Bricks and Beams

The Canon AE-1 Program is a favorite from the 80's.  It sold very well because it was a great camera.

This camera is a follow up to the original AE-1 (1976) and A-1 (1978).

The AE-1 Program sold so well because it represented a high-point of camera development.  The AE-1 Program has all the features you really need in a film camera without adding a bunch of extra features that you just aren't going to use.

The AE-1 Program features an advanced manual focus, through the lens (TTL) full aperture metering, and shutter priority metering.

The AE-1 Program uses several kinds of lenses.  It can use the Canon FD series of bayonet mount lenses and most FL and non-FD Canon lenses.  Older Canon FL and non-FD lenses mount but metering is stop-down only.

Automatic exposure control makes the AE-1 Program a joy to use.  Set A on the lens and PROGRAM on the body and just shoot.

The AE-1 Program uses a 6V PX28A Alkaline Battery that you can get at any camera store and many other kinds of stores like Walmart or Walgreens.

This is an excellent camera for a photography student or as a second body of a hobbyist/pro who likes the FD system of lenses.  It was the lightest of the metal based Canon FD body series.