Canon A1 Film Camera Guide For Dummies

[@MrSnapperDog]

I bought my A1 in 1980 and took 100s of pictures with it. In 1982, I married and a few years later, my wife didn’t like taking pictures with the A1 because she had to manually focus. The Rebel came out and I traded my A1 and lenses for an auto focus Rebel. Eventually digital cameras came out and the Rebel fell into disuse. I recently purchased a Nikon Z50 which I love. In January, my son passed from Covid (at 30)… while going through his things, I found that he had an A1… I had no idea that he had it. Now I have an A1 again and I plan on using it in his memory. My next purchase will be a film developing kit so I can develop the exposed film. I already have the hardware to scan the negatives.

[@PhilUKNet]

I'm so sorry to hear about your son. As a parent myself I can think of nothing worse than losing a child. My sincere condolences. The A1 had quite a good run before autofocus took over. Not so the T90. That was a truly amazing camera, but even when it was new there were already AF cameras and these soon dominated. Years ago, my brother developed his own film. It didn't seem too bad doing B/W, but color was a lot trickier. Doing your own developing gives you complete control over the creative process. The problem for me with two young children is lack of time! Thanks for your comment.

[@Tsuan]

That’s mad love 🖤

[@gemmahayley]

I've been using my A1 for almost 20 years and I've finally learned what some of the buttons do! This is an excellent and clear video thank you! I load my film differently but as long as it works there's no wrong way!

[@PhilUKNet]

That's very kind of you Gemma, your comment is much appreciated 🙂 I'm not sure how you load your film but, as you say, if the end result is the same it doesn't matter. Happy shooting!

[@Tenskwatawa4U]

True. He's a very good explainer. I was shooting 35mm rangefinder cameras back in the 1960s, and I had to learn a lot of this stuff on my own, sometimes through trial and error, also through photography magazines such as MODERN PHOTOGRAPHY. I was processing my own black and white film and making prints in the bathroom whilst my proud parents suffered - we only had one bathroom! I was also a photographer for my high school yearbook, and processed and printed in an on-site darkroom. You're doing a fantastic job explaining all this. I'm looking at A-1 cameras online and I'm going to buy one pretty soon, so your video fills in a lot of the questions I have. I sold all my gear during a hard period about 8 or 9 years ago, and concentrated on iPhone photography. Now I'm getting the film itch once again. I do have an EOS Elan IIe which needs a new lens, but looks like it's in working order otherwise. Thanks for the great video!

[@phantomangelfire08]

Came here to say this! Been shooting with this camera for about a year, but I learned a new thing or two 😂

[@RobertoDiBenedetto-tm8jy]

Phil proceeds to roast our ass before educating us in the most articulate way. Phil is a treasure.

[@PhilUKNet]

Not sure that ass-roasting was my intention, but thanks for the compliment!

[@vileCR999]

DUDE, I LOVE YOU SOOOOO MUCH!!! ❤️❤️❤️ I recently inherited my late brother's A-1 and this video was EVERY SINGLE THING I wanted to know! Even down to the little side buttons! You're the hero we need.

[@PhilUKNet]

LOL! I can feel the love. Thank you. It's not every day I receive comments like this. Happy shooting 😃

[@CptLehat]

Just picked up an A1 as a complete novice! This video was excellent, thorough but concise, really appreciate your knowledge. Looking forward to taking her out for some shots! I'm sure i'll be coming back to this video time and time again as I learn, very informative, thank you

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! People get bored with KZbin videos quickly so I need to go through the content quite quickly. Sometimes I want to take longer to explain, but it is necessary to try to strike a balance. I made a previous video about the A1, but left out a few things. In this one I think I covered everything and my target audience was complete novice level. If you do have any questions, feel free to ask. There's no such thing as a stupid question!

[@dubtastic]

I have my father's Canon A-1 and stumbled across this video looking for an explanation as to how to do multiple exposures. Totally blown away at how in-depth and helpful this is. I even bookmarked this to come back to it later on. It is a video that I wish I had when first given the camera. Thank you so much for taking the time to do it.

[@PhilUKNet]

Hi Jason, you're most welcome and thank you for your kind comments! I'd done a video previously and forgotten a few points, so I thought I'd make another (this one) to include the omissions. It didn't actually take long. Some other videos I've made have taken a lot longer. If you have any questions feel free to ask!

[@jasschramm4592]

This honestly is the best tutorial I’ve seen. Been using my camera wrong this whole time 😂😅

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you 🙂

[@madgazo]

same here !!

[@TheOlympia75]

How were you using it wrong. I think I may be as well

[@veritymckenna2422]

I just bought a canon A1 and its the most complex film camera I’ve had yet, so I watched the original video and the for dummies one! I found both really helpful in getting to know the A1! Thanks a lot 🐢

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! It seems complex at first, but actually it's very basic. I wasn't intending doing a 2nd video, but I realized that a really simple version was necessary and also it was an opportunity to include the bits I forgot in the first video. Glad you found it useful!

[@syedbrothers1824]

I want to sell my A1 camera

[@diamondk4648]

The accuracy within the first 2 seconds lol I know nothing about photography and I am inheriting my dads camera that he used taking pictures of me my whole childhood lol ❤ thank you for this tutorial

[@PhilUKNet]

You're most welcome! Your Dad had excellent taste. Hopefully, you inherited a few nice lenses as well 🙂

[@aristabooyse3685]

I have just been gifted with 2 A1s from two dear family friends and I am so thankful for this video! My sister and I can't wait to start snapping away.

[@PhilUKNet]

You're very fortunate! I get comments from people desperate to get a good A1, but they can't find one. I hope you were gifted a few good FD lenses too 😉

[@aristabooyse3685]

@@PhilUKNet wow I didn't know they were so popular. They have been in storage for years, so some of the lenses has a mold grown inside. The 50mm lens unfortunately has mold. I am hoping to send it off for a clean, buy I live in Botswana, Africa so I might not be able too. Very very thankful for my friends generosity.

[@PhilUKNet]

@@aristabooyse3685 Me neither. I made videos about the Canon A1 and T90. The T90 also uses FD manual focus lenses and is FAR superior to the A1. However, the T90 video gets very views. Conversely, the A1 video gets lots of views. It has surprised me. Good luck getting your lenses cleaned. If gear is stored in a high humidity environment, mold is often a problem.

[@iTriguy1]

I am one of those who does know quite a lot about photography but have almost inclusively used Nikon cameras from the mid 90s to today. I have recently inherited a Canon A-1 with a few lenses and want to take it around and get aquianted with shooting film again. Getting an overview of how this camera works is still helpful.

