate shutter
25
26
\
Overexposure _—
Warning Marks
Underexposure and
Coupling Range
Warning Lamp
speed when using a standard 50mm lens. For
indoor photography, with no special illumi-
nation, choose 1/30 of a second and 1/60 of a
second in a brightly lit room.
For outdoor photography, select 1/125
second when cloudy and 1/250 second in
sunshine. To take pictures in particularly
bright sunshine such as at a beach in mid-
summer or in snow-covered mountains, use
shutter speeds of 1/500 sec. or 1/1000 sec.
The above mentioned shutter speeds
apply when using a standard 50mm lens, but
it is necessary to choose faster shutter speeds
when using lenses of longer focal lengths
because they are more difficult to hold
steady. It is generally said that the shutter
speed figure should be greater than 1 divided
by the focal length of the lens in order to ob-
tain sharp images.
For example, when using a 200mm tele-
photo lens, shutter speed should be faster
than 1/200 second, therefore the shutter
speed in this particular case should be set at
1/250 sec. Image blur can also arise if the
camera is not properly held. See page 31.
Reading the Exposure
This camera incorporates a magnetic
release system using an electromagnetic switch
to effectively perform instantaneous light
metering. The shutter release button activates
light metering and exposure in succession and
practically simultaneously.
This is a two-step shutter button. The
exposure can be confirmed by the meter
needle inside the viewfinder by pressing the
shutter button halfway.
When the meter needle inside the view-
finder stays within the proper range and the
underexposure warning LED lamp below the
aperture scale inside the viewfinder does not
blink, the exposure is correct. See page 39
about the underexposure warning lamp.
When the underexposure warning lamp
inside the viewfinder blinks, or when the
meter needle moves into the upper over-
exposure warning zone in red, the exposure is
incorrect. When this is the case, turn the
shutter speed dial until the meter needle
inside the viewfinder moves into the proper
exposure range. To confirm this, turn the
shutter speed dial while looking into the
viewfinder and pressing the exposure pre-
view switch at the same time. It is convenient
to turn the shutter speed dial with your
forefinger in order to swiftly cope with the
speed of fast moving subjects. When using
shutter speeds slower than 1/30 second,
the camera should be placed on a tripod to
avoid the possibility of camera shake.
Viewing and Focusing
Focusing is performed in the small round
area in the center of the viewfinder. The
smaller central circle is a split-image focusing
screen and around it is the microprism ring.
The split-image rangefinder ascertains that the
image is “in focus” when the image divided
horizontally in half matches and becomes
one complete image.
The microprism rangefinder presents a
clear and steady image when in focus. The
microprism conveys a broken, shimmering
In Focus
Out of Focus
image when not accurately in focus. It is also
possible to focus with the matte screen
outside the smaller central area. You can
focus with either of these focusing aids as
you like, depending on the subject condition
and your preference.
27
28
Accessories such as an eyecup, dioptric
adjustment lenses, angle finders, and mag-
nifier can be attached to the viewfinder
eyepiece.
Dioptric Adjustment Lenses
Dioptric adjustment lenses can be
attached by inserting them from above into
the grooves in the viewfinder eyepiece to
compensate for the individual eyesight. With
them, near-sighted or far-sighted persons can
perform photography without glasses.
The built-in eyepiece lens of the AE-1 has
—1 diopter. The following 10 kinds of
dioptric adjustment lenses are optional ac-
cessories: +3, +2, +1.5, +1, +0.5, 0, —0.5,
—2, —3 and —4 (diopters).
One way of selecting the correct dioptric
adjustment lens for you is to select the one
that is the closest to your glasses in regard to
number of diopters. But, we propose that,
when you select the most appropriate dioptric
adjustment lens, you actually look into the
viewfinder through it after placing it over the
eyepiece.
Because the camera itself has —1 diopter,
the diopters of the lenses are recorded as the
real power when attached to the camera, thus
reflecting the power of the camera's
viewfinder.
Angle Finder A2 and B
The angle finder is a magnifying glass
which can be attached from above into the
grooves of the viewfinder eyepiece. It rotates
90 degrees so that the image on the viewfinder
can be viewed directly from the side or above
whenever it is inconvenient or impossible to
look directly through the eyepiece. This is
very helpful in copying, close-ups, macro-
photography, and photomicrography. There
are two types, the A2 whose image is reversed
as in a mirror, and the more advanced Angle
Finder B with the normal camera image.
Magnifier S
The Canon Magnifier S gives 2.5X magni-
fication of the viewfinder center for precision
focusing in close-up work. The strength
can be adjusted to your eyesight within the
range of +4 to —4 diopters.
The Magnifier S combined with its
adapter can be inserted into the grooves of the
viewfinder eyepiece. The adapter of the
Magnifier S is hinged to allow the magnifier
to swing upward from the eyepiece leaving the
whole screen image visible after focusing.
29
Holding the Camera
Unlike the mechanical release system, the
magnetic release system of the Canon AE-1
electronically controls the shutter. The
shutter button moves with a very light touch
and its travel is very short. The shutter will be
released by lightly depressing the shutter
button so as to prevent camera shake. But,
unsteady holding of the camera will cause
camera shake in spite of the magnetic release
system.
