Canon AT-1

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*).