Canon A-Series SLR models- Guestbook/Message Board

Modern Classic SLRs Series :
Canon A-Series SLR models - Archived Messages/Guestbook Entries

Canon AV-1 (1979) Canon AT-1 (1978) Canon A-1 (1978)
Canon AL-1 (1982) Canon AE-1 (1976) Canon AE-1 P (1981)

| 1051-1100 |

From Terry Carraway (Thu Oct 28 22:15:51 1999 ):
Kevin - Right, you can use slower speeds, but not faster with flash. The way a focal plane shutter works is that there are two curtains. The exposure is the time delay between the two curtains. At the maximum flash sync speed the time delay is such that the first curtain goes all the way across the frame before the second curtain starts moving. So the very short duration of the flash can illuminate the entire frame. At higher speeds, the second curtain starts moving before the first curtain goes across. So only a small slice of the frame is being exposed at any time. The flash will only illuminate that small slice. Of course slower speeds leave the shutter open fully so they can be used for special effects. - As to what shutter speed to se indoors with ambient light, whatever you need to use. The two things you trade off is with slower shutter speeds you might get blurring from motion or camera shake. On the other hand, if you use too high a shutter speed, the aperture gets large and you get very shallow depth of field. So much so that with a fast lens you can get to the point where a persons eyes are in focus, but their nose isn't. So you make the trade off.
From Kevin (Thu Oct 28 12:52:13 1999 ):
Terry, Thanks for the feedback. So let me get this straight, if i use a flash, it has to be set at 1/60 speed right? The timing is all messed up if I go faster or slower with the shutter correct? So if I take off the flash, then I can shoot at any speed I want to then.. In general, what kind of shutter speed do I want on the AE-1P? If I'm shooting indoors, with no flash, and 400film is 1/125 too fast? Thanks for taking the time to answer my newbie questions. Much appreciated, Kevin.
From Isaac Carty (Thu Oct 28 02:36:28 1999 ):
I am trying to find someone on the web who can repair my father's cannon a-1. He has loved and used that camera my entire life. He sent it somewhere allready and they returned it saying that no were avaialable for it. If anyone has any info a resource that can repair this model, please send some info my way. It would mean the world to him thank you. You could call him (collect) @ 802-763-8486. His name is Fred Carty. Thank you. ~Isaac Carty
From tanja (Wed Oct 27 21:06:40 1999 ):
hello out there! can somebody give me a recommendation: which canon is better: A1 or AV1 Thanx 4 help!
From tb (Wed Oct 27 06:35:56 1999 ):
I have an original Canon AE-1 camera---it has always taken wonderful pictures----but I never invested in a wide-angle lens----where can I purchase this lens for my camera? No one around seems to know how or what will fit (& can I use a generic lens??)
From Terry Carraway (Tue Oct 26 23:04:37 1999 ):
Kevin - Yes, you used the wrong shutter speed. The maximum speed that you can use with a flash is 1/60 on the AE-1P. That is the fastest shutter speed where the entire frame is uncovered by the shutter at the same time. The aperture should vary based on the distance from the subject. The proper aperture is the guide number for your flash divided by the distance from the flash to the subject. So for a basic flash unit you should have operated in a full manual mode. With the Canon dedicated flashes, a lot of this is taken care of. With the 199A it sets your shutter speed to 1/60 and sets the aperture based on the distance range you set the flash to. The flash then turns itself off when it "sees" enough light bounce back from the subject.
