There is no doubt, the Canon AE1, AE1 Program and A1 are three of the most popular film cameras around, being our most sold 35mm SLR film cameras. These cameras have stood the test of time (now pushing 45-50 years old) and if found in good condition, work as good as they day they were made!

These cameras do cater to different needs, with distinct differences. I’ve developed some opinions on who they are best suited for based on the hundreds we have sold over the years! If you’re considering one of these classics, this guide will (hopefully) help you decide which is the best fit for you.

First, a quick summary of each model…

Canon AE-1: The Hands-On Classic

Released: 1976

The Canon AE-1 is a groundbreaking camera, known for being one of the first to feature a microprocessor. It offers shutter-priority exposure and full manual controls, making it perfect for those eager to understand manual film photography and how shutter speed impacts exposure and motion.

Key Features:

• Shutter-priority mode and full manual control
• TTL centre-weighted metering
• Beautiful metal body / fairly lightweight compared to other film SLR cameras.
• Paired with the Canon FD lenses
• Black or silver bodies available.

Pros:

• Most affordable of the 3 models. (Except the full black colour which is quite rare)
• Intuitive controls for learning photography basics
• Classic ergonomic design

Cons:

• Limited automation compared AE1 Program & A1
• No ability for aperture priority or automatic ‘program’ mode.
• Sharp learning curve (pro & con?) and difficult to ‘nail’ your photo exposure consistently when a beginner, meaning initially you’ll get back lots of over/under exposed photos.

Canon AE-1 Program: The Flexible All-Rounder.

Released: 1981

Building on the AE-1’s foundation, the AE-1 Program added a fully automatic Program mode, which adjusts shutter speed and aperture for you. This feature allows beginners to take great photos right away, providing positive feedback that makes film photography enjoyable. As users grow in confidence, they can explore shutter-priority or manual modes for more creative control.

Key Features:

• Program mode, shutter-priority, and full manual controls
• TTL centre-weighted metering
• Similar ergonomic design to the AE-1. Black or Silver available.
• Paired with the Canon FD lenses

Pros:

• Easier for true beginners to get started with program mode, with lots of positive feedback on first developed rolls.
• Encourages learning at your own pace with multiple modes, allowing you to explore shutter priority and manual control when you are ready

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than the AE-1
• No aperture priority mode

Canon A-1: The Advanced Powerhouse

Released: 1978

The Canon A-1 was revolutionary for its time, offering all PASM exposure modes, including shutter-priority, aperture-priority, full program and manual controls. This flexibility makes it a favourite among enthusiasts who want creative control and automation in a single package.

Key Features:

• All 4 PASM exposure modes: Program, aperture-priority, shutter-priority and manual.
• TTL centre-weighted metering
• Advanced design with a digital LED display in the viewfinder\
• Body colour - black only.
• Paired with the Canon FD lenses

Pros:

• All PASM exposure modes for full creative control
• Ideal for most users (including those new to film photography).
• Sleek and durable build

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to AE-1 and AE-1 Programs
• A little bit more complex to use for beginners
• Less intuitive dials and user interface compared to the AE1 & AE1 Program
• Only comes in black - no silver model available.

So…. Which One Should You Choose?

Canon AE-1: If you want to learn film photography hands-on and focus on understanding shutter speed and manual settings, the AE-1 is a great choice.

• Best for:
• Those on a lower budget
• Beginners committed to learning manual camera controls
• Those with digital camera experience, looking to slow there photography process down.

Canon AE-1 Program: Ideal for photographers wanting an easier to use Program mode but still want the flexibility to grow into manual and shutter-priority controls.

• Best for:
• Most photographers would be happy with this model
• True beginners
• Point & shoot film photographers looking to upgrade to an SLR.

Canon A-1: Perfect for photographers who want to explore various creative shooting modes with a professional-grade camera.

 

• Best for:
• Intermediate & professional digital photographers looking to take up film
• Point & shoot film photographers looking to upgrade to an SLR.
• Beginners committed to learning a slightly more complex camera
• Those looking for a Canon SLR with aperture priority

Not keen on these Canon SLR’s? Maybe consider one of these alternatives…

• Canon F1
• Nikon FM or FM2 or FM2n
• Nikon FE or FE2
• Pentax K1000

Final Thoughts

Each of these cameras offer unique user interfaces and exposure controls, catering to different skill levels and creative needs. Whether you’re a complete beginner, an intermediate user, or an advanced enthusiast, there’s a Canon SLR to match your style. We usually have all 3 models in-stock, and if we don’t currently, there should be some arriving soon!

Check out our range of Canon SLR’s here or send us a message here!