[@PhilUKNet]

@iTriguy1 I'm pleased you found it helpful. I have always used Canon and would be lost with a Nikon!

[@terryhollis6866]

I bought a A-1at a thrift store ($5) and spent way too much time trying to figure it out... this was so helpful and I found out that it was fully functional and that the battery was still good! Thank you!

[@PhilUKNet]

Wow! Five bucks for a fully functional A1. Great deal!

[@donriedthaler3212]

I bought a Canon AE-1 many moons ago, like 40 years ago, now that I am retired am trying to get back into film photography, so bought two used Canon cameras, a Canon A-1 and a Canon AE-1 , and had to go on the internet to find out how they work as neither camera came with a lens but after watching your picture show, I am pretty well aware I can manage everything on my own, keep up the good work, will be back if I run into a problem

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks, and good luck sorting both cameras out!

[@tomdelisle8955]

RIP Uncle Henry, thanks for the great camera.

[@PhilUKNet]

LOL! Thank you!

[@badgerrun8771]

Bought an A 1 today at a rummage sale from the original purchaser from 1979. Came with the 50 mil, 80 to 200mil lens, auto winder and some extras. All paperwork original that came with it and a leather carrying case for 80 dollars. I cant wait to try it out and this video was amazing. New sub, keep up the awesome work.

[@PhilUKNet]

You got a good deal! Further, all the original paperwork being there tells me the previous owner looked after the equipment. Have fun!

[@evannash228]

Talk about a quick and concise tutorial! I recently found my grandfathers A 1 in our attic, complete with a 50mm and 28 mm lens and this video has been such a simple and yet helpful resource!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! I, too, have both those lenses. The cameras often came with a 50mm f/1.8. After I bought a 28mm f/2.8, I much preferred the wider angle, and it stayed on the camera most of the time. Have fun!

[@dustinmorgan4634]

You got it spot on with the fact that this was an inherited gift but I have done previous digital photography

[@PhilUKNet]

If it was inherited I hope you inherited a nice selection of FD Lenses as well!

[@jeffkelly5972]

I have a A1 and have never seen a better tutorial on this camera than yours. Thank you for posting this video. I also have a AE1 and enjoy both film cameras. It is getting hard to find film and even harder to find developing at a reasonable price.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! I'm in Thailand and film is very easy to find, but it's expensive. I've been paying Bt320 (almost $10) for a 36 exp roll of Portra 160. The developing cost is Bt80 (almost $2.50) without scanning - I do my own scanning. It soon adds up when you consider the cost of digital!

[@aerialcornwall]

Thank you for a great video! My grandad passed away over 10 years ago and just got this out of storage to finally use again. There's even an old roll of film in the camera still.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! I'm sorry to hear about your granddad. I moved from the UK to Thailand in 2003 and left my film cameras in storage. When I finally retrieved them, they were fine, and hopefully, yours is too. My cameras also had old rolls of film in, and when they were developed, they still looked OK. You might have a few pleasant surprises when you get the film developed!

[@kennethpost3974]

Perfect video for newbies. Bought my A-1 at an estate sale for 15USD a few years ago. Now I feel much more confident in being able to play around with the settings.

[@PhilUKNet]

That was a good price! Thanks for your comment.

[@fatfrank4278]

Thank you so much Phil! Im not completely new to film photography and got the A-1 recently. Your video was a big help! Much appreciated!

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! Thank you for the kind comments 🙂

[@curtisgoodnight]

Super helpful video! I just picked up one of these off eBay, and I feel much more prepared to use it now.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you 🙏 Happy shooting!

[@michaelbuckley8986]

Thanks

[@PhilUKNet]

Michael, you're so kind. Thank you!

[@thomasmaddison2171]

Hi Phil, I have just started a BOA in photography at the grand old age of 64, having used digital for the past zillions of years, I was given the A1 and sent out on a walkabout to snap in manual mode as you can imagine my results were very poor after developing the film another first, So decided to do a little research and found you tube, a very informative tutorial hopefully I can now do a little better thank you.

[@PhilUKNet]

Hi Thomas, and thanks for your comment! My experience was the other way round. I started with the A1 in 1981 and moved to digital around 2000. Cameras are so good now that you don't need to know anything about exposure to get great images. Using an old film camera in manual mode is a good way to learn. In my experience, I have found that the A1 overexposes. I have two A1 bodies and they are both the same. Be careful of this if you use the camera metering system. I normally set the camera to 2/3 of a stop less by dialing in some negative EC. If you have access to one, you can also check using an external light meter. Let me know if you have any A1 related questions.

[@tommymaddison]

Thanks Phil as I said it was difficult but with what you have learned me I may be a little better, thanks for the exposure tip I have a roll to shoot so will be processing soon I will let you know how I get on Thanks Tommy

[@majafilipovic1392]

Thanks for this, I just got an A1 and I'm totally new to film photography and I would be lost without this tutorial!

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! Thanks for your comment. If you have any problems feel free to leave a question. I'm sometimes a bit slow to respond, but I try to help everyone who asks.

[@maximedutel9668]

The right level of detail, covering everything about the A-1. Great video!

[@PhilUKNet]

You're very kind, thank you!

[@crawfiecam]

Great explanatory video. Really helped me as I haven’t used a film camera for 25 years!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you!

[@emrearioglu]

Great video, I inherited an A-1 and had no clue. Now it gets exciting📷

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! From the comments I have received, I've found out that a lot of people have acquired these cameras through inheritance. If you're really lucky you will have inherited a selection of good lenses as well!

[@saras7934]

Fantastic tutorial! Thank you very much! :) I only just received a Canon A1 + can't wait to start shooting with a film camera. I've mostly just used digital cameras, but think I can learn a lot from shooting film. Thanks again for your fantastic tutorial!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you Sara, very kind! The more technology improves, the less we have to think. These days just point your phone or camera, click, and you will get a good shot 99% of the time. There was a lot more thinking about exposure in the film days and that's how I learned the basics. It was also necessary because there was no instant feedback. If you take a shot with a digital camera you know straight away if it's OK, and if not you just change a setting and take another shot. When you have to wait for your film to come back from the lab you don't have this luxury. I have to admit I really enjoy the convenience of digital but occasionally I also enjoy reeling off a roll of film! Enjoy your A1!

[@jayhawk7323]

I just bought a Canon A-1 camera. My uncle used to have one of these and I've always wanted to get one. Your video is extremely helpful on the functionality and features of this camera. You do a great job of explaining things clearly. Thank you!👍🙂

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! If you have any questions, please let me know!

