Canon AE-1 User manual

The Canon AE-1 was the first 35mm SLR
camera to be controlled solely via a built-in
Central Processing Unit (CPU) and made
SLR photography available to beginners and
amateurs at a reasonable prices - with a record
of over 5 million units been sold worldwide,
the success of which firmly established Canon
as the leader in camera innovations.
It revolutionized many of the concepts for future camera designs especially in the field of
electronic applications and mass produced technique with a lower cost of production with the
use of plastic injection molding, resulting in simpler assembly of parts. It also popularized and
made devices like Power Winder and electronic Speedlites a household name in the consumer
market. The camera was controlled entirely by electronics precision rather than by mechanical
functions - and depends solely on battery power for all of its functions. Despite defying the
mainstream camera design concept in the '70s, the AE-1 came through well and attained a
huge during its availability years. This was very much due to Canon's efforts in promoting the
camera - it offers very precise and stable timing of shutter speeds, which was also extended to
other areas like auto flash-synchronization speed when any dedicated Canon electronic
Speedlites is used. Although the technologies employed within the AE-1 looked very simple
when compared with today's modern SLR cameras, it has to be remembered that during its
era, the market was still dominated largely by those heavy, mechanically-controlled type of
cameras. Canon used these points to enhance the advantages of electronic applications in
camera designs - where in many areas, electronic cameras do offer much more precise timings
and other features that can never be matched by mechanical technologies.
However, the AE-1 was not in anyway a professional-grade SLR as compared to the Canon F-
1. It was generally regarded as a classic and top amateur SLR model due to the impact it has
created with its then innovative concept that went on to influence other future camera designs,
both Canon and other makes, of the industry as a whole. The camera was eventually replaced
by a newer model with added features, the AE-1 Program in 1981, following on the success of
Canon's semi-pro and top-of-the-line A-series camera, the multi-mode Canon A-1, which
made its debut in 1978.

Characteristics 1. Total Automatic System with a built-in CPU (Central Processing Unit), the
first 35mm SLR camera in the world to do so.
2. Shutter Speed Priority AE Camera Good for Fast Breaking Action. With Less Chance of
Camera Shake. 3. Compact and Lightweight Design Facilitating Mobility and Handling Ease.
4. Continuous Shooting with Power Winder A.
5. AE (Automatic Exposure) Computer Flash Unit, Speedlite 155A - world's first Dedicated
autoflash.
6. Full Use of Canon FD Lenses.
CANON AE-1's MAIN FEATURES
1. Very Little Battery Consumption.
The battery lasts the equivalent of 20,000 shutter releases or one year under normal use.
Usable Batteries
Silver Oxide Battery (6V) Eveready (UCAR) No. 544 JIS 4G13, Mallory PX28
Alkaline Manganese
Battery (6V) Eveready (UCAR No.537, Mallory 7K13
2. Convenient Finger Grip Bar.
3. Battery Check Button.
OK if the meter needle rests below the index. Without sufficient battery power, a safety
mechanism will prevent the shutter release. This button also serves to cancel the self-timer