From Kevin (Tue Oct 26 10:43:45 1999 ):
A message board! Great..maybe you people can help me out. I am new to SLR cameras and photography. I grew up using the automatic deals, but recently became interested in taking pictures the "real" way. hehe. Anyways, I have a Canon AE-1 Program, with a 28-200mm Tamron Lens, and a cheap Braun flash. I just had a rough weekend. I was assigned to help take pictures at my relative's 25th wedding anniversary. It was a formal occasion and quite a big deal! I went through 4 rolls of film...got them developed..and only 1 roll came out properly! The rest had a thick black line/rectangle on the sides. The guy at the photoshop said that it was my shutter, and that I had used an incorrect shutter speed. I had shot most of the night using 1/125 speed with a flash attached and 400 film. Is this wrong? Do I have to use 1/60 shutter speed if I have a flash attached? (There is a little flash symbol written next to the 1/60 speed..) The aperture varied..should I have kept it constant? If anyone can get back to me, it would be greatly appreciated. Please e-mail me if you can... kevinng828@hotmail.com Help me so I won't let people down again! A lot of memories were ruined because of me.. Kevin
From Terry Carraway (Tue Oct 26 04:46:13 1999 ):
Darla - The F1 and A1 are two very different cameras. One is not overall better than the other. One might be better for a specific purpose, but then the ohter will be better for some other purpose. It all comes down to what you are trying to do or want to do. I have had an A-1 for many years. I tend towards action shots such as car racing and airshows. The various auto or partially auto modes work well for that. It also does otehr things well. My wife has an F-1n (second mechanical). She mainly shoots still life type shots. The F-1 is is MUCH better in full manual mode. It also has some options that the A-1 doesn't have (speed finder, interchangeable focusing screens, etc). So both are very good. But the best is the T90. I have ended up getting two of these recently as they solve some of the things I didn't like about the A-1, without giving up a single thing that I did like. Of course I kept the A-1 also. :)
From Jim5618 (Tue Oct 26 01:12:26 1999 ):
....Now if we can just find a techie to make these manuals into a nice PDF file we could print....life would be good....heehee
From Dr Strangelove (Mon Oct 25 12:45:34 1999 ):
Dear Jill: Congratulations for taking the time to print out the online manual for the AE-1. That shows your determination to master this camera. User friendly? Well, it is easier than housebreaking a puppy... Easier than getting the last of the ketchup out of the bottom of a bottle. Easier than learning how to configure your modem and to save your bookmarks. In short E-a-s-y. The AE-1 was a giant succes for Canon because it had programmed idiot modes and ability to do some more custom things. You will love it. Get some decent choice of FD lenses, maybe one zooom lens too, and you will have much joy. .. Dr S.
From steve (Fri Nov 5 06:13:23 1999 ):
I was wondering what these 4 filters do. L-1a Y-48 O-56 80-A
From Terry Carraway (Wed Nov 3 22:39:31 1999 ):
Just for those who didn't know, there is also another place for questions and answers about Canon FD gear. It isn't too active right now though. It does have one advantage over this board, in that the messages are threaded, the questions and answers to each question are grouped. It is at http://www.greenspun.com/bboard/q-and-a.tcl?topic=Canon%20FD
From BB (Wed Nov 3 20:56:18 1999 ):
I recently purchased an A-1 with 28mm f/2.8 lens and Power Winder MA all in mint condition at a local 2ndhand shop for $269NZ. I went to the shop to buy a 100-200mm FD lens but came out the A-1, which will be an excellent backup for my T90.
From Don (Wed Nov 3 09:05:58 1999 ):
The A-1 has been my standard camera for over 20 years. Both bodies have developed a curious problem. When computing the exposure, the internal display will show an f stop reading that is much greater than it should be. By releasing and rotating the lens, the exposure is (usually) restored to its correct setting. Any suggestions on eliminating this problem?
From Terry Carraway (Mon Nov 1 22:24:13 1999 ):
Kevin - As for the under exposed, you may not have set the aperture right for the flash. With flash, only the aperture effects the flash exposure. If the aperture is set to small, the shot will be underexposed. Also the flash may have lost power. The Guide Number published by the flash manufacturer is normally somewhat otimistic, add to it some age, and you need a larger aperture than you think. Also some flash manufacturers rate their small flashes for a "normal" room, which means somewhat small and painted a light color. In a very large room, you lose the effect of some flash bouncing off the walls and ceiling. All add up to underexposure. As to out of focus, I have no idea, other than due to the low light you just didn't get the focus right.
From Kevin (Mon Nov 1 15:17:44 1999 ):
Terry, Thanks for the help, its really appreciated. Now I know and hopefully won't make the same mistake again. I just wish I can go back in time and not screw up on my friend's 25th wedding anniversary. I had some really nice shots in there. Too bad most of them turned out underexposed and with two shutter curtains blocking 50% of the photo! Ok..another question for ya. I understand now why the pictures were "cutoff" because of the shutter curtain. But why were they out of focus and underexposed? I guess its all related..maybe the shutter opened so quickly that the frame couldn't catch the flash? Thanks again Terry.
