film is not dead – IJM Photography

The Canon AE-1 Program is a timeless gem that continues to captivate photographers and film enthusiasts alike. As a classic film camera first introduced in 1981, it effortlessly combines automatic and manual features, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced photographers.

Automatic and Manual Controls

One of the standout features of the Canon AE-1 Program is its versatility in handling exposure. For those new to film photography, the program mode automatically sets both the shutter speed and aperture, allowing them to focus solely on composition and creativity. It takes the technical complexities out of the equation, delivering stunning results with ease.

However, for those who crave creative control, the AE-1 Program offers manual settings as well. With the freedom to adjust shutter speed and aperture manually, photographers can explore their artistic vision and experiment with different effects. The inclusion of shutter priority mode and bulb mode for long exposure photography adds even more possibilities for artistic expression.

Build and Design

The camera’s solid metal body exudes durability and reliability, ensuring that it can withstand the test of time. Its sturdiness makes it a trustworthy companion on any photographic journey. Handling the AE-1 Program instills a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship that modern digital cameras often struggle to replicate.

The bright and clear viewfinder with a split-image prism aids accurate focusing, enhancing the overall shooting experience. Moreover, the hot shoe for attaching external flashes and the self-timer feature further contribute to the camera’s versatility.

Technical Details

35mm SLR film camera
Program mode, shutter priority mode, manual mode
Metal body for durability
Bright and clear viewfinder with split-image prism
Hot shoe for flash attachment
Self-timer for group shots and self-portraits
ISO range: 12-1600
Shutter speeds: 1/1000 to 30 seconds
Aperture range: f/1.2 to f/16 (depending on lens)

Pros

User-Friendly Interface: Ideal for beginners and those new to film photography, the AE-1 Program’s program mode takes care of exposure details, allowing photographers to focus on creativity.
Creative Freedom: With manual controls and additional shooting modes, experienced photographers can fully unleash their creativity and experiment with different photographic techniques.
Timeless Design: The camera’s robust metal body exudes a sense of craftsmanship and nostalgia, making it a pleasure to handle and use.
Bright Viewfinder: The clear and bright viewfinder with a split-image prism aids accurate focusing, ensuring sharp and well-composed shots.

Cons

Iconic Status: As one of the most sought-after film cameras, the Canon AE-1 Program may come with a higher price tag due to its iconic status.

The Verdict

The Canon AE-1 Program stands as a testament to timeless design and reliable performance. Whether you’re new to film photography or a seasoned enthusiast, this classic camera offers a perfect balance between automatic convenience and manual creativity. Its sturdy build and user-friendly interface make it a delightful companion for any photography journey.

So, if you’re yearning to experience the charm of film photography or simply want to relive the golden era of analog cameras, the Canon AE-1 Program will undoubtedly leave you inspired and amazed by the magic of capturing moments on film.

Happy shooting!

My Personal Thoughts

Without any hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend the AE-1 Program to all photography enthusiasts out there. Whether you’re new to the charm of film photography or an experienced shutterbug seeking a trustworthy and adaptable companion, this camera will surely delight you. “Just do it” as a certain shoemaker once said.

I’ve had the pleasure of using the AE-1 Program for quite some time now, and I must say it’s been an absolute joy. Not only does it beautifully capture those precious everyday moments, but it also allows for endless creative possibilities. One feature that I particularly appreciate is its seamless transition between automatic and manual controls, empowering me to effortlessly tailor my shooting experience.

The idea here is to give you a raw image from the film scans and show you what you can get with a minimum of fuss in Lightroom with some very basic edits. What do you think?

And here we go with a small selection of pictures from the last roll I developed, which are from 2022 and taken in the streets of Nantes. There will be more to come as I head back into the magical world of film photography!

My son seems to use the word “vibe” in a lot of situations. And for once, that word encapsulates exactly how I feel at this very moment. I’m in front of my computer at my desk, typing this article. Why is this an August vibe, though? Because I’m not at work and have the freedom that comes with August to do what I want, within reason, of course. I have my Marshall headphones that have a Princess Leia “vibe”. I’m listening to Ella Fitzgerald sing her beautiful heart out on Amazon Music, and the fan on top of my desk is blowing a fresh breeze through my golden locks. Those of you who know me will understand the ridicule of that last phrase. Locks, golden or otherwise, are something I haven’t had to deal with for many years, but that cool breeze is still very refreshing on my bald scalp.

I have been out, and this will blow your minds as much as the fan is blowing my hair, with my camera taking photographs. I can hardly believe it too. The photographs at the end will not likely seem like holiday photos to you, but to me they are precious! You don’t have to be sitting roasting on a beach to feel on holiday. What I’m getting at is that freedom comes only once a year. Work is important, but rest is important too. Ironically, “Summertime” is playing. The version with Louis Armstrong and Ella together! It really does take you to another place.

And then, there’s my photography escapade. I went old-school with film this time—none of that instant digital gratification. You take the shot, develop the film, scan the negatives, and only then do you wade into the world of editing. Now, you’re probably wondering, “Why the hassle when you’ve got smartphones and digital cameras?” But let me tell you, it’s a deliberate pace that wraps you in its own magic. You deliberate on each shot, finding meaning in every click. Out of the 36 shots I took, I’ve kept 16 for this piece. Fingers crossed, they’re worth the effort.

Film photos emanate a distinct “vibe” compared to their pristine digital counterparts. There’s a soft grain, an endearing imperfection that render them timeless. Some would say they embody an eternal tranquilly, a perpetual “vibe.” In future articles, you will see more of that timeless “vibe,” and pictures from an exhibition at the HAB Gallerie, which I’ve talked about in past articles. There will be shots of various art works all over Nantes that are all part of the annual Voyage à Nantes art season. This year, it’s all about statues taking over the city. But that’s for future articles. I have to keep you coming back for more, don’t I!