operation.
4. Electromagnetic Shutter Release Button
Activated by a Very Smooth Touch. Two-step shutter button. Light metering is activated by
the halfway depression and shutter release by the further depression.
5. Immediate Response Metering. Light metering takes only 0.001 sec. at EV 12.
6. Shutter Speed Priority AE Camera.
High mobility. Less chance of camera shake. Effective for fast breaking action.
7. Compact and Lightweight Design.
590g (20-13/16 ozs.) body only. 790g (27-7/8 ozs.) with the 50mm f/1.8 S.C. Iens. 895g (31-
9/16 ozs.) with the 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. Iens.
8. Design Based on Human Engineering Technique.
Rounded back contours and large operational parts that fit to hand. Finger grip bar. Film
advance with 120° throw. One finger operation.
9. Other Features.
Interchangeable back cover.
Memo holder.
Backlight control switch.
Electronic self-timer. But up to the mid-'70s, electronics control and applications
in SLR cameras were still limited, for example, where the
mechanical designs were largely responsible for much of the
operations. But the AE-1 was the first camera in the world
to incorporate a CPU (Central Processing Unit) which
enabled automatic exposure, memory transmission of
signals, display, regulation of time and completion signal
are all electronically controlled.
All these were packed in a economical price range - it is an entirely new kind of SLR camera
during that time. Canon AE-1 was massed produced with new manufacturing and assembling
techniques even though it had made its debut during an economic slump. The high degree of
automation was not been restricted only to the camera. It was extended to the various
accessories, all with the same standard of precision. The AE-1 was also the first camera to
offer a totally automated electronic photographic system. It takes its name, AE-1 (Automatic
Exposure-One), 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 'most advanced' available electronic
technologies during the seventies (Although it may sound pretty much outdated when
compared with today's electronics standard), and after a thorough analysis of all the
mechanisms and their operations. 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, display and regulate required information -
in certain ways, unmatched by mechanical mechanism especially where the precise timing of
the shutter speeds and electronic flash compatibility.
The (Integrated Injection Logic), as far as its application in photography is concerned, was the
most outstanding achievement in the field of electronics during the early and mid-'70s. 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 converter, and the proper interfaces, together with their
constructions and arrangements in modular form, represent the technological breakthroughs in
camera design and made mass production possible, which in turn, made photography more
affordable to the general consumers.
Exceptional Reliability through Application of Electronics The Canon AE-1, since it
employed computer technology and its overall design was based on electronics, opened the
doors to a new age in the camera world. In order to make an inter-related package out of all
the inner mechanisms and to automate 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, manufacturing and finishing
processes. In a way, the AE-1 has influenced (and inspired) many other manufacturers to look
into the application of plastic materials in camera manufacturing to reduce costs of
production. Although the Canon AE-1 has shinny metallic finishing and even sounds like a
metal when you used your finger to knock on its shell, in reality, it was a clever use of a
production technique with an underlying coating of Iron Oxide beneath the plastic which gave
it such a similar metallic feel. But the key essential parts like the lens mount, had used metal
as the prime material. But undeniably, the modular construction of the camera allowed
acceleration in its production with the more uniformed quality control..
Flexible Substrate of the
Canon AE-1 (integrated Injection Logic) High grade of LSI technique used. Equivalent to three chips of IC consisting of more than 1,000 elements.
By using new production methods and the adoption of highly advanced packaging techniques
in the manufacture of electronics circuitry, the vital parts were completely sealed to keep out
dust and humidity and reduce the effects of temperature. The IC and resistance circuits were
built as units. Not only was the wiring streamlined to increase efficiency, but also the new
modular joints and all other main parts were completely sealed to obtain the best possible
weather proofing (but it was not a water proof camera).
Interface Interface as a common boundary of mechanics and electronics. Three magnets: 1)
For camera function start, 2) For AE aperture control, 3) For second shutter curtain control
were used to enhance reliability and precision which provides a matching precision assured by

ball bearings. While combination of permanent magnet and electromagnet which use very
little battery consumption and the omission of holding mechanisms.
Shutter Priority Automatic exposure (AE) System Canon's earlier screw mount models, the
EX EE (1969) and EX AUTO (1972) have already offered Shutter-priority AE in their
exposure control system while the FD lenses, which also used the famed breech-lock mount
(but with auto-diaphragm) as found in the FL-type lenses, were introduced along with the
Canon F-1 in 1971. It was still too early to see an SLR model exploring the potential benefits
of what the 'new' and sophisticated breech lock mount system these FD lenses can offer.
The AE-1, which has a Shutter-priority AE system that can automatically decides the correct
diaphragm opening of the lens you are using according to the light the subject is reflecting,
based on the shutter speed that has been previously set. This is the meaning of shutter speed
priority. The pins and structures of all FD lenses allows the AE-1 to couple with the functions
of the Shutter speed priority AE.
Therefore, as you compose the picture, you can freely choose the shutter speed that
corresponded 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 functions, a technological feat since such a design has
never been realized previously by the other manufacturers. As opposed to the conventional
mechanical systems, it serves as a switch to turn the electronic circuitry on or off, and