From Ron Day (Mon Nov 1 02:15:14 1999 ):
Does anyone have a Canon Charger MA for sale at a reasonable price? I've found that most places charge over $100, no matter where I check prices at. I'd like to get one as soon as possible.
From stefan (Sun Oct 31 11:12:11 1999 ):
re - A1... a great camera, have had one for over 10years, sadly don't use it often enough. Have found that using the dedicated flash 199 with it makes taking flash pictures so much easier - and more successful too. Sometines I take my "old" PELLIX and use that instead- though I do find that the quality of the final image is not as sharp as it usaed to be --- do lens get tired with age too!!! Have though abuot buying a T90 body. Might do that one day! Anyone like to comment about a PELLIX - if they are still using one. cheers.........stefan cheers......stefan
From jim5618 (Thu Oct 28 22:25:13 1999 ):
I thought that an AE-1 would automatically set the shutter speed to 60 if a flash was used? Is this only with Canon flashes? I had heard that a malfunction of this feature was the likely culprit if your camera only works at one speed
From Terry Carraway (Thu Oct 28 22:21:57 1999 ):
TB - you can get a wide angle lens from many used suppliers or online via eBay (www.ebay.com) online auction. You are looking for a Canon FD mount lens. I prefer to only buy Canon lenses for both quality and resale reasons. - Tanya - It depends on what you are going to do with it. The A-1 has a lot more capabilities and choices when it comes to which automated mode you are using. The AV-1 is aperture priority only. The A-1 does aperture priority, shutter speed priority, full automatic exposure, and full manual. So the A-1 will do everything an AV-1 will do, as well as everything an AE-1 Program will do, sort of like having two cameras in one. - Isaac - There are many places around that can fix the camera, that have parts in stock. I don't know where you Dad is, but there is Strauss in Washington, DC; Horizon in the SF Bay area; and Camera Repair of Japan in Atlanta area. I have personally used Strauss, but not the others.
From Cassie (Wed Nov 10 13:00:31 1999 ):
i have a AE-1 program and i love it! it is so easy to use, and to handle. i take pictureall the the time
From Leonard P S Foo (Wed Nov 10 11:44:39 1999 ):
For those who needs a reference guide on various lenses: Try this new upload at: Canon FD Resources: FD Lenses Enjoy!
From Gilberto B. Gil (Wed Nov 10 00:34:50 1999 ):
I have a problem with my AT-1: the film loader makes the shutter work, every time I try to advance the film. A service office at my town told me it is a problem with the ëlectromagnet (?), located at the bottom of its body. Now I am trying to locate the AT-1 service manual, so I would be able to specify the correct part number of this piece that nedds to be changed. Any help is wellcome, either the manual or the correct part number, or even a site where I can try to buy these. gbgil@tecnatel.com
From Terry Carraway (Tue Nov 9 04:58:08 1999 ):
Kathleen - There are some very nice Canon FD Macro lenses available. The standard one is the 50mm f3.5. This is a nice lens, but require a too close working distance. Next up is the 100mm f4 lens. This is very nice and basically doubles the working distance. There is also a 200m Macros lens, but they are fairly rare and somewhat expensive. All are available used. I use eBay (www.ebay.com) or suggest KEH (www.keh.com). Adrian - The M means that the lens is set in the manual position, or that is is not set to A for automatic aperture control. The one button works just like pushing the shutter release half way. The other works the same, except it locks the exposure setting, so you can recompose the shot, but keep the same metering. Gerson - Any of the F series, A series, or T series cameras will use your FD lenses. Which one you want depends on how you use a camera, and what features you need/want. Al are only available used. See the first part for a couple of starting places for used bodies. You might want to try and find a late version of the How to Select and Use Canon Cameras. The 1986 version covers all models up to and including the T90. Evan - See the above mentioned book for more information about the entire Canon line. The F-1 excelled due to its multiple accessories. You can change the finder, the screens, add or remove automation, use along roll (250 exposure) back, etc. Whatever you needed it to do, it would probably do.
From Kevin Walters (Tue Nov 9 00:18:53 1999 ):
Does anybody know if there is a digital back available that will fit a Canon AE-1? I've had the AE-1 since 1980, with lots of lenses, and would like to do digital stuff without having to scan everything in.
From Hollis (Mon Nov 8 04:11:34 1999 ):
Great to see this board. I have a Canon A-1 with a 35-105 3.5 zoo lens. My question is does anybody know how the new EOS 28-105 compare in terms of sharpness? Thanks
From gerson perry (Mon Nov 8 01:32:02 1999 ):
I own an AE1 program thatis on the fritz. I have a bunch of lens to go with it. What other body style will go with these lens?? Where can I buy this above used body in good condition?? Isn't there an B&H camera catalogue? Sure appreciate an answer.
From Adrian (Sun Nov 7 22:58:16 1999 ):
hi, What a great site. I have just purchased a Canon A1 and having a probelm knowing how to use the aperture check and memory buttons, a;so what is the M stand for in the viewfinder screen! GuessI will get to know more if I keep reading this Board. The instructions don't actually help you to know how to get the best from the camera, just what things are for!!!! Help HELP
From Evan Ryan (Sat Nov 6 14:57:44 1999 ):
Good day. I am an amature, but trying to learn everything I can in this vast world of photography. I have three AE-1 Programs which I absolutely LOVE. I am quite interested in learning more about the different Canon cameras, and my first question is what exactly makes the F1 stand out above the rest of Canon's classic SLR's and be classified as a professional camera? What advantages does it posess over the AE-1 Program? Also, what is a reasonable price to expect when looking to pick up a used F1n? Thank you. ~Evan
From Kathleen (Fri Nov 5 06:51:36 1999 ):
I have an A-1 that I am trying to equip to take close-up photos of various eye conditions on an up-coming trip...I am the first to admit that I am an amateur (though wanting to become better). Any suggestions on macro lens set-ups? Thanks in advance!
From Terry Carraway (Mon Nov 15 23:28:03 1999 ):
Leann - There are places around that do have stocks of parts for A series Canons. Where are you located? CHEF - This site has the entire manual online. Art - Until the rewind button pops out, the camera will not wind. Have you tried to load some film? Normally the pulling of film across one of the rollers makes the rewind button pop out.
From art (Mon Nov 15 10:46:50 1999 ):
I have replaced the battery in my AE-1, but still will not wind/forwared, nothing happen when the shutter button is pressed. The battery seems to be good. The rewind button under the camera is pressed in. I'm not sure what the problem is. Any replies will be appreciated.
From Mike (Mon Nov 15 06:15:18 1999 ):
I recently had my AE-1 (and lenses) stolen. The insurance form is asking for the original cost. Well, I bought the camera and lenses in the late 70s and early 80s and can't remember what I paid. Does anybody out there have access to the MSRP for the following equipment: Canon AE-1 with FD 50mm f/1.4, Canon FD 35-70mm f/2.8-3.5, Canon FD 70-210mm f/4, Canon Winder A. I haven't decided if I will try to replace this stuff (I loved my AE-1) or upgrade. I am considering the EOS Elan IIE with a 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 USM lens. Thanks in advance for any help on the AE-1 prices.
From CHEF (Sun Nov 14 20:34:16 1999 ):
Hi,I bought my second hand canon AE1 2 days ago and i paid like 200 usd for it.Do you think it's expensive or cheap?I live in Turkey and the machine i bought is very clean. I have some questions to the friends who can explain me basicly(by giving examples because my english may not be enough to understand the technical phrases.)about; 1-stopped down lever 2-backlight control switch 3-winder? :-) if u can help me i'll be glad. Thx
From Eric (Sat Nov 13 19:03:00 1999 ):
My AE1-P seems to have a ravenous appetite for batteries. They only seem to last a max of two months. I can't see any indication that the camera is on. At 8 bucks a pop, this is getting expensive. Any suggestions?
From alvin s. granada (Sat Nov 13 15:48:24 1999 ):
I was wondering how you get the idea of matching the A2 winder with the New F1. I personally own quite a number of A series one with an A2 winder and a New F1 but no matter how i put it, it will practically will not couple with each other.
