The Canon AT-1 is a Japanese SLR camera. It was introduced in 1977 and built by Canon in Japan.
The SLR was designed to offer a competitively priced camera model in some overseas markets. The design of the Canon AT-1 is based on the popular AE-1, but in order to lower the price somewhat, some features were omitted. For example, the AT-1, which was never sold in Canon’s home market of Japan, does not have an automatic exposure system. However, it is compatible with the accessories for the AE-1.
The lens of the Canon AT-1 is interchangeable. For this purpose, a Canon FD bayonet was installed. In most cases it was sold with the Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 SC. The Canon AT-1 has no autofocus. Therefore, you have to focus by hand.
The Canon AT-1 is equipped with a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 25 to ISO 3200. The metering of the exposure takes place through the lens on the 35mm camera (TTL) and is indicated by a needle in the viewfinder. The measured exposure must then be set on the camera itself.
A Bulb mode is available for long exposures. The use of a flash is possible with the PC flash connector and the hot shoe.
Films for the Canon AT-1
The Canon AT-1 requires photographic film to take pictures. More precisely, 35mm films are needed. 35mm films are still produced by various manufacturers. Possible films for the camera are the Kodak Portra 400* for color photos and the Ilford HP5* for B&W images.
The color film is processed using the C-41 process. The C-41 process is standardized and offered by most developing labs. For example, you can take your film to most drug stores for development.
The Canon AT-1 has a thread for a tripod and cable release. It also has a self-timer. The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 14.1 x 8.7 x 4.8 cm. The weight is 590 grams. The camera requires four LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
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 FD lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 2 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 14,1 x 8,7 x 4,8 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.55 x 3.43 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 590 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 131,18 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 26 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 103,47 Euro (111.49 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 122,00 Euro (132.05 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 133,98 Euro (143.96 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon AT-1
Is the Canon AT-1 an automatic camera?
No, the Canon AT-1 doesn't have automatic exposure. You need to manually set the exposure based on the built-in light meter's reading. It's a manual focus camera as well.
What kind of film does this camera use?
It uses 35mm film, both color and black and white. Many brands are compatible, like Kodak Portra or Ilford HP5.
How do I take long exposure shots with the AT-1?
The Canon AT-1 has a bulb mode for long exposures. This allows you to keep the shutter open for as long as you hold the button.
Can I use a flash with this camera?
Yes, it has both a PC flash sync and a hot shoe connection, so you can attach and use external flash units.
What's the weight of the camera body?
The camera body weighs 590 grams without the lens. It's relatively lightweight and easy to handle.