Thanks mate, very instructional video. Cannot wait to start shooting with my A1.

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure!

[@poniponiponi]

I just got my dad's old canon a1 and was so confused with so many buttons and options (I'm used to using an f1), so this video is really helpful to. Thank you so much!!

[@PhilUKNet]

You are very welcome, thanks for leaving a comment! There are lots of people like you who have inherited these cameras, which is why I made this video. I've never actually used an F1 so if I get hold of one I will give you a shout!

[@BoeingSkunkWorks]

Another great overview of the A-1. This explains so much that so easily understood about the many functions of this camera.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you 🙏🙏🙏

[@rachelhaines258]

SUCH a clear, informative, and helpful video! Well done! Sending thanks from the states!

[@PhilUKNet]

You're very kind! Thank you 🙏

[@michielvanzummeren]

Thank you so much for this video! Have my A1 a couple of years now but only knew a handful of buttons. This is truly helpful

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! Thanks for letting me know.

[@princessshredder]

Thank you for this. I read the manual and this is an excellent fill-in-the-blanks tutorial! I can hardly wait to use the pristine Canon A-1 that was just gifted to me!

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure, thanks for your comment! The manual is actually very good, but if you aren't familiar with the camera I think it helps to actually see the real thing. Enjoy your new camera!

[@AutotechHuncho]

I just got into photography and got this as my first camera this is a very helpful video thanks a lot. Do you have a more in depth video on aperture for beginners

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks! The A1 can be fully automatic, but using the manual and semi-automatic modes is a good way to learn about exposure. In the past, I considered doing a video about basic exposure, but there are quite a few videos and tutorials out there already so I didn't bother. Inside the lens is a diaphragm that can open and close to control the aperture, which controls how much light can pass through the lens. The big numbers (f/32 f/22, etc) indicate that it is closed quite small, thus only allowing in a little light. The small numbers (f/2.8 f/4, etc) indicate that the diaphragm is open and letting in a lot of light. Lens descriptions will tell you the focal length and maximum aperture of the lens, for example, 32mm f/1.4, 70-210mm f/4, etc. When you focus on a subject, an area in front of, and behind, the subject is also in focus. This area that is in focus is called the depth of field (DOF). Sometimes it is desirable to have a deep depth of field so that everything in the shot is in focus. At other times, for example portraits, you want a shallow DOF. You want the background to be blurred in order to isolate your subject. A wide aperture (small f number) will give a shallow depth of field. A small aperture (large f number) will give a deep depth of field. Other factors also affect DOF - sensor size, lens focal length, and distance to subject. When shooting in low light, you want to use a large aperture so that more light enters the lens. This will allow you to use a faster shutter speed, but will give a shallow DOF. Slow shutter speeds cause blurry images and often require a tripod. So, depending on your subject, the kind of image you want to achieve, your camera, your lens, and the amount of available light, you have to decide on what exposure settings you want. You can expose the film with the same amount of light by using a small aperture and a slow shutter speed, or a large aperture and a fast shutter speed. The exposure will be correct, however, the DOF and the amount of motion blur will be different. It's quite a simple concept, but lengthy to explain! You also have the option of using different film speeds (ISO/ASA) and flash units. When I first got my A1 over 40 years ago, I experimented. You could do the same. Put the camera on a tripod and shoot a subject that is moving. Put the camera in Tv mode and choose a slow shutter speed, for example 1/60s. Then take another shot using a fast shutter speed, for example 1/250s. The fast shutter speed will freeze the motion, but give you a shallow depth of field. The slow shutter speed will give you a deeper DOF, but you will see motion blur. Hope this helps!

[@joemander-rigby]

Great video! When the camera is in aperture priority mode, should you set your lens to the lowest f-stop or keep the lens in auto?

[@PhilUKNet]

@joemander96 Thank you! In Av mode, you use the dial on the camera to set the lens aperture. For the camera to be able to do this, the aperture ring on the lens must be on the green A. If it isn't on the green A, you are in manual mode. There will be an M in the viewfinder, and the camera won't be able to change the lens aperture.

[@joemander-rigby]

@@PhilUKNet Thank you so much for taking the time to reply!

[@PhilUKNet]

@@joemander-rigby I'm only a little channel. If people are kind enough to comment, I think it's only common decency to reply. Occasionally, I miss comments, but generally I try to reply to all comments!

[@rogerbrackin9274]

Great review. I've owned this camera for 40 years (was my first camera). Continued to use it (now alongside a digital). I also recently bought a friend one. This is really great for her. There is one querk worth noting. Sometimes the LED display goes to flashing EEEEE. Usually after the depth of field preview has been used. Cure is to set the 'multiple exposure lever' and re-cock the shutter.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! It's similar for me. Mine was a 21st birthday present in 1981. The EE EEEE problem and how to reset it appears in comments quite regularly. The other quirk is that the A1 tends to overexpose. I've compared it against my T90 and the difference is a stop or more. I tell people to wind in a little negative EC. Thanks for your comment!

[@ΜανόληςΜαθιού]

Great camera I'm using it since '93. Just a tip, in order to open the battery door, canon is using the hot shoe cover, that small tooth is for that.

[@PhilUKNet]

It really is. Thanks for the tip. I knew this, but forgot to mention a few things in the video.

[@kellyd6619]

That was so helpful! You are very knowledgeable and a great teacher! Thank you!

[@PhilUKNet]

You're most welcome! Thank you for your kind comment 🙏

[@CanoeToNewOrleans]

Your explanation is clear and easy to understand. Thank you for posting this.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you!

[@marv3lousmarv]

Excellent clear and concise tutorial! Many thanks! 👍🏻

[@PhilUKNet]

@@marv3lousmarv Thank you!

[@xxloserface194]

I’ve learned so much from this tutorial and keep coming back to it every once in a while 😊 great stuff!!!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you Linda, you're very kind! If I missed anything or something isn't clear, feel free to ask.

[@king_sparxy]

Thanks for the video- i got an A1 from a relative (the manual was to an AE1, 😂), and then got another, better functioning A1 for actual use. Thanks!

[@PhilUKNet]

It seems that quite a few A1s are inherited! One of my A1s has recently started playing up, and I've just sent my T90 to the States for repairs. All these cameras are very old now, and finding the right people to repair and service them is becoming increasingly difficult. Anyway, happy shooting!

[@king_sparxy]

Thanks, happy shooting to you too!

[@colbyshelton4796]

Dude thanks so much just got one for my first photo class and was a little confused

[@PhilUKNet]

Glad it helped!