Therefore, be sure to hold the camera
firmly. Rest the camera on your left palm and
grasp the lower part of the lens focusing ring
between your thumb and forefinger or middie
finger. Hold the right end of the camera
firmly, with your right thumb behind the tip
of the film advance lever and your right
forefinger on the shutter button, while the
other fingers hold the camera’s finger grip.
To reduce camera shake, press your left
elbow strongly against your body and look
into the viewfinder steadying the camera
against the forehead. The right arm should be
relaxed while holding the camera.
When you use comparatively slow shutter
speeds or when you use telephoto lenses, it is
advisable to lean against a wall, a tree trunk or
some fixed object for a steadier grip. The
above describes the fundamentals of how to
hold the camera. You may find yourself the
most appropriate grip for you and get ac-
customed to it through constant practice.
31
32
Adapter A for Tripod
When using a lens of considerable overall
length, depending on the tripod being used, it
may be difficult to hold the adjustment in the
case of accidental bumping of the lens.
In such cases, the Canon Adapter A for
Tripod with a rubber matte should be placed
between the tripod and the camera for easier
handling.
Composition
Since the AE-1 has automatic exposure
control with shutter priority, you can con-
centrate on the actual picture you are going to
take without worrying about exposure differ-
ences that may occur with changing subjects.
Viewing is performed through the lens, and
there is no difference between the viewfinder
image and the image exposed on the film, as
opposed to the image provided by a separate
viewfinder which is affected by the parallax
between the viewfinder and the camera lens.
Releasing the Shutter
The Canon AE-1's shutter button uses a
magnetic release system. The shutter button
travel is very short and activated by a very
gentle touch. When you press the shutter
button, try to squeeze the shutter button
gently with your finger. Avoid hitting or
pressing the shutter button suddenly par-
ticularly when using slow shutter speeds,
otherwise blur may result.
At the moment of shooting, you should
hold your breath while the shutter button is
being pressed.
Rewinding the Film
When the film advance lever cannot
travel all the way to the end of its stroke, the
frame counter tells you that you have reached
the end of the film. You have to rewind the
film in its protective cartridge, before you can
remove it from the camera.
You must not open the camera before
rewinding the film. Since it is not protected,
any exposure to light will “fog” the film and
cause a drastic color shift and loss of picture
image.
33
To rewind the film, press in the small
rewind button on the bottom of the camera,
unfold the rewind crank and turn it in the
direction of the arrow on top of the rewind
crank. When the frame counter has reached
the “S” mark, you should stop rewinding.
Then pull up the rewind knob to open the
camera back and lift the cartridge out.
If you stop rewinding the moment the
frame counter has reached the “S” mark, the
film will not be completely rewound into the
cartridge and the film leader may still be
outside the cartridge.
Up to this point you have been reading
about the fundamental principles of AE
photography. We ask you to continue reading
through the following, more detailed de-
scription of AE photography for a fuller
understanding. This information will prove
helpful to you.
A silicon photocell is used as the photo-
sensitive element in the camera. If you
compare the silicon photocell (SPC) with
other existing photosensitive elements, you
will find it covers a greater range of lighting
situations and allows for greater accuracy. In
order to provide the AE-1 with the best
possible magnetic release system, Canon de-
veloped a special circuit for instantaneous
light metering. Due to this innovation, even in
place as dark as EV1 (at ASA 100, f/1.4, 1
sec.), metering can be performed in only
0.04 second.
Viewfinder Information
In keeping with Canon's standard of
providing all relevant information in an easily
readable format, all information is displayed
on the right side of the viewfinder. The
diagram below indicates the information pro-
vided and where it can be seen in the
viewfinder.
Meter Sensitivity Pattern
In a great variety of lighting situations, the
carefully designed Central Emphasis Metering
system simplifies problems to ensure that the
subject is correctly exposed.
Metering Range
TTL metering is possible with a f/1.4 lens
at ASA 100 from EV 1 (1 sec., f/1.4) to EV
18 (1/1000 sec., 1/16).
Matte
Overexposure Warning Marks
Microprism
Split-Image
в Manual Aperture
Control M’ Signal
Battery Check and
Stopped-Down:
Metering
Meter Needle Index Mark
Aperture Scale
Underexposure and Coupling
Range Warning Lamp
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38
ASA Film Speed
Coupling Range
25+ «50
" * 100
- -200
+ +400
* 800
* * 1600
* * 3200
2 tol/1000sec.
1 tol/1000sec.
1/2 tol/1000sec,
1/4 to1/1000sec.
1/8 to1/1000sec,
1/15ta1/1000sec.
1/30to1/1000sec.
Shutter Speed and AE Coupling Range
The shutter speed and AE coupling range
are indicated in the table. If any combination
outside the coupling range is made, the
coupling range warning lamp will blink, as it
does when warning of underexposure. Since
the lamp serves a dual function, check that
the shutter speed is within the coupling range
before assuming that the light level is too low.
Overexposure Warning Mark
When the lighting of the subject is too
bright, the meter needle will rise into the red
zones of the aperture scale. The red area is
divided into two parts. The top part is a
warning for use with a lens having a minimum
aperture of f/22, while the bottom part is for
use with a f/16 minimum aperture lens.
