The Canon TLb is an SLR camera. The 35mm camera was designed as an entry-level camera and produced by Canon. It was sold in 1974, and two years later photographers in Canon's home country, Japan, could also purchase the model.
In principle, the camera is very similar to the Canon FTb. To reduce costs, for example, the self-timer was omitted, the shortest exposure time is only 1/500 second and the flash shoe can only be used to attach a flash. A similar budget model is the Canon TX, which appeared later.
The lens of the Canon TLb is interchangeable. Lenses with a Canon FD bayonet are usable with the camera. Most often, you'll meet the 35mm camera with the Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 SC. The focus of the lens has to be adjusted manually. There is no autofocus system.
The 35mm camera has a built-in light meter. This is designed for an ISO range of 25 to 2000. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure by metering through the lens (TTL). Both the desired exposure time and the aperture can be set by the user.
There is a bulb mode for long exposures. The use of an external flash is possible via the PC flash socket.
The 35mm camera has a connection for a cable release. There is also a thread for a tripod. With a size of 14.4 x 9.3 x 4.3 cm, the Canon TLb weighs 680 grams. Power is supplied by a 1.35 V mercury battery.
Films for the Canon TLb
The Canon TLb is a 35mm camera and requires 35mm film. 35mm film is still readily available today and is developed by most photo labs. A good choice for color photography, for example, is Kodak Ultramax 400*. If you want to stay monochrome, the Kodak T-Max 400* is not bad.
Color film is developed using the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most labs. Most drugstore chains in Germany offer color film development.
