The Canon EOS Elan II is a single lens reflex camera. It is the predecessor of the Canon EOS Elan 7E. The 35mm camera was also available on the market under the name “Canon EOS 50“. A similar model is the “Canon EOS Elan IIE“. This model comes with an eye controlled autofocus.
The Canon EOS Elan II offers the possibility of interchangeable lenses. This is made possible by the EF bayonet. Focusing is facilitated by a built-in autofocus.
The camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films in a range from ISO 6 to ISO 6400. The correct sensitivity is determined by the DX code on the film cartridge.
With the 35mm SLR, exposure is measured through the lens (TTL). The aperture and exposure time are set fully automatically from the 35mm SLR in program mode. However, both the desired f-number and the exposure time can also be set by the user.
The camera comes with a bulb mode. The regular shutter speeds range from 1/4000 second to 30 seconds.
In low light conditions the built-in flash can be used. An external flash can be fired via the built-in hot shoe. The Canon EOS Elan II has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod.
The required power for the camera comes from a 6V 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*). This type of battery is still easy to get.
Films for the Canon EOS Elan II
The Canon EOS Elan II uses 35mm film. This type of film is still in production and can be processed by most photo labs without any problems. A recommendation of this camera are the Kodak Gold 200* and for b/w pictures the AgfaPhoto APX 400*.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. This development process is carried out by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. For example, you can give your films to most drugstores for development.
The film transport is automatic. The motor manages up to 2.5 frames per second. At the end of the roll, it naturally rewinds the film back into the cartridge.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Canon EF mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/4000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 6 to 6400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,5EV to) |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Estimated value / Used price | 138,61 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 22 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 120,61 Euro (129.89 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 138,26 Euro (149.37 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 153,15 Euro (165.61 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon EOS Elan II
What kind of film does this camera use?
The Canon EOS Elan II uses standard 35mm film. These are still readily available and easily developed at most photo labs. Both color and black and white films work well.
How does the camera focus?
It has an autofocus system, making focusing easy. There's also an eye-controlled autofocus option on a similar model, the Elan IIE. You can also manually adjust the focus.
Can I use a flash with it?
Yes, it has a built-in flash for low-light situations. It also features a hot shoe for attaching an external flash if you need more power.
Does the camera have automatic settings?
Yes, it offers a fully automatic program mode that sets both aperture and shutter speed. However, you can also manually control both if you prefer.