operates magnetically, in order to make the shutter release extremely fast and smooth.
The design of the shutter release button also uses the sequential electric supply ON and OFF.
Power is sequentially switched on-off only when the shutter button is depressed and this
minimized power consumption. Furthermore, it decreased harmful electric noises.
Immediate Response Metering From light metering to exposure setting, all the functions are
electronically controlled. With this astounding, revolutionary system, the very instant the
shutter button is pressed, the electronic brain (CPU) immediately computes the photographic
information and produces the- operating command. Light metering takes place at a speed
impossible to attain with other cameras. In EV 1 lighting conditions, light metering takes but
only 0.04 sec. With other features like exposure compensation button for an even more
precise control of AE photography, there were plenty of ways that can be used to handle
automatic exposures without the need to worry about inaccuracies in metering and exposure
timing. The shutter button activates light metering and shutter release in succession and
practically simultaneously.
Instantaneous response. 0.001 sec. at EV 12 (1/125 sec., f/5.6)
0.04 sec. at EV 1 (1 sec., f/1.4)
An Electronic Brain for Instantaneous Control For the first time in the world, this camera
adopts a system based on (Integrated Injection Logic) technology, the most advanced
electronic development applicable to photography during that time. The electronic brain
(CPU) controls all functions something no other similar class of camera offered during that
period.
Silicon Photocell and Logarithmic Amplifier In A Single IC The SPC (silicon photocell) is well known for its
outstanding photo-sensitive characteristics which yields greater responsiveness with greater linearity (straight
line characteristic) and a wider metering range.
The SPC cell, housed near the eyepiece, has a logarithmic amplifier and a special,
immediate response circuit, integrated 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 (almost 556
rolls of 36-exposure film) in continuous photography, or one year under normal use.
Compact, Light weight Design for Great Handling Ease Although still consider bulkier
when compared with compact SLR cameras such as the Olympus OM-1, but within the Canon
line, the body dimensions have been reduced as compared with other models such as Canon
F-1, and the lightweight structure, with a special finger grip and rounded back contours,
provides great handling ease.
Automatic Film Winding with the Canon Power winder A

There is no doubt that AE-1 has helped Canon shoot to the top as a major
35mm SLR camera manufacturer, with some original ideas such as
automatic film advance devices using a power winder, a convenient and
economical accessory in photography. The Power Winder A, extremely
easy to attach, enables the AE-1 to photograph continuously 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 Benefiting with the CAT
system used in the professional F-1 model, a new automatic flash system was refined from the
earlier technology used, in which a dedicated flash unit, like 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 automatically set (1/60 sec) and the aperture automatically
determined. After the flash, the camera returns to its original AE setting.
Data Imprinting Mechanism The film back of the AE-1 is a removable part. The Data Back
A, an optional accessory when attached in place of the AE-1's normal back cover, can directly
imprint the date and other information on the negative or slide film 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. However, there was a little mistake made when the design was adopted, nothing
relative to mechanical or electronic flaws - but an oversight which Canon didn't expect that
the databack will be so 'lasting' - the input numerals for the 'year' on the first control wheel
was provided until the year of 1987 only.
However, if compared with the Databack produced by competing manufacturers like Nikon's
MF-12 for the FE, where the LCD version has digits that lasts until the year 2019, the Canon
has some advantages by way of its Roman numerals from I to X, some used it to solve the
problem, of which current years could be indicated by the Roman numeral for the second
digit. The second wheel can be used for months, but also has numbers from 1 up to 31 as well
as letters from A to G. The third wheel has numbers from 0 to 31. As with the other earlier
databacks, you need to plug a short cable which came from the left-hand side of the Data
Back A into the PC terminal socket on the AE-1 camera for proper operation. Well, if you
wish to use the Data Back A and a non-hot shoe flash at the same time, you must plug the PC
cord from the flash into the PC socket on the Data Back A.

