Canon AE-1 Manual page 24

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Using the Self-Timer Obvious uses for the self-timer are self-portraits and the inclusion of

the photographer in the picture. The self-timer, though, can also be used in place of a cable

release to release the shutter gently and smoothly in close range work like photomicrography

or copying. Push the electronic self-timer lever forward, then press the shutter button, and the

shutter will be released 10 seconds later. The camera memorizes the exposure value the very

instant the self-timer is activated by pressing the shutter button. While the self timer is in

operation, the self-timer lamp flashes on and off. After you finish taking a picture the self-

timer lever should be reset to its original position. Otherwise, it will function again the next

time you press the shutter button.

To prevent stray light from entering the viewfinder from the rear and possibly affecting the

meter reading, it is a good idea to cover the eyepiