Canon AL-1

The Canon AL-1 is a 35mm camera. It is an SLR camera of the Canon A series. It was introduced in 1982 and is the last model of the series.

The lenses of the Canon AL-1 can be exchanged. For this purpose, a Canon FD bayonet was built into the camera. The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 is often found on the 35mm photo camera. The Canon AL-1 does not have an autofocus. However, a novelty on this model was the focus support (Quick Focus). This function shows in the viewfinder whether the subject is in focus. However, the lens still has to be rotated.

The Canon AL-1 is equipped with a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 25 to ISO 1600, and the exposure metering is done through the lens. The Canon AL-1 has an automatic exposure control, more precisely an aperture priority.

The exposure time range is from 1/1000 s to 2 s. The shutter speeds are controlled electronically. In manual mode, only the speeds from 1/1000 s to 1/15 s (in one aperture increments) can be used. The 35 mm camera has a Bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter can remain open for a variable time and expose the film.

Hot-shoe flashes can be used with the Canon AL-1. There is also a PC flash socket.

The camera has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a port for a cable release and a thread for a tripod on the bottom. The camera weighs in at 14.2 x 8.7 x 4.8 cm. The dimensions are 490 grams. The power supply of the 35mm camera is provided by two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).

Films for the Canon AL-1

What is needed for the Canon AL-1 is 35mm film. The 35mm format is very common, so even today there are some manufacturers and many developing labs. Possible films for this model are the Kodak Portra 160* and the Ilford HP5*.

The image area of the captured images on the negative are 24mm x 36mm. Thus, at least 36 shots fit on a normal film. The film is manually wound to the next photo.