The advantage of having an interchangeable lens ability is the large collection of used
FD Lenses The theoretically long lasting and “wearless” breech-locked mount FD lenses are
one of the key outcome of the application in first rated electronics technology in the field of
optics. Their image sharpness and color reproduction abilities are of extremely high standard.
Canon offered a full array of interchangeable lenses ranging from the 7.5mm fisheye to the
1200mm super telephoto, totaling as many as 55 lenses including the special purpose lenses
up to the time when the whole line-up was slated for discontinuation. That was another reason
why the AE-1 was so successful commercially, as the general public was able to experience
the thrill and excitement of lens interchangeability in SLR photography. But as a new user to
SLR photography, if you have little intention to upgrade, the 'abandoned' FD lens-based SLR
camera like the AE-1, with the huge pool of resources available in the used market presents a
really attractive alternative if your budget is tight. But if you intend to grow with the system
and migrated to autofocus or action related photography in the future, I do have a little
reservation to invest into the manual focus FD system. But as I said, photography is not all
about autofocus and the medium is not as economical and regarded as an cheap 'hobby' as
compared with the early days of manual focus photography, the AE-1 still possesses some
charm that can be considered as a good and logical entry.
If you have owned or purchase a AE-1, these are few essential but relatively easy steps for
you to setup your camera to take pictures (Section one for the camera, section two when you
are using it with flash and lastly, with a auto film advance device like the dedicated Auto
Winder). If you intend to understand more about the details, please read through the whole
site for other related content to fully explore the potential this camera can offer you.
Basic Setup Steps for Camera Operations
1.Set the aperture ring of the lens to the"A" mark. 2. Load the battery.
3. Load the film. 4. Set the ASA film speed. Select a shutter speed.
5. Look into the viewfinder Compose the picture and focus. 6. Advance film; Check exposure. Press the shutter button.

Photography with earlier flash unit 155A automatic Flash photography (Or any dedicated
flash units by Canon)
1. Load the batteries. 2. Set the ASA film speed 3. Mount the Speedlite 155A
(Or equivalent) onto the camera 4. Turn the main swittch5. Set the AUTO/MANUAL switch
6. Focus, compose and press the shutter button to take the picture.
Photography with the Canon Power Winder A
1. Remove the Battery Pack A.
2. Load the batteries into the Battery Pack A.
3. Attach the Battery Pack A to the Power Winder A.
4. Take off the winder coupler cover.
5. Attach the Power Winder A to the AE-1.
6. Turn the main switch on.
7. Focus and press the shutter button.
Preliminary Preparation for AE-1
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.
1. Mounting the Lens onto the camera
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 photography 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.
3. Loading the Battery
This camera will not function without battery power. A 6V silver
oxide or alkaline 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 is 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
unloaded more easily when the lens is dismounted.
The battery should last for approximately one year under normal use.
Check on other section with specifications of the battery when the
camera is used in extremely cold conditions.
4: Checking the Battery
Since the AE-1 is an electronically controlled 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.
When the camera is used in extremely cold conditions.
Usable Batteries: Silver Oxide Battery (6V ) (Eveready (UCAR) No.544, JIS 4G
13, Mallory PX 28; Alkaline Manganese Battery (6V) (Eveready (UCAR) No.537,
Mallory 7K l 3)
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
p
ower 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 needle 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.
5. Loading the Film The Canon AE-1 uses color or black and white film in standard 35mm
cartridges. Since this is a 25 years old camera, you can't expect it is as convenient as today's
modern SLR with nifty feature such as Auto DX coding , auto film advance and power
rewind. Most of this procedures have to handle them manually.

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.
An optional accessory, Canon Data Back A, a recording device for
imprinting data such as the day, month and year, can be attached to the
AE-1 in place of the standard back cover.
How to Load the Film Note: ALWAYS 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 advance lever and wind the film around the take-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
p
roper 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. The shutter curtain is a most delicate and fragile part in the camera, a deformed
shutter curtain may result in a permanent damage and since the AE-1 may not have any
support in replacement parts from Canon, always handle loading and unloading of film roll
carefully.