When the meter needle enters the red
area, incease the shutter speed and correct the
exposure.
With the FD 100mm f/4 S.C. Macro lens,
which offers a minimum aperture of f/32
available, if you want to photograph at its
minimum aperture of f/32 and the meter
needle points to the red area, do the follow-
ing: Increase the shutter speed until the meter
needle indicates f/22 and then decrease the
shutter speed by one gradation so that the ex-
posure will be correct.
Underexposure and
Coupling Range Warning LED Lamp
This lamp blinks on and off as a warning
of incorrect exposure. If you reduce the
shutter speed by turning the shutter speed dial
so the underexposure warning lamp will stop
blinking, the correct exposure will be
obtained.
Under dim light with a slow speed lens,
there is a case when the meter needle will
point at the aperture scale inside the view-
finder although it will exceed the maximum
aperture of the lens. In this case, turn the
shutter speed dial to a slower setting so that
the underexposure warning lamp stops blink-
ing.
For example, when you use an f/2.8 lens
and the meter needle exceeds the aperture
scale of f/2.8 inside the viewfinder, reduce the
shutter speed until the lamp stops flashing.
When the shutter speed is set at “B”
(Bulb) and the shutter button is pressed
halfway, this warning lamp will also flash on
and off.
39
Manual Aperture
Control "M” Signal
Battery Check and
Stopped-Down
Metering Index Mark
Battery Check and Stopped-Down
Metering Index Mark
This battery check index mark serves
also as the stopped-down metering index mark
for use with Canon FL lenses and other
similar manual lenses, when exposure measure-
ment is performed with a stopped-down
diaphragm. (See page 49.)
Manual Aperture Control “M” Signal
(LED)
When the aperture ring is not set at the
“A” mark, you cannot get the correct ex-
posure in AE photography. When the aperture
ring is set at any position other than the “A”
mark, the manual aperture control “M” signal
will blink as a warning. Also, when Canon FL
lenses, Bellows or the like are used, this
warning signal flashes on and off when ex-
posure measurement is performed.
Concerning the Exposure (Shutter
Speed and Aperture Coupling)
In order to obtain the correct exposure, it
is necessary to correctly match the shutter
speed with the aperture. The shutter speed
and the aperture are the main factors in
controlling the amount of light which is
allowed to strike the film, and when they
change, the quality of the image upon the film
also changes.
Effects of Changing the Shutter Speed
The explanations below are pertinent to
photography with fast moving subjects or
when it is intended to convey the feeling of
movement in a photograph.
If, as in example A, the photo is taken at
a shutter speed of 1/250 sec., the movement
will be frozen.
If, as in example B, with the same
subject, the photo is taken at a speed of 1/60
sec. though the subject is somewhat blurred,
movement is well expressed. It is only a
matter of aesthetics as to which of these
photographs is the best.
Depending on the selection of the shutter
speed, you can freely control the expression
of movement.
42
Effects of Changing the Aperture
Because this camera is an AE camera with
shutter speed priority, when you change the
shutter speed, the aperture will also change.
If you change the speed by one gradation, the
aperture also changes the equivalent of one
gradation. Aperture changes have an effect
on the photographic expression as follows:
In example C, the aperture was set at
f/1.8 with the shutter speed dial adjusted be-
fore shooting. In example D, a f/16 setting
was used to clearly demonstrate the dif-
ference. In C, the chesspieces in the back
and front are blurred and only the chesspiece
in the center is in focus. In D, most of the
chesspieces are sharp and clear and only
those in the back are blurred. Thus, the lens
aperture controls the zone of sharpness in
the subject field which is observed in the
viewfinder or recorded on the film.
Aperture Priority Photography
After having given careful thought to the
results of aperture adjustments, when the
f/stop has been determined before shooting,
press the exposure preview switch while
looking into the viewfinder. Then turn the
shutter speed dial until the meter needle on
the right of the viewfinder reaches the f/stop
desired.
Depth-of-Field
When a certain subject is brought into
focus, there is only a limited range in the
foreground and background of the subject
which can be kept clearly in focus. This zone
of sharpness in the subject field is depth-of-
field.
There are two methods of confirming the
extent of the depth of the field: by stopping
down the lens diaphragm or by reading a value
from the depth-of-field scale on the lens.
Confirming the Depth-of-Field by
Stopping-Down the Lens Diaphragm
1. Wind the film and determine the aperture
required for the subject by metering, then set
the f/stop by turning the aperture ring after
disengaging the aperture ring from the “A”
mark.
2. Press the stopped-down lever until it
locks. Once locked, the depth-of-field can be
checked by looking into the viewfinder. Thus,
the extent of the depth-of-field can be seen
as the zone of sharpness in the subject field
observed on the screen. When the stopped-
down lever's release button is pressed, full
aperture metering will be restored.
3. After having turned the aperture ring to
the maximum f/stop on the lens, reset it to
the “A’” mark. Otherwise, you will not be able
to obtain the correct automatic exposure for
the next shot.
Stopping-down of the FD lenses should
only be done after advancing the film.
