The Canon TL QL is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras and was introduced in 1968. It was designed as a simplified version of the Canon FT QL. Thus, the self-timer was omitted and the shortest exposure time is 1/500 second.
The Canon TL QL comes with interchangeable lenses. Lenses with a Canon FL bayonet can be used with the camera. The lens is focused manually. The reflex camera does not have an autofocus system.
For measuring the exposure, the Canon TL QL has a light meter. The light meter is built for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 2000.
Both the desired exposure time and the aperture can be set by the user. There is no automatic exposure control.
The fastest shutter speed of the is 1/500 s, in other cameras of the series it is 1/1000 s. The Canon TL QL also has a Bulb setting. In this mode, the cloth shutter curtain stays open as long as the shutter button is held down. An external flash can be used via the PC flash socket.
The Canon TL QL has a thread for a tripod and cable release. The power needed for the camera comes from a 1.3V mercury battery.
Films for the Canon TL QL
What is needed for the Canon TL QL is 35mm film. 35mm film is still made today and is fairly easy to get. For black and white images in 35mm format, the Ilford Delta 100* is a good choice. For color images, you can reach for the Agfaphoto Vista 200*.
The exposure area of the SLR has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. With this size, at least 36 photos usually fit on one film (135-36). The film must be rewound manually. The Canon QL (Quick Load) function helps when loading the film.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Canon FL lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 2000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/55 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x 1.3 V mercury battery |
| Estimated value / Used price | 52,24 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 11, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 64,00 Euro (69.27 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon TL QL
Is this camera easy to use for a beginner?
The Canon TL QL is a manual camera, so it requires some learning. It lacks automatic features like autofocus and automatic exposure, but its simple design makes it manageable once you understand the basics.
What kind of lens does the camera use?
It uses interchangeable lenses with a Canon FL bayonet mount. You'll need to find lenses compatible with this mount. Remember, focusing is manual, so you'll need to adjust the lens yourself.
How do I take long exposure photos with this device?
The Canon TL QL has a bulb setting. This allows you to keep the shutter open as long as you hold down the shutter release button, letting you capture long exposures.
Does it have a built-in light meter?
Yes, the Canon TL QL has a built-in light meter designed for films with ISO sensitivities from 25 to 2000. This helps you determine the correct shutter speed and aperture settings.
What type of film does this camera use?
This 35mm camera uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white 35mm films are readily available and easy to find.