The Canon EF is a camera from Canon. It is an SLR camera from the Japanese company. It dates back to the 1970s.
The lenses of the Canon EF can be exchanged. For this purpose, a Canon FD bayonet was installed. The Canon EF does not have an autofocus function. The focus is adjusted by hand.
For photography, the Canon EF has a light meter. It is designed for films in a range from ISO 12 to ISO 3200. The metering of the correct exposure is done through the lens of the SLR. Both the desired exposure time and the aperture can be set by the user.
The special feature of the black camera is the shutter. It has a Copal shutter with vertically running metal apertures. This has mechanically timed speeds from 1/2 to 1/1000 of a second and electronically controlled speeds from 1 to 30 seconds.
In addition, the EF’s shutter supports a Bulb setting. In this, the shutter is open for a variable time. With the PC flash connector and hot shoe, the use of a flash is possible.
A thread for a tripod is built into the Canon EF. Additionally, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 14.7 x 9.6 x 4.8 cm. It weighs 760 grams.
Two 1.35 V mercury batteries are responsible for the power supply of the 35mm camera. Integrated into the camera is a voltage control circuit that allows the use of modern 1.5V batteries without the need for exposure correction.
Films for the Canon EF
The Canon EF is a 35mm camera and requires 35mm film. These are still easy to get today and are still being developed. Possible films for the Canon EF are the Kodak Portra 400* for color photos and the AgfaPhoto APX 400* for B&W photos.
The color film is processed using the C-41 process. C-41 films can be developed by most photo labs. Most drugstore chains in Germany offer the development of color films.
The Canon EF exposes an area of 24 mm x 36 mm. With this exposure area, at least 36 photos usually fit on one film (135-36). There is no automatic film transport. The film must be rewound by hand.
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 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x 1.35 V mercury batteries |
| Size | 14,7 x 9,6 x 4,8 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.79 x 3.78 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 760 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 113,52 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 98 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 91,31 Euro (98.50 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 94,54 Euro (101.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 122,10 Euro (132.05 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon EF
Is the Canon EF camera automatic or manual?
The Canon EF is a manual camera. It doesn't have autofocus; you adjust the focus yourself. You also set the shutter speed and aperture manually.
What kind of batteries does this vintage camera use?
Originally, it used two 1.35V mercury batteries. However, it has a voltage regulator, allowing the use of modern 1.5V batteries without needing adjustments.
How many pictures can I take on one roll of film with the Canon EF?
A standard 35mm film roll (135-36) typically holds 36 exposures. Remember, it's a manual film advance, so you'll have to wind the film after each shot.
Can I use a flash with my Canon EF?
Yes, the camera has a PC flash sync port and a hot shoe, allowing the use of external flash units. This enhances shooting possibilities in low light.
What size are the photos I'll get from this 35mm camera?
The Canon EF is a 35mm camera, meaning each photo will be 24mm x 36mm. This is a classic film format still available today.