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 ISO Film Speed
After loading the film, set the ISO film speed according to the ISO speed
of the film in use.
To set the ISO, first push the film advance lever out to its 30° stand-off position away from
the camera body, then lift up the ISO ring around the shutter dial and rotate it in either
direction until the proper number is aligned with the green index mark. ISO is a numerical
rating of a film's sensitivity to light. A higher ISO number indicates a faster film which is
more sensitive to light. On the other hand, a lower ISO number indicates a slower film which
is less sensitive to light. The ISO rating recommended by the manufacturer is printed on the
film box, e.g., ISO 100.
The following ISO ratings can be set on the camera. Figures in
p
arentheses indicate intermediate film speeds.
ISO 25 | 32 | 40 | 50 | 64 | 80 | 100 | 125 | 160 | 200 | 250 | 320 | 400 |
500 | 640 | 800 | 1000 | 1250 | 1600 | 2000 | 2500 | 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. Personally, I used the memo holder to put an ID-size
p
hoto of my girlfriend.

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 diaphragm 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 accomplished 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.
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 depressing 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. Note: 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.
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 depressing 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. 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.
Operation for General Photography 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. Even most of the models in Canon's EOS System of AF cameras have this
shooting mode a standard feature. 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.
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
approximately 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 oran
g
e) 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 shutter speed
cannot be set on the dial.
Rotated between "B" and "1000".
Brightness Shutter Speed
(Seconds)
Indoor 1/30 sec to 1/60 sec
Outdoor 1/125 sec to 1/1000 sec
Mid-summer Beach Snow-covered
Mountains 1/500 sec to 1/1000
a) Selecting the Shutter Speed Shutter speed is determined in accordance 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 guide to help you select an appropriate shutter speed when using a standard
50mm lens. For indoor photography, with no special illumination, choose 1/30 of a second
and 1/60 of a second in a brightly lit room.
For out door 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 midsummer 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 obtain sharp images. For
example, when using a 200mm telephoto 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.
b) 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 viewfinder 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.
When the underexposure warning lamp inside the viewfinder blinks, or when the meter needle
moves into the upper overexposure 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.
c) 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
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.
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 accessories: +3, +2, +1.5,
+1, +0.5, 0, - 0.5, -2, - 3, - 4 (diopters).
Accessories such as an eyecup, dioptric adjustment lenses, angle finders, and magnifier can be attached to the
viewfinder eyepiece.
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.
Note: 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, macrophotography, and
p
hotomicrography. 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 magnification 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.
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 middle 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.

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
concentrate on the actual picture you are going to take without worrying about exposure
differences 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 particularly 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
p
rotected, any exposure to light will "fog" the film and cause a drastic
color shift and loss of picture image.
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 knob. 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.

Double-Check Before Shooting If you hurry to release the shutter, you may make an
unexpected error due to carelessness. The following points should be double checked:
1) Is the aperture ring of the lens se to the "A" mark?
Press in the EE lock pin while turning the aperture ring to the "A" mark. This specific setting
is a requisite for beautiful color pictures with automatic exposure. If you fail to adjust the
aperture ring to this setting when appropriate, the correct automatic exposure will not be
obtained. When the aperture ring of the lens is not set to the "A" mark, the manual aperture
control "M" signal above the aperture scale in the viewfinder flash has on and off as a warning
that the aperture ring is not set at the "A" setting.
2) Did you set the film speed properly?
It is necessary to set the film speed properly according to the film in use in order to obtain the
correct exposure.
3) Is the film properly loaded?
You can use the rewind knob as an indicator that the perforations of the film are properly
engaged on the sprocket and the film is actually advancing. Every time you advance the film,
the rewind knob should turn.
Detailed Operation of the AE-1
A silicon photocell is used as the photosensitive element in the camera. If you compare the
silicon photocell (SPC) with other existing photo-sensitive 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 developed a special circuit for
instantaneous light metering, Due to this innovation, even in place as dark as EV1 (at ISO
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 provided 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.