[@LordPhilOne]

Well, thank you, sir! Having recently bought a Canon A1 without the manual, your video was really helpful. Cheers.

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure 🙂 Thanks for letting me know 🙏

[@Setallica-07]

Another epic video thank you Phil !! The one I inherited has the original lens + another 5 one of them is a wide angle adapter ? It is in a big brown case with lots of other stuff like colour filters ,cables, cleaning kits and all this is in as new condition. The only thing is the black camera case outside seems to be flakey but all the stuff inside and the big brown carry case ..I asume is from the 70-80s is pristine am over the moon with it. New battery on the way so finger crossed it all works as it should :)

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks! It all sounds great. You're really fortunate to acquire all this gear in pristine condition. Those leather camera cases were very popular in the 80's. I used to have one. However, as you say, they deteriorate and go flaky with age. I never came across an FD wide angle adapter. I just have 1.4x and 2x adapters to increase the focal length. The shutter has started playing up in one of my A1s, which isn't really surprising after 40+ years! I hope yours is OK,. Enjoy your new gear!

[@tonyharris8889]

Great video introduction to the Canon A1 though I am puzzled as to why you selected 1/1000 shutter speed before loading the film?

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! I normally have the lens cap on when I load film. If it's in auto mode and sees total darkness it selects a very long shutter speed resulting in you having to wait a long time to use the advance lever to load the film. That's all!

[@AliyaBiggs]

Thanks for this video!! Incredibly clear and easy to follow tutorial!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! If you have any questions, feel free to ask 🙂

[@AliyaBiggs]

@@PhilUKNet ❤

[@drygihsetudefu5547]

Hi Phil, thank u so much for this video! The best and most useful tutorial for beginners I've ever seen! I just bought a second-hand canon A-1 and struggled to get used to it.( A-1 is my first manual film camera. I only used point and shoot camera in the past) If you don't mind I wanna ask a silly question. I put a battery in A-1 and about 3 to 4 hours later, the battery is dead, should I go to the repair center and check my camera?

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! Although Canon says a year, the battery will actually last for several years. Although there could be a fault with the camera that is draining the battery, I have never heard of this. As a first step I would try replacing the battery again. Try buying one from a different source in case the first source has a lot of old stock. I doubt that many of these batteries are sold and it's possible that you bought an old one that was almost depleted. If the same thing happens with another new battery, you may have a problem finding someone who can repair these cameras. The people with the right skills probably retired years ago. Good luck!

[@matthewsisson1234]

Thanks for the video, Phil. It really took me back. Can you remind me what the hearing-aid type battery receptacle on the bottom of the A-1 powers? What size battery does it need? Thanks again.

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! On the bottom? There is no battery on the bottom. The only thing on the bottom is a little cap that covers the opening for the film advance mechanism. You remove this when you want to use a power winder with the A1. Is this what you meant? kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5usiWuFZbx0j6s

[@cassandrathowenshu]

Just bought an A1 secondhand and was wondering how to use it properly. I chanced upon your video and I think after watching it I’m quite set to shoot my first roll! :-)

[@PhilUKNet]

I'm pleased to hear it. Thanks for letting me know! Happy shooting, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!

[@melvinhowell5469]

Very cool! I've had an A-1 for almost 30 years, but never really used it...now, retired, I'm gonna start...can't wait! Thank you so much! Subscribed!

[@PhilUKNet]

After moving to digital in 2004 I didn't use my film gear for a long time. I do miss the convenience and ease of digital when I shoot film now, but it's actually quite good fun and brings back a lot of happy memories. Thank you!

[@seahowl2]

Thank you for your videos. It's been extremely helpful. If you don't mind answering a question I had, what are examples of when one would want to change the exposure compensation to a value other than 1?

[@PhilUKNet]

Good question! Of course, it's very different with digital cameras compared to film. With digital, we can see straight away if a scene is too dark or too bright and use EC to make adjustments. With film, it's all guesswork. The A1 only has one metering mode, which is a kind of centre weighted average. If a scene has a big dynamic range, the camera takes an average meter reading of the light and dark areas, which is weighted more in the centre of the scene. It can't meter all parts of the scene correctly, and using an average reading, dark areas will be underexposed. If, for example, you are shooting a subject against a bright background and don't have a fill flash, the subject will be underexposed. You could therefore increase the EC in order to expose the subject. This would result in the background being blown out, but it's a decision you need to make as it's impossible to correctly expose all parts of the scene. When you look at a scene through the viewfinder, you need to try to guess how the camera sees it, and if you think that the most important part of the scene will be over or underexposed, you can use EC to try to correct things. In addition, and this is specific to the A1, not general, I have found that the camera tends to overexpose. I have done side-by-side comparisons with my Canon T90 (which has a great metering system) and the difference is quite big. This is why I always dial in some negative EC with the A1. Did that help?

[@manuelpujolbatlle7795]

Wonderfully explained. It's the best video on this camera I have seen so far. I just got one of these cameras on a thrift shop and I just can wait to go out and shoot with it.

[@PhilUKNet]

You're very kind, thank you! Have fun shooting!

[@TrevorsFishing]

Just got into film again and picked up an A1. This video is extremely helpful, thanks a lot man!!!

[@PhilUKNet]

Glad it helped! Thanks for commenting. Happy shooting!

[@saulekaravirs6585]

I've been reading the manual on my Dad's ol' trusty, but this really simplifies it a bit. Thanks for the clear and concise explanations.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks for letting me know. I'm glad it helped!

[@Justhunny_]

thank you so much, i just got my first manual camera and is this one and this helped me a lot!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you!

[@Sektor71]

Thank you for this amazing and detailed video Phil! I do have one question: If I set the aperture value on the lens (to lets say 5.6) and I set the aperture value (in AV mode) on the camera to 4. With what aperture will the picture then eventually be taken? Would the lens or the camera be the "Master" in this setup? Thanks again!

[@PhilUKNet]

You're welcome, thanks for the comment! As soon as you move the aperture ring on the lens away from A, you are in manual mode and the camera cannot control the lens diaphragm. If you set the aperture ring to f/5.6, that is the aperture that will be used for the shot. The viewfinder will show what aperture SHOULD be used for the shutter speed you are using, but the camera can't set the aperture when the aperture ring is not on A. In your example, the camera will measure the light, and because you have selected f/4 in Av mode, it will select a shutter speed for f/4. However, as you have set the lens aperture to f/5.6, which is smaller than f/4 and lets in less light, the photo will be underexposed.

[@Flash221]

What a great and clear video you've made here, Phil! Thanks so much. One small question, when you're in aperture priority mode on the A-1, and you set the desired aperture on the little dial next to the shutter release, do you also have to set the aperture on the lens itself? I presume you have to set both to the same. Or is it that the AV aperture dial takes 'over' so to speak?

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! When using the fully (P) or semi (Tv Av) automatic modes, you must set the aperture ring on the lens to the green A. The lens aperture can then be controlled by the camera. In Av mode, whatever aperture you set on the AT dial will be communicated to the lens provided you use the green A. If the lens aperture ring is not on the green A, the camera is in manual mode. The aperture used will be whichever f value is set on the aperture ring. If you set the dial and the aperture ring to the same value in Av mode, you will still get a correct exposure. However, if they are different, the actual aperture used will be the one set on on the aperture ring. The camera will use the shutter speed that is recommended for the aperture set on the dial, and thus the exposure will be wrong. Hope this is clear!

[@Flash221]

@@PhilUKNetAhhhh! Of course, that makes a lot of sense. Very well explained, thank you!

[@PhilUKNet]

@@Flash221 Good! It's easier to explain in person and I wasn't sure if my written explanation was clear. It's actually all quite logical when you get your head around it!

[@paul-II]

Thank you so much ! I just got a a-1 from my aunt, this might help me a lot !

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! I hope you got a few good lenses as well! If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

[@glittery_alice6179]

Best video I found online for this camera :)

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you!

[@bleuebetaplume2916]

I love my A-1. Got it when I was 20 something in the mid-90's as an upgrade from the Practika MTL-50 which had been my faithful (and very sturdy, if not exactly subtle) companion since I was 13. A-1 looked scary. Very very complicated and pro-looking after the simplicity of MTL-50. Soooo many buttons, gimmicks , incomprehensible numbers around the basic knobs I knew so well, multi-priority modes.... I feared i would never be able to master the sophisticated black beast. And I didn't. Never fully. Especially how to use correctly the semi-automatic modes and correctly set the aperture/shutter priority versatile knob. Same with the exposure compensation fraction scale. No idea on earth what that was for. One of the reasons being that the shop could not give me the actual user guide. And I had to make do with the guide of the AE-1 instead. Close enough, but not enough^^. Especially in those days when there was no internet around to download the unfindable from dedicated sites. And this is where your video is perfect. A few of the A-1 buttons and inscriptions were still a mystery to me. Besides, I had lost touch with photography as I entered active duty in.society, and with film photography and film cameras in general as A Nikon Bridge I was offered for my 40.th birthday had made me veeeeeeery lazy. Not bothering with its stupid and über-annoying menus, I used it as a point and shoot on automatic [scene] mode. I.m grateful to it as it got me back on the 'let's take photos' wagon but It also made me long for the feel you get when operating a film camera and the beautiful eyesight of my FD lenses. And when I got A-1 out of its bag after years of abandonment, I found out that it was now almost as strange to me as when I first got it. Besides my head is now slow at computing exposition variables, it's no longer second nature. I have to reacquire the reflexes and it starts with refreshing on the specifics of my camera. Which this video does marvelously in a simple and concise way. Thank you for making and posting it. I will most certainly watch your other video on A-1.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks for your comment! I remember thinking how complicated the camera was. I also clearly remember feeling overawed with the technology back in the early 80's. Nowadays, the functionality seems quite basic, as does the technology due to the way technology has advanced since then. You're so right about the pre-Internet age. We take it for granted now that any information we want will be instantly available, but it was all so different just a few years ago. Without a user manual it would have been difficult to figure things out.

[@ianhand5006]

I took my A-1 out today, loaded wit Tri-X, and really enjoyed shooting with it.

[@PhilUKNet]

Despite the convenience and ease of digital I know what you mean. It's fun! How does the Tri-X look? I haven't tried it.

[@Bethk10]

Hi Phil. Great videos. Quick question regarding using the camera in fully automatic. What does it mean when it got ‘eeeeeee’ when looking through the viewfinder?

[@PhilUKNet]

Hello Beth. I've only ever seen this error after messing around with the stop-down lever. If you push in the stop-down lever then release it without taking a shot, it can cause this error. To clear it, push the film advance lever into its fully retracted position. Underneath is the multiple exposure lever. Push this to the left, and then advance the film lever. This will cock the shutter without advancing the film, and it should clear the error condition. If it doesn't, then maybe you have a fault with the camera or the lens which will need fixing. Good luck!

[@tobby15]

great video thanks!! im looking to pick one on ebay! is it possible to remove the hig viewport rubber? or is that firmly attached? thanks!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! That piece of rubber just clips on, and comes off easily. Hope you find a decent one at a reasonable price.

[@tobby15]

@@PhilUKNet perfect! thankyou so much!!

[@ronanderson9960]

Great job! I plan on purchasing one of this camera! Thanks

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! Take your time and try to find one that has been looked after. Parts are almost impossible to find now, as are the skills to fix them.

[@ronanderson9960]

@@PhilUKNet yes! I totally agree! Thank you

[@cinderellie8]

Thank you soooo much for sharing your time and experience! Im so excited to start using my camera now that its a bit less intimidating!!💖💖

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you!

[@cinderellie8]

@@PhilUKNet 💖💖 And i was testing my battery wrong. Now i see my battery is fine and i can get right into it! 💖💖

[@jennywren8937]

Hey, we have an old Canon packed away somewhere. Thought they were extinct. Believe we stopped using it when the lens got stuck. Will have to study this and compare. Thanks.

[@PhilUKNet]

I thought they had gone extinct as well, but a few years ago there was a revival - a kind of Jurassic Park for cameras. A lot of people like the film look and it can be quite good fun messing around with old film gear.

[@theyellowcab]

Thank you very much for this thorough video ! Does the exposure compensation work in fully automatic mode ?

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! Yes, it does, and I would recommend dialing in some negative exposure compensation. In a video I have just made, I explain how the A1 tends to overexpose quite a lot and how some negative EC can counter this problem. It could just be a problem with my camera, but I've read several similar complaints about the A1 and it seems to be a fairly generic problem. Of course, you will be advised to do your own testing! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oamYoJqdlrSSmc0

[@user-wq7jj9zr9r]

Really nice tutorial.

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you!

[@TON618-s3z]

If I shoot in aperture priority mode, where should I set its value on the camera or on the lens?

[@PhilUKNet]

On the camera. Set the camera to Av and make sure the lens aperture ring is on A. Select the aperture you want using the front dial on the camera and the camera will take care of the shutter speed. As soon as you move the lens aperture ring from A to an f value you are in fully manual mode.

