Canon AE-1 35mm Film Camera with 50mm F1.8 Lens User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper use and care of your Canon AE-1 35mm film camera, equipped with a 50mm F1.8 lens. The Canon AE-1 is a classic manual focus SLR camera known for its robust design and shutter-priority automatic exposure capabilities. Understanding its features and functions will enable you to capture high-quality photographs.

2. Product Overview

The Canon AE-1 is a single-lens reflex (SLR) camera designed for 35mm film. It features a durable body and a versatile 50mm F1.8 lens, suitable for a wide range of photographic situations. Key controls include the shutter speed dial, aperture ring, and film advance lever.

Figure 1: Front view of the Canon AE-1 camera with the 50mm F1.8 lens.

3. Setup

3.1. Battery Installation

The Canon AE-1 requires one PX28 (4LR44) Lithium Metal battery for operation. Proper battery installation ensures the camera's light meter and shutter function correctly.

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the front of the camera body, near the lens mount.
2. Use a coin or a similar flat object to unscrew the battery compartment cover counter-clockwise.
3. Insert the new PX28 (4LR44) battery with the positive (+) terminal facing outwards.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover and screw it clockwise until secure.

3.2. Film Loading

The Canon AE-1 uses standard 35mm film. Follow these steps to load film correctly:

1. Open the camera back by pulling up the film rewind knob until the back cover unlatches.
2. Place the film cartridge into the film chamber on the left side of the camera.
3. Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool on the right side. Insert the tip of the film leader into one of the slots on the take-up spool.
4. Advance the film slightly using the film advance lever to ensure it is securely engaged with the take-up spool.
5. Close the camera back firmly until it clicks into place.
6. Advance the film two frames by pressing the shutter button and winding the film advance lever. This ensures that any film exposed during loading is wound past the lens. The frame counter should show '1'.

Figure 2: Rear view of the Canon AE-1 with the film door open, illustrating the film loading area.

3.3. Lens Attachment

The Canon AE-1 uses FD mount lenses. To attach the 50mm F1.8 lens:

1. Align the red dot on the lens with the red dot on the camera's lens mount.
2. Insert the lens into the camera body and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.
3. To remove the lens, press the lens release button on the camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.

4. Operating the Camera

4.1. Exposure Control

The Canon AE-1 offers both manual and shutter-priority automatic exposure control. In shutter-priority mode, you select the shutter speed, and the camera automatically sets the appropriate aperture for correct exposure.

4.2. Focusing

The Canon AE-1 is a manual focus camera. To achieve sharp focus, look through the viewfinder and rotate the focusing ring on the lens until your subject appears clear and sharp in the split-image rangefinder or microprism collar.

4.3. Taking a Picture

1. Set the desired film speed (ISO) on the camera's dial.
2. Select your desired exposure mode (manual or shutter-priority).
3. Frame your shot through the viewfinder.
4. Focus the lens manually.
5. Press the shutter button halfway to activate the light meter and check the exposure reading in the viewfinder. Adjust settings as needed.
6. Press the shutter button fully to take the picture.
7. Advance the film using the film advance lever to prepare for the next shot.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
• For the lens, use a lens brush to remove dust, followed by a lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
• Keep the viewfinder and mirror clean using a blower brush.

5.2. Storage

• Store the camera in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Remove the battery if the camera will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
• Keep the lens cap on when not in use to protect the lens.

6. Troubleshooting

• Camera not powering on: Check battery installation and ensure the battery has sufficient charge.
• Shutter not firing: Ensure the film advance lever is fully wound and the battery is functional.
• Exposure issues: Verify ISO setting, check light meter readings, and ensure correct aperture/shutter speed selection for the chosen mode.
• Film advance issues: Ensure film is correctly loaded and not jammed.

7. Specifications

8. Support Information

This Canon AE-1 camera is a used product. Any specific warranty or support beyond the initial purchase condition would be provided by the reseller. Please refer to your purchase documentation for reseller contact information and return policies.

For general information regarding the Canon AE-1 camera, you may find resources on the official Canon website or reputable photography forums.