From leann (Sat Nov 13 07:40:32 1999 ):
help!! my ae-1P's finally bit the dust. the mirror is jammed and they repair people tell me the part isn't available anymore. any input on where to get a body only or how the new canon eos rebel 2000 measures up? i had the ae-1P for so many years i'm afraid of anything new!! thanx, lee
From George McGehrin, Jr (Sat Nov 13 05:56:59 1999 ):
I have an AE-1 and love it but I have a problem with my ASA dial. When I set it at 100 it locks ans stay but any speed past 100 the asa dial springs to 1600 or 3200. It is just a spring i suppose. Anyway, I've been to two places and they told me they have to service the camera, lube, etc. All I want is the spring to be replaced and nothing else. Does anyone know of some honest places in New York City that will do this? If so, leave me the name or address. My email is geospain@hotmail.com Thanks so much
From jim5618 (Thu Nov 11 06:03:21 1999 ):
Gilberto - I seriously doubt you will be able to find the magnet. I had the same problem on an AE-1 P and was able to correct it by cleaning the magnet contacts. If you take the bottom off they are easy to see. The hard part is getting to them to clean them.
From Fred Roberts (Thu Nov 11 01:53:36 1999 ):
After many 1000s of miles I finally managed to damage my A-1. The part I broke is called the "AT DIAL GUARD", its the thingy that protects the mode switch from getting moved by accident. Canon don't make this part no more! I'm looking for someone thats got a dead A1 lying around that might have this part available. (or someone that might have cornered the market in CANON A1 AT DIAL GUARDs) Its held on by 2 screws and is more cosmetic than anything. Many thanks! Fred
From SteveG (Thu Nov 18 21:18:36 1999 ):
Is there any body who knows about the canon 'cough' damper problem with A1's and how to cure it. canon parts ran out a long while ago. thanks
From paul (Thu Nov 18 14:47:57 1999 ):
Hey everybody, sorry about the typo. What i wanted to type was, will the Motor Drive MA work on the AE-1? ( long day )
From paul (Thu Nov 18 14:41:44 1999 ):
Can anybody tell me if I can use a Motor Drive M2 on my AE-1? Also does anyone know about black body AE-1s and AE-1 programs? The only info I have found claims they were grey market imports. Thanks
From Kevin (Thu Nov 18 12:38:49 1999 ):
Hey all, I own a Canon AE-1 Program. Thank you Terry, for all your help. My next roll of film turned out MUCH better then the last. (In case you've forgotten, you helped me with the flash/shutter speed setting about 2 weeks ago) Since everybody is on the topic of batteries, I would like to know if a low battery will affect picture quality. Kevin
From DucksRow (Thu Nov 18 01:05:32 1999 ):
Hi-I have an AL-1 with a broken battery door. Can anyone tell me where I could purchase a replacement door? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
From Terry Carraway (Wed Nov 17 04:51:32 1999 ):
LIBERTY - To open the battery door, you need to move the small lever at one side of the door towards the middle of the door. You must remove the action grip (piece that adds bulk to that part of the camera) first. To remove the action grio, just unscrew the screw. Dave - You can find screens for sale on eBay (www.ebay.com) every so often. Also Brite Screen does replacement screens with various setups (microprism, grids, etc.) and they are also brighter than stock. But they tend to cost a bit.
From Dave (Tue Nov 16 08:12:03 1999 ):
I desperately need to find out WHERE I can locate focusing screens for a Canon AE-1 Program camera. Can anyone help? I am in Delaware but would like any info anyone can give me on where to find one! Thanks.
From Jess Q Hill (Tue Nov 16 06:00:36 1999 ):
I am in need of a "film rewind crank" for my canon AE-1. Could anyone help me out with either a catalog to order it from, or maybe an e4xtra one they could spare? Thanks
From LIBERTY (Tue Nov 16 02:17:16 1999 ):
I located the battery chamber to my A-1 but have not figured out how to open it to replace the 6v silver oxide battery. Please advise.
From Bob Budesa (Mon Nov 15 23:52:04 1999 ):
First of all, great site! Lots of good info. Secondly, I recently acquired an AE-1, and would like to get a flash unit for it. I may have trouble finding any of the 133A, 155A etc flashes, so my question may be moot. But, does anyone know the difference between the 133, 155, 177, and all the other speedlite flashes? If I wanted to get a good all-around flash, which one should I try to acquire?

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