[@TON618-s3z]

@@PhilUKNet Thank you!

[@shelbiehyland198]

Hi! I have a 52mm lense for my cannon A-1. What film do you recommend using? Just got handed this camera down from a friend and want to learn it before my trip in a couple weeks.

[@PhilUKNet]

It's really up to you depending on your preferences and what is available. Black and white or colour? Negatives or slides? The ISO value is important with film because it can't be changed on the fly, as it can with digital cameras. 100 ISO has good detail but is quite slow indoors or when the sun disappears. Higher ISO values are more light sensitive, but have more grain. ISO 200 is quite a good compromise. Regarding film manufacturers, they are all good, but some people prefer the look of certain film. If you shoot a lot of portraits, Kodak Portra is nice for skin tones. Do some experimentation to see what you like!

[@cloudy9862]

Hi, would you recommend this camera for a beginner in 2022 for about $150 usd?

[@PhilUKNet]

Definitely. Brand new beginners can put it in full auto mode, focus and shoot. As you learn more and become more confident you can play around with the semi-automatic modes and full manual. I was a beginner when I first got my A1 and this is how I learnt about exposure. I don't have a clue about used prices these days. Just make sure that the physical condition looks good and everything is working. Parts are virtually impossible to find, as are the skills needed to fix these cameras.

[@cloudy9862]

@@PhilUKNet okay thank you so much!

[@N7Ghost13]

Great video. Do you have any suggestions on how to remove an apparently stuck camera body cap without breaking the cap?

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! I've never had that problem and I'm struggling to think of suggestions. I store my film cameras with lenses attached. I'm sorry 😪

[@iracarew5172]

Could i get some help with afew quirks of my new A-1 I am a 17 year old who has been shooting film for just over 6 months now, i started due to a holiday to western Australia, and ive always appreciated film, and so loved the idea of having a "classic" holiday that i could remember through film, we bought a Voigtlander Vito B, this spread through the family and so i have just acquired an A-1 through my uncle, your video was extremely helpful as this camera is far more advanced than my completely manual 50s Vito, but there is afew quirks of my camera id like to clarify The biggest one is my Canon has a 28mm lens on it, of which does not have (as far as i can see) any release button to remove the lens At 15:45 you talk about the accurate aperture lever, mine has this, but it does not stay actuated, and so makes it almost impossible to hold the lever down, change the aperture, and take a photo, my best guess is the battery, which needs to be replaced, but im not sure how this would effect the mechanical switch? on the bottom of my camera, next to the film wind release button, it does not have the silver pad with a slot in it (you can see this here 16:25) mine is open, like it has had this removed, which seems likely as the slot looks like where youd use a coin to unscrew it, like the finger plate (1:41) just would like to know what the mechanism underneath is for, is this just for maintenance? it looks like it has a keyed gear, maybe a more direct way to unwind the film incase the mechanism breaks is what im guessing, ill make a cover for it and lastly, there is a nubbin, on the left side front face of the camera, below the battery check button, i found you could remove the small black cap over it, and im not sure what it is? looks like an oil nipple to me thank you to anyone who has any ideas, they're greatly appreciated, hopefully someone sees this after 2 years of the video been up.

[@PhilUKNet]

G'Day! You can certainly release the lens. Hold the camera pointing towards you. At about 4:30 on the lens you will see a chrome button. Press it in and rotate the lens. Not sure what the problem is with the stop down lever, but make sure that the lens aperture ring isn't on the green A when you try to press it in. The silver cover that you don't have is to get access to the film advance mechanism. As you know, after every shot you have to wind on the film manually. You can also get winders and motor drives to do this automatically. They screw on to the bottom of the camera and connect to the film advance mechanism through this hole. The nubbin on the front of the camera is the PC sync socket for flash. With a dedicated flash, such as the 199A, it connects electrically to the camera through the hotshoe. Some flashes don't do this, but they also have a PC sync socket, and you can connect the camera and flash with a PC sync cord. You can do the same if you want to use your flash off-camera, ie not mounted on the hotshoe. Hope this helps. Let me know if there is anything else.

[@iracarew5172]

@Phil UK net Thank you for the speedy reply! didnt expect anyone to see this That seems to be the issue, there is no button to release the lens, i have tried applying gentle turning pressure to see if it will simply twist off, but to no avail wait, never mind, in writing this i tried one last time and it is indeed a simple screw on lens, but now im having trouble getting the lens back on, im lining the red dots up, and do not have it set on 'A' as ive heard putting it on set like this can damage the mechanical coupler, but its not twisting back on yes i have it set off 'A' and the lever will still not lock into position, unlikely ill use it but still something to note Ah these make perfect sense, my uncle was disappointed as he had a flash (good to know about the sync socket), new lenses, corded shutter release *and* a film advance motor (sadly all lost through the years, hopefully they'll pop up somewhere) so it would make sense that the film advance mechanism cover is missing *EDIT:* in messing with the lens, a prong pretuding from the back of the lens moved up to the top of a slot, allowing me to get it on, not sure what i did, but its back on now

[@PhilUKNet]

@Ira Carew I try to help when I can. It sounds as if your lens is broken. This type of connection is known as a bayonet mount, not a screw mount. Not sure if there is a problem with your stop down lever, but I have never found it particularly useful. It also makes the viewfinder very dark. I too have lost accessories. I moved to Thailand 20 years ago and left all my film gear in the UK. I managed to retrieve some items in 2017, but there are still several lenses, winders and other accessories somewhere. Not sure if I will ever see them again 😩

[@iracarew5172]

@@PhilUKNet such a shame! hopefully you'll get them back one day i figured out the "bayonet mount", all good now (look at previous post which i edited) i have another thing to ask, i actually got in hand the camera just today as my dad stopped into my grandmas (where it was) to pick it up, but surprisingly, as my grandma is moving out, he also came home with her 1975 Ricoh kr-5 super ii, its much simpler than the cannon, and at a glance know all thats on it, but was wondering if you have a video on it, or if not is there any quirks i should know about thank you so much for all the help, my friends obviously know nothing about these delightful machines, and are uninterested with them in favor of the sterile digital cameras they have on their phones, so its good to finally talk to someone about it.