Should you not advance the film, the
stopping-down of the lens diaphragm would
43
44
Fa
only be possible up to the previous exposures
aperture. Also, when the aperture ring is set at
the “A” mark, the stopped-down lever cannot
be pressed.
Generally, the depth-of-field will become
deeper as the aperture becomes smaller, and
shallower as the aperture becomes larger. A
shorter focal length as well as a greater subject
distance will also deepen the depth-of-field.
Comparing an interchangeable 28mm lens
with a standard 50mm lens set at the same
f/stop, the 28mm lens’s depth-of-field will be
greater. And when the photographic distance
changes, the depth-of-field changes, too. For
example, if the same subject is photographed
from three and then from seven meters away,
the foreground and background of the subject
will be deeper at the greater distance.
Depth-of-Field Scale on the Lens
A depth-of-field scale is engraved on the
lens barrel, shown as a series of f/numbers on
each side of the distance index mark opposite
the distance scale. Focusing and depth-of-field
are so closely interrelated that the depth-
of-field scale is engraved together with the
distance scale.
You can tell the extent of depth-of-field
from the distance scale. For example, if you
use the camera with a standard 50mm lens
that is focused on a subject at medium dis-
tance, say 3m with the aperture set at {/8,
the depth-of-field extends from 2.4m to 4.5m.
This tells you that with the 50mm lens
focused at 3m and the subject between 2.4m
and 4.5m the film image will be reasonably
sharp.
Using the Self-Timer
Obvious uses for the self-timer are self-
portraits and the inclusion of the photo-
grapher in the picture. The self-timer, though,
can also be used in place of a cable release
to release the shutter gently and smoothly in
close range work like photomicrography or
copying.
Push the electronic self-timer lever
forward, then press the shutter button, and
the shutter will be released 10 seconds later.
The camera memorizes the exposure value the
very instant the self-timer is activated by
pressing the shutter button. While the self-
timer is in operation, the self-timer lamp
flashes on and off.
After you finish taking a picture, the
| self-timer lever should be reset to its orignal
| position. Otherwise, it will function again the
| next time you press the shutter button.
Exposure will be automatically determined at
the instant the shutter button is pressed, and
not when the picture is actually taken. There-
fore, avoid standing directly in front of the
lens when you press the shutter button as the
AE control may miscalculate the proper ex-
posure.
To prevent stray light from entering the
viewfinder from the rear and possibly affect-
ing the meter reading, it is a good idea to
cover the eyepiece with the viewfinder cover
which is inserted into the accessory shoe. This
cover can be attached to the holder on the
viewfinder eyepiece. After doing so, press the
shutter button.
45
46
Cancelling the Self-Timer Operation
If you should want to cancel the self-
timer operation after having pressed the
shutter button, depress the battery check
button on the top side of the camera. Then,
the self-timer lamp stops blinking and the
self-timer operation will be cancelled.
If the battery check button is not de-
pressed and the self-timer lever is returned to
its original position, the shutter will be re-
leased.
Shooting Against the Light with the
Backlight Control Switch
In most cases, the Canon AE-1's Central
Emphasis Metering system will give correct
exposure readings in AE photography. How-
ever, you will occasionally encounter situ-
ations in which normal AE photography
would not provide a correct exposure reading
of the main subject. For example, when you
photograph a person standing in a room with
a brightly lit window at his back, the subject
will be underexposed. In order to properly
expose the main subject, the backlight control
switch is provided. When it is held in as the
shutter is released, the aperture is automatical-
ly opened up by one and a half f/stops more
than normal.
47
Long Exposures and “B” (Bulb) Setting
When you need shutter speeds slower
than two seconds such as for shooting night
scenes or fireworks, set the shutter speed dial
at “B”. Then, the shutter will remain open as
long as the shutter button is pressed. In long
exposures, it becomes essential to mount the
camera on a tripod and use a cable release
preferably with a lock to prevent camera
shake and attain best results.
A cable release with a locking device can
keep the shutter open even though the
operator leaves the cable release unattended.
Unlock the cable release when the shutter
should be closed.
Photography using the “B” setting will
accelerate battery consumption since it re-
quires continuous battery power. When
necessary, the battery should be replaced with
a new one having a full charge.
Stopped-Down Metering A SA a E —
When the AE-1 is used with Canon FD 76 O
lenses, photography can be performed with AE, Y
through-the-lens (TTL) metering and with AE — S
coupling. However, with the Canon FL lenses - N
and most accessories such as bellows, ex- <3
tension tubes, or a microscope adapter, it is
necessary to take a stopped-down meter
reading.
Stopping down the lens can be done by
pushing the stopped-down lever until it locks.
When the lens is stopped-down, press the
shutter button halfway or depress the ex-
posure preview switch and adjust the aper-
ture ring and/or shutter speed dial until the
meter needle inside the viewfinder is aligned
with the stopped-down metering index mark.
Press the shutter button and the photo-
‚graph will be perfectly exposed. If the lens
should be mounted on the camera with the
stopped-down lever locked, correct exposure
will not be obtained. In this case, a red
warning mark by the stopped-down coupling
lever inside the camera body is visible. After
removing the lens, on the lower part of the
camera body, just below the mirror, this
:
]
=
# Г
% 65
“LE
stopped-down coupling lever becomes visible,
as does the red mark in the case described
above.