[@PhilUKNet]

@Ira Carew I think my gear is in the house that I currently let out, so it may not be there any longer depending on the honesty of the tenant! Never mind. I'm glad you got the lens sorted out. I've only ever owned Canon cameras, so I'm afraid I know nothing about Ricoh. However, if you understand the basics of exposure, it shouldn't be too difficult to figure out. You need to set the shutter speed on the camera and the lens aperture. You need to measure the light and set the appropriate shutter speed and aperture. With the most basic cameras, these things were all done manually. There was a light meter, but this didn't actually set anything on the camera. As cameras advanced, eg, the A1, more things began to be handled automatically by the camera. I know nothing at all about the Ricoh camera, but it shouldn't be too difficult to work out. Learning this stuff will give you a good grounding. Years ago, people needed to know this stuff, but these days you don't need to know anything in order to take photos. Have fun!

[@stefangrubesic2708]

I've never tried a film camera but something took over me and I want to, first I'll go for a point and shoot that I've got from my parents to see how film feels Then my plan is to go for an SLR, first planned AE-1 but here their prices are ridiculous I guess because of the popularity and most novices going for them and there's not that many of them selling. I need to add because of lenses and other accessories I think my best bet would be Canon as Nikon, Olympus, Pentax and Minolta seem to be quite rare and expensive in Bosnia (not that FD lenses are much more common but at least there are some) Cheapest option seems to be AT-1 and as interesting as it would be going for a fully manual one for my first SLR to really learn hot to do it I do think it could be a big bite. AV-1, AL-1 and AE-1P are non-existent on this market so that leaves the A-1, surprisingly not that much more expensive than AT-1 yet cheaper than AE-1, gives me the choice to go fully auto and just do the focus myself which should be hard to fuck up but also to go manual and learn, kinda made my mind on it to go for A-1 even though it seems to be actually the semi-pro choice but I'm open for advices, thanks for this video it really helped me understand the A-1

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks for the info on the used market for film cameras. I had no idea. I'm surprised that A1s are cheaper than AE1s. It sounds as though you don't have a lot of choice where you are, so just get what is available at a fair price. Something else that surprises me is why there is so little love for the T90, which is a far superior camera to the ones you mentioned. I agree that Canon would be a good choice. Not only because of availability, accessories and lenses, but also reliability. Good luck tracking something down!

[@putridewi8329]

Hi i would like to ask, why did my canon a1 shutter dooesn’t work if the lens in auto mode? And Thankyou for the tutorial video, this help me so much

[@PhilUKNet]

Hi Putri, I'm not exactly sure of your question and some more information would be useful. When you talk about the lens being in auto mode, do you mean setting the lens aperture ring to the green 'A'? What mode do you have the camera set to? When you say the shutter doesn't work, do you mean it doesn't release when you press the shutter release button? If you can give me some more information I can try to determine whether it's something you are doing, or whether there is a fault with the camera.

[@KrysOkunowski]

I know, it's so strange! Yes I put a fresh battery in it. The light blinks rapidly. I haven't used this camera in a long time. So I'm unsure as to.whats going on with it.

[@PhilUKNet]

Sorry, I don't either.

[@benoit2900]

Hi great review, could you tell me what lense you put on for more bocah (portrait lense) f4 aperture, thanks

[@PhilUKNet]

Thanks! The only f/4 lens I have is the FD 70-210mm. My best lens for bokeh, by far, is an FD 135mm f/2. The bokeh effect is increased by big apertures and longer lenses.

[@Markphotography78]

Excellent informative video and easy to follow 👍

[@PhilUKNet]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you 🙏

[@sinejones9532]

Just got my hands on an A1 after taking the plunge from point and shoot so this was super helpful! I have one quick question tho (probably my own mistake) - there’s quite a delay between pressing the shutter and the picture actually taking (the shutter will click, the viewfinder goes black for 2-5 secs and then clicks again to take the picture). I followed your instructions to set it up as automatic as possible to begin with and there’s definitely no self timer - could it just be from low recent-usage and it will ease up in time or is this something to get checked out/message the seller about? Any help would be much appreciated!

[@PhilUKNet]

It sounds as if the camera is selecting a very slow shutter speed. What shutter speed is showing in the viewfinder? Put the camera in TV mode and select 1/1000. What happens then? If you have it in auto mode znd a slow shutter speed is being selected, it could be because you are using it in very low light. Another test would be to try some shots outside in bright sunlight in auto mode to see if that makes a difference. Let me know!

[@patriciaaangeli]

Bought this for myself and I kinda regret it til I found this video! 😂 I never thought that this camera has an Automatic mode and told myself I should’ve gotten the AE1 Program instead LOL thanks for this video!!! ❤️❤️

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! The A1 does everything the AE1 P does and it also has an aperture priority mode. It's very flexible. When it was released it was a revolutionary camera. The metering isn't great and it tends to overexpose, so I would recommend dialing in a stop or so of negative exposure compensation. Enjoy your shooting and Merry Christmas!

[@kristinalugo7893]

3:30 for film loading 16:00 for unloading film

[@PhilUKNet]

👍

[@tihinen92]

This video was super helpful and I actually filled my first film! But I ran into an issue and I hope you can enlighten me. The battery door is a little bit loose and moving the camera sometimes turns it off. If I then press my finger on the door and push the battery checker, the battery light is blinking and everything's fine. But sometimes the camera seems to turn off mid shutter. Would replacing the battery door help does this seem more like a problem with the battery compartment itself? Any help is much appreciated!

[@PhilUKNet]

That's great to hear. Thank you! In the comments, I've read about various problems, but I haven't heard about this particular problem before. It's tricky. From what you describe about pushing the door with your finger and it then working, it does sound as if a loose door is causing the battery to lose contact. A new door would probably help, but as these cameras are now 45 years old, parts are almost impossible to obtain. In your position, I would probably be looking to improvise some kind of a fix, knowing that it will be very difficult/impossible to find replacement parts. A camera repair shop may be able to help, preferably an old shop with experience of film cameras. Good luck finding a solution, and I'm sorry that I can't be more helpful.

[@tihinen92]

⁠That's already really helpful, thank you Phil for taking the time! I'm probably gonna try a quick fix to see if it works if the door is fully closed and then figure out a way to maybe 3D print a replacement since there are schematics out there ☺️.

[@PhilUKNet]

@@tihinen92 Pleasure! I have no experience at all with 3D printing, but it's a very interesting technology. Good luck!

[@Lisa-zk5hz]

Thank you SO MUCH for making this! So helpful & easy to follow!!

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure, I'm glad you found it useful. Thanks for your comment!

[@markandrewhoran]

Great informative video, mate. Thank you!

[@PhilUKNet]

@@markandrewhoran Thank you!

[@sweetgoguma3157]

I just bought my A1 camera 😇😇 I’m gonna try my first ever film with the fully automatic program first (just to play safe) thanks for the instruction Sir!

[@PhilUKNet]

That's what I would recommend at first. Once you're comfortable with the camera you can then try the semiautomatic modes, which are actually very easy. With the Av and Tv modes you can get a lot more creative controlling depth of field and freezing or blurring motion. Happy shooting!

[@anatorres2513]

Hi i Washington wondering if KZbin Head a video About double exposures with the a-1. Most of the videos I’ve seen is people running the film through 2 times. Once underexposed and the again normal speed. But was wondering if you had a technique for the A-1

[@PhilUKNet]

In all the years I have had my A1 I have never done this! I guess I'm just not into that kind of special effect. With the A1 you don't need to run the film through twice. There's a little lever underneath the film advance lever. If you push it in, the next time you pull the advance lever it cocks the shutter without advancing the film. You can keep doing this if you want more than two exposures on the same frame. Regarding exposure settings, I think some trial and error would be required. If you shoot both exposures at normal exposure you will probably get some overexposure. It would probably be best to under expose, but you would need to do some tests.

[@maxb306]

When you are shooting in Av mode, do you have to leave the lens on A, and just adjust the aperture via the top dial? or do you have to set the lens aperture on the lens and match it to the top dial?

[@PhilUKNet]

You must have the lens aperture dial on A. When it's not on A, the camera can't control the lens aperture. When not on A, you are in manual mode, and an M is displayed in the viewfinder to indicate this.

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

@9:30 When you put the Camera into Aperture Value mode(as Canon referred to it as), the Lens still has to be on A.

[@PhilUKNet]

Yes. In Aperture Priority (Av) mode you select an aperture on the camera body and the camera figures out the correct shutter speed. For the camera to set the lens aperture that you chose, the aperture ring has to be on A. If it's not on A the camera can't control the lens aperture. When it's away from A the aperture is whatever is set on the aperture ring, thus it's in manual mode.

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

@@PhilUKNet I owned an A1 from April 1981 till July 1985.

[@alexsea6445]

Hi Phil! thank you for the great video, Im only about a few minutes but have had an issue where I set it all up as shown in automatic but when I go to shoot it gives me "eeeee ee eeee" error message and won't let me shoot. Is this an easy fix, am I doing something wrong?

[@PhilUKNet]

Hi Alex, thanks for your message. I'm not at home at the moment, but this sounds like a problem with the stop down lever on the front of the camera on the left of the lens (as you hold the camera to shoot). I can't remember the exact sequence but try pressing in the stop down lever and then cock the shutter. You may need to use the multiple exposure lever to cock the shutter without advancing the film. Give it a try and if it doesn't work I can give you more instructions when I get home. Also, try to find a PDF version of the user manual online. This is quite a common problem and the manual gives instructions on how to fix it.

[@noodle06317]

Really helpful video thank you, I wanted to ask about the numbers on the dial on Shutter speed priority mode. Is this right ? P is for program mode, then the white numbers are for 1/x second shutter speed and the yellow numbers are x second shutter speed? And what does the flash symbol by the 60 mean and the B at the bottom?

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you! You got most of it right! Yes, P is program mode (just make sure that the aperture ring on the lens is set to the green A when you use any fully or semi automatic exposure mode). White numbers are reciprocals of shutter speed, so 500 is 1/500s. Yellow numbers are also shutter speed, but full seconds, so yellow 2 is 2 seconds, not 1/2s. The B is bulb. In Bulb mode the shutter will stay open for as long as you hold down the shutter release button. You could keep the shutter open for hours if you want using B, but this will use up your battery. Use this if you want a shutter speed longer than 30s. Every camera has a flash sync speed. This is the fastest shutter speed you can use the camera with a flash without the shutter curtains appearing in the image. Nowadays, it is typically 1/200s or 1/250s. With the A1 the sync speed is only 1/60s. The flash symbol is there to remind you of the sync speed.

[@scheieryannick409]

Hey, quick Q! My Iso dial doesn't turn when I advance the film. But when I checked with a spare film, I could establish that it does advance! I stay confused until I figure this one out because numerous sources say the iso dial has to turn too when you advance the film. Thanks in advance for any help provided!

[@PhilUKNet]

Sorry for the delay replying, but KZbin stopped sending me notifications. The ISO dial should turn when you advance the film. However, if the film is slack it may not turn the dial. To remove any slackness in the film turn the ISO dial clockwise until you can't turn it any more. This will remove the slackness. Now, when you advance the film you should see the ISO dial rotate.

[@madhousepictures]

I might have missed it, but is there a button or way to “shut off camera” to save battery?

[@PhilUKNet]

@madhousepictures There’s a lever on the top right-hand side outside the film advance lever. The red L (lock) position turns everything off. The white A is for normal use, and the white 2 and 10 positions are for timed shutter release. Sorry if I overlooked this in the video.

[@madhousepictures]

@@PhilUKNet You didn’t! I just missed it. Thanks for the reply!

[@PhilUKNet]

@madhousepictures I made the video a long time ago and couldn't remember if I'd mentioned this or not!

[@SteveAtkinsonFineArt]

Thanks for this Canon A1 overview Phil, it's very helpful. I have a quick question for you. When shooting in Aperture priority mode, do you have to have the aperture ring on the lens set in the A position as you do for shutter priority, or does it not matter if the lens is set to the A position or not? Thanks in advance!

[@PhilUKNet]

Pleasure! Yes. If you're shooting in Av or Tv mode you need to have the aperture ring set to A. In both of these modes the aperture is being set via the dial on the camera and in order for the camera to be able to communicate with the lens and control the aperture it needs to be on the A. As soon as you turn the aperture ring away from the A you are in manual mode. The only way then you can set the aperture is by turning the aperture ring and the camera can only control the shutter speed.

[@MrDoriangriffin]

What does it mean if you look through the viewfinder and don't see the exposure & shutter recommendations

[@PhilUKNet]

You can turn the viewfinder display on and off using the lever on the top left-hand side of the camera. It's the lever on the outside of the battery check button. You should be able to see a white dot. If the lever is covering the white dot, the display is turned off.

[@giraffe8980]

Thanksss! I am thinking to buy this A-1! Want to step into film world!

[@PhilUKNet]

They are good, reliable cameras - even after all this time. The only weakness is the metering. The A1 has a tendency to overexpose, but this can be compensated for. Hope you can find one for a good price!

[@andyjamz3799]

This is the most useful tutorial, thanks a lot!!!!

[@PhilUKNet]

Thank you 😊