The FD lenses mounted on the AE-1
should always be used with full aperture
metering. Stopped-down metering will give
the wrong exposure.
Manual Aperture Control
When accessories requiring manual
aperture control are used between the camera
body and a lens, lock the automatic aperture
lever in the manual position before mounting
the lens.
Lock for Manual Aperture Control (1)
For manual aperture control, push the
automatic aperture lever counterclockwise
until it stops and locks. When accessories such
as extension tubes are attached to a lens that
has been set for manual control, the dia-
phragm blades of the lens open or close as the
aperture ring is turned. To revert from manual
control, reset the automatic aperture lever in
its original position.
Lock for Manual Aperture Control (2)
There are some FD lenses with the
manual lock lever requiring a different pro-
cedure for manual control setting. With these
particular lenses, the automatic aperture lever
must be turned fully counterclockwise while
the manual lock lever is brought to the “L”
position. Once this has been done, when the
lens is mounted on the camera, the diaphragm
blades will open or close by turning the
aperture ring. To revert from manual aperture
control, reset the manual lock lever at the
position of the white dot.
Lock for Manual Aperture Control
When Using the Macrophoto Coupler (3)
In close-up photography of high mag-
nification with a lens reversed on the Macro-
photo Coupler, the automatic diaphragm
mechanism is not coupled. You must, there-
fore, remember to close down the diaphragm
manually after having locked the automatic
aperture lever in the manual position as ex-
plained above in (1) and (2). Then, fix the
Macrophoto Hood on the lens mount by
turning the bayonet ring.
When you are taking stopped-down meter
readings, the manual aperture control “M'”
signal above the aperture scale inside the
viewfinder flashes on and off only when the
shutter release button is depressed halfway.
51
52
Lock Pin
Positioning Pin
Changing the Lens
FD lenses incorporate a safety mechanism
to prevent the bayonet ring and the
diaphragm blades from moving when the lens
is not mounted on the camera. To bypass this
safety mechanism, press the lock pin in the
top recess of the bayonet mount while turning
the bayonet ring. Once this safety mechanism
has thus been cancelled, you can see the
diaphragm blades move when activated.
Since FD lenses have signal pins and
levers which couple with the camera body,
special care must be taken not to damage
them. One basic precaution is to always put
the lens down facing down whenever you
must change lenses.
The following lenses cannot be used with
the built-in meter because the extended rear
part of the lens will push in the lens speed
adjustment pin on the camera body:
FL 19mm f/3.5
FL 35mm f/2.5
FL 50mm f/1.8
FL 58mm f/1.2
R 35mm f/2.5
R 50mm f/1.8
R 100mm f/2
Lens Signal. Coupling
Aperture Signal Lever
This lever transmits the actual f/stop to
the exposure meter. It is coupled to the
aperture ring just the same as when the
aperture ring is not set at the A’ mark.
Full Aperture Signal Pin
This pin transmits the signal corres-
ponding to the lens at the full aperture
opening.
Automatic Aperture Lever
This lever closes down the aperture,
coupled with the stopped-down coupling
lever,
EE Switch Pin
This pin protrudes when the aperture ring
Is locked at the “A” mark. in this position, it
transmits a signal for AE photography.
Reserved Pin
This pin is designed for use with ac-
cessories that may be developed in the future.
33
54
Film Plane Indicator
This mark is engraved on the top of the
camera between the film rewind crank and
the battery check button, just to the left of
the pentaprism, to indicate the exact position |
of the film plane. The distance scale on the
lens shows subject distances measured from
the film plane indicator. This mark is not used
in general photography, but in close-ups and
macrophotography it is often used to obtain
the exact subject distance.
Scales on the Lens
Aperture Scale
The aperture of the lens is the opening of
the diaphragm blades, like the iris of the
human eye. It controls the amount of light
passing through the lens to the film surface.
The f/number is a numerical expression
of the effective aperture. It is obtained by
dividing the focal length of the lens by the
diameter of the effective aperture. When the
f/number is set one scale gradation higher, the
lens allows in half the light it would at the
previous gradation. Intermediate settings of
the aperture scale can be used, too. In some
lenses, the f/number setting one gradation
higher than the first f/number setting does not
necessarily allow only half the amount of light
of the previous setting through the lens to
expose the film as is the case at the other
settings. This should be taken into con-
sideration when necessary.
The aperture ring usually has gradations
marked as follows, taking f/2 as a basic
unit:
Brightness _
(f/stop) | 1.214% 28 4 56 8 11 16
Ratio | 3 2 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64
Distance Scale
The distance scale is for distances
measured from the film plane. This scale is
not generally used except for confirming the
depth-of-field, performing guide number
calculations in flash photography, or photo-
graphing with infrared film.
Read one-digit distances in the middle of
the number marked on the scale. Two-digit
distances should be read at the point in the
middle of the two digits.
Depth-of-Field Scale
You can determine the depth-of-field by
checking the depth-of-field scale and the
distance scale on the lens barrel. Both are
closely interrelated.
Infrared Index Mark
The red dot infrared index mark engraved
on the lens barrel is a focusing correction
index mark for infrared film. Because infrared
light rays have longer wavelengths, they focus
on a plane slightly behind that of ordinary
visible light rays. Therefore, it is necessary to
slightly modify the normal method of focus-
ing the lens. After focusing the same as usual,
note the tiny red dot engraved on the lens
barrel just to the right of the distance index
and turn the focusing ring slightly to align the
55
56
focused distance with this red dot.
For instance normally, when the focus is
adjusted at 5m on the distance scale, you turn
the focusing ring slightly so that the 5 on the
distance scale matches the red dot infrared
index mark.
When photographing with infrared black
and white film, visible light rays must be kept
out by means of a deep red filter (R1) over
the lens. The infrared index mark is engraved
in a position based upon the conclusion
arrived at through experiments that the film
most senstive to the 800mu wavelength is
to be used with a red filter. For example, the
Kodak Film 1R135 and the Wratten Filter 87.
Please follow the directions of the
specific instructions of the film manufacturer
when performing infrared color photography.
Accessories, Care of the Camera,
Maintenance and Miscellanea
Canon Speedlite 155A
The versatile circuitry of the Canon AE-1
allows it to perform fully automatic flash
photography with the Speedlite 155A es-
pecially designed for this camera. It is not
necessary to set the shutter speed or the
aperture on the camera as, up to now, flash
photography required.
When the 155A is attached to the AE-1,
set the aperture ring of the lens to the “A”
mark and the shutter speed dial to any
position other than “B” (Bulb). With the pilot
lamp of the 155A lighting up, the 155A func-
tions to automatically adjust the camera’s
shutter speed to the X synchronization speed
as well as the aperture to the prescribed
f/stop value.
After it flashes, the camera automatically
switches over to the AE photography mode
until the pilot lamp lights up again during
which period AE photography can be con-
tinued. A steady support may be required if
shutter speeds are slower than 1/30 of a
second.
Like ordinary flash units, you can also
perform flash photography by operating the
aperture ring manually. When you are using a
Canon FL lens which does not allow full
aperture metering, automatic flash photo-
graphy can be performed by setting the
prescribed f/stop on the lens manually. In
both cases, the shutter speed is automatically
adjusted to the X synchronization speed of
1/60 sec.
As the Speedlite 155A uses a unique
averaged light sensing system which keeps
down the distribution of the reflected light
from the center, the influence of the back-
ground is greatly reduced. Thus, the 155A
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60
offers more appropriate exposure than the
present flash units do.
Moreover, when the main switch of the
Speedlite 155A is turned off, the flash cir-
cuitry is completely cut off and the AE-1
switches over to function as an AE camera
even when the 155A is mounted on it.
Flash Photography with the AE-1
Flash Synchronization: X Synchro-
nization Speed (1/60 sec.)
1. When the AE-1 is used with the Canon
ESPE 155A, the shutter speed is auto-
matically adjusted to the X synchronization
speed at the time the pilot lamp lights up.
2. Flash Terminal: The AE-1 offers a
choice of two kinds of flash terminals; one is a
directly coupled contact of the hot shoe type,
and the other is of the B type terminal, as
determined by Japanese Industrial Standards
(JIS) for use with flash units with a cord.
When both flash terminals are used, two flash
units can be fired simultaneously.
> Flash Synchronization Range
ну EE Yaco oo Vo J J | Jo A A|} 188
FF hea]
|м and ME
cla
Fla aM Bulbs
nm
let tranic
| La gi
(A mark indicates possible unevenness in the picture depending
on the flash butb.)
4. When the AE-1 is used with a flash unit
other than the Canon Speedlite 155A, be sure
to set the shutter speed at 1/60 sec. and the
aperture manually to the f/stop prescribed for
automatic flash photography or to a proper
f/stop as indicated by guide number cal-
culation.
Canon Power Winder A
The Canon Power Winder A is an auto-
matic film winder which makes the functions
of automatic photography of the Canon AE-1
outstandingly effective. It can be attached to
any Canon AE-1 directly, without any other
accessory or attachment. When you attach the
Power Winder A to the Canon AE-1 and press
the shutter button, the film will be im-
mediately wound after being exposed.
Furthermore, with the Power Winder A you
can catch subjects’ movements and changing
expressions because you are able to take
continuous or single frame photography at
your pleasure. When you perform continuous
photography, the Power Winder A couples
with shutter speed from 1/60 to 1/1000
seconds while, in single frame photography,
any shutter speed can be used.
The Canon AE-1 is a very compact,
lightweight camera whose main functions
respond to the electronic circuitry built into
the camera body. It is possible to photograph
just the same as in general photograph even
when the Canon Power Winder A is attached,
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62
Data Back A
This is an interchangeable back cover
with a built-in data imprinting mechanism. It
can imprint the day, month and year on the
lower right hand corner of the photograph at
the moment of the shutter's release, as well as
other data to identify or classify the pictures
you take. It has letters and Roman numerals
for greater versatility and convenience.
Canon Bellows FL
This is an adjustable bellows for high-
magnification photography. Magnification is
adjusted within the range of about 0.7 to 3
times the size of the subject when it is used in
combination with a standard lens.
The built-in semi-automatic aperture
mechanism automatically closes the
diaphragm at the time of shooting and makes
the Bellows FL almost as easy to use as a fully
automatic lens. Focusing is performed with a
bright field of view. It has a built-in strut to
prevent blur. The Slide Duplicator FL for
duplicating slides can be attached to the end
of the Bellows.
The use of a macro lens especially cor-
rected for close-up photography is particularly
recommended for photography with the
bellows.
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64
Accessories
AF a A Об) —
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
Angle Finders A2 and B
Eyecup $
Magnifier S
Camera Holder F2
Macrophoto Coupler FL55, 58
Lens Hood BS-55
Microphoto Hood
Photomicro Unit F
Slide Duplicator
. Handy Stand F
. Gadget Bag 4-type
. Gadget Bag G-1
. Canon Release 30
. Canon Release 50
55mm filters
58mm filters
58mm Close-up Lenses (240, 450, 1800)
55mm Close-up Lenses (240, 450)
Copy Stand 4
Bellows M
Bellows FL
21. Extension Tube M Set
22. Dioptric Adjustment Lenses for Eyesight
Compensation {10 kinds)
23. Speedlite 155A
24. Power Winder A
25. Data Back A (To be marketed in the
near future.)
The camera 1s provided with the following:
Body: Soft Case, Viewfinder Cover, Silver
Oxide Battery, Eyecup 4S, Flash
Terminal Cap, Camera Cover RF,
Neckstrap 7, Spare Battery Case, and
Adapter A for Tripod.
Lens: Lens Cap and Dust Cover.
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A PE
Characteristics
The Canon AE-1 represents a landmark in
the history of SLR (Single-Lens-Reflex)
cameras.
Up to now, electronic control in SLR
cameras was limited, for example, to the
mechanism that decides exposure, but the
AE-1 is the first camera in the world to
incorporate a CPU (Central Processing Unit)
by means of which automatic exposure,
memoery, transmission of signals, display,
regulation of time and completion signal are
all electronically controlled. It is an entirely
new kind of SLR camera.
A high degree of automation has not been
restricted only to the camera. It extends to
the various accessories with the same standard
of precision.
The AE-1 is the first camera to offer a
totally automated electronic photographic
system. It takes its name, AE-1, from this
concept.
Application of Electronics is the
Cornerstone of the Entire Design
Automation in the AE-1 was made
possible by the application of the latest
electronic technology, after a thorough
analysis of all mechanisms and their
operation. The important mechanical features
made way for the electronic ones, thus
changing the very essence of the camera's
design.
As a result, a miniature computer (CPU)
was successfully incorporated in the AE-1 for
the first time in the world to compute, judge,
control, dispiay and regulate required in-
formation.
Adoption of the Most Advanced Ele-
ctronic Technology
The 12 (Integrated Injection Logic), as
far as its applications in photography are
concerned, is the most outstanding achieve-
ment in electronics up to date. An LSI digital
circuit with extremely high properties of
accumulation, an operational amplifier, a
circuit with full use of an analog switch, a
hyperbolic function resistance using both
thick and thin film technology, an analog-
digital convertor, and the proper interfaces,
together with their construction and arrange-
ment in modular form, represent techno-
logical breakthroughs that go well beyond the
concept of a camera as we have known before.
Exceptional Reliability through
Application of Electronics
The Canon AE-1, since it employs com-
puter technology and its overall design is
based on electronics, opens the doors to a
new age in the camera world.
In order to make an interrelated whole
out of all the inner mechanisms and to
automatize the assembly process, each and
every part must be built with a very high
degree of precision. And Canon extensively
used computers to automate the design of
the modules as well as the assembly, manu-
facturing and finishing processes within the
strict accuracy requirements the AE-1 called
for.
Modular construction allows Canon to
thoroughly check each function and to accel-
erate production with the best quality con-
trol. Furthermore, computers were used not
only in the design but also in the manu-
facturing, assembling and quality control,
to insure that the outcome would be a un-
iform quality product.
— Hz = a
By new production methods and the
adoption of highly advanced packaging
techniques in the manufacture of electronic
circuitry, the vital parts were completely
sealed to keep out dust and humidity and
reduce the effects of temperature.
Weather Proofing
The IC and resistance circuits were built
as units. Not only was the wiring stream-
lined to increase efficiency, but also the new
modular joints and all other main parts were
completely sealed to obtain the best possible
weather proofing.
Shutter Priority System to Let No
Chance Go By
This camera automatically decides the
correct diaphragm opening of the lens you are
using according to the light the subject is
reflecting, once the shutter speed has been
previously set. This is the meaning of shutter
speed priority. The structure of all FD lenses
allows the AE-1 to couple with the functions
of the shutter speed priority. Therefore, as
you compose the picture, you can freely
choose the shutter speed that corresponds to
the speed at which the subject is moving.
A Gentle Touch Activates the Shutter
Button
This unique shutter button activates a
complex of electronically controlled
fuctions.
As opposed to the conventional mechanical
systems, it serves as a switch to turn the ele-
ctric circuity on or off, and operates magneti-
cally, in order to make the shutter release
extremly fast and smooth.
Immediate Response Metering for Any
Situation
From light metering to exposure setting,
all functions are electronically controlled.
With this astounding, revolutionary system, at
the very instant the shutter button is pressed,
the electronic brain (CPU) immediately com-
putes the photographic information and
produces the operating command. In EV 1
lighting conditions, light metering takes but
only 0.04 sec.
There is no need to worry about in-
accuracies in metering and exposure timing.
No matter how suddenly the chance to shoot
avails itself to you, a gentle pressure on the
shutter button will do the trick.
Silicon Photocell and Logarithmic
Amplifier In a Single IC
The silicon photocell is well known for its
outstanding photosensitive characteristics.
The AE-1 has a logarithmic amplifier and
a special, immediate response circuit, inte-
grated into a single IC in order to obtain the
speediest responsiveness while at the same
time ensuring remarkable overall durability.
Power-Saving Circuit
The main parts were designed so as to
require the minimum of energy while a
sequential command controls energy cut-off
and supply. Thus, there is no unnecessary
battery consumption.
A battery lasts the equivalent of 20,000
shutter releases in continuous photography, or
one year under normal use.
Compact, Lightweight Design for Great
Handling Ease
Body dimensions have been reduced to a
minimum, and the lightweight structure, with
a special finger grip and rounded back con-
tours, allows you to be right with the fastest
action by virtue of its truly great handling
ease.
Automatic Film Winding with the
Canon Power winder A
The Power Winder A, extremely easy to
attach, enables the AE-1 to photograph con-
tinuously at up to 2 frames per second. This
feature is enhanced by the fact that actual
handling of the AE-1 is very much the same
with or without this accessory attached.
Canon Speedlite 155A, the World's
First AE Computer Flash
When the Speedlite 155A is used with the
AE-1, flash photography can be performed
with the aperture ring set at the “A” mark for
automatic exposure. When the pilot lamp
lights to indicate the proper charging level has
been reached, the shutter speed is auto-
matically set and the aperture automatically
determined. After the flash, the camera
returns to its original AE setting.
Using the Sharp FD and Special Lenses
FD lenses are the outcome of the appli-
cation of the latest electronic technology in
the field of optics. Their image sharpness and
color reproduction ability are unmatched.
Canon offers a full array of interchangeable
lenses ranging from the 7.5mm fisheye to the
1200mm super telephoto, totaling as many as
40 lenses including the special purpose lenses.
They will certainly sharpen up your photo-
graphy.
Data Imprinting Mechanism
The Data Back A, when attached in place
of the AE-1 back cover, can directly imprint
the date and other information on the
negative at the very moment the picture is
taken. This information is imprinted in the
lower right hand corner of the picture and is
most convenient for keeping track of the
dates of your photographs or classifying them
in general.
TR
Care and Storage of the Camera
No matter how exceptional the camera
may be, it will not give you all it can unless it
is taken care of properly. Please make sure to
keep the camera clean all the time. Acquire
a blower brush, cleaning liquid, cleaning
paper, silicone cloth, etc.
Care of the Camera
Dust on the lens or the viewfinder should
first be blown off with a blower brush and
then wiped lightly with cleaning paper im-
pregnated with cleaning liquid. After the
camera has been used on a beach or near the
sea, clean it well because salt can affect its
mechanisms. A blower brush should also be
used to clean the mirror box inside the camera
body. If it should require wiping, by all
means, please take the camera to a Canon
authorized distributor.
The film compartment has to be cleaned
with a blower because it easily collects film
dust. If the dust contains sand, the film is
easily scratched. When cleaning the rail
surface or the pressure plate, please use
cleaning paper and cleaning liquid. Be careful
not to touch the shutter curtain when doing
so.
Maintenance
Keep the camera in a place with low
humidity and no dust. After removing the
camera from the case, take the battery out.
When you are going to store the camera for a
long time without using it, the shutter release
button must be activated now and then, to
prevent mold and mechanical trouble.
Please avoid storing the camera in places
such as mentioned below.
1. Inside the trunk or rear window of a car
in the direct sum because the temperature can
rise to an extremely high degree and this may
give rise to trouble in the camera.
2. Places such as laboratories where
chemicals are around may cause rust or
corrosion.
To safeguard the durability of the
camera, please take it to the closest Canon
authorized distributor once every three years
at least. If the camera is not in use for a long
time, please use it only after closely checking
each and every part of it.
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Note: When taking off the top cover of the
soft case, turn the top cover to the bottom
then slide the cover straight up and pull it out
of the hole as shown in the photo.
To guard against the inconvenience
of loss, theft or other unforeseen
problems, fill in the form below to
keep as a record of your camera for
use in such circumstances.
Name of the Camera: Canon AE-1
Body Number:
Lens Number:
Name:
Address:
Telephone Number:
Note:
Self-Timer Lamp Shutter Speed Index
Frame Counter
Winder Coupler Cover
Memo Holder
Winder Guide Hole
Winder Terminal
Film Rewind Button
Tripod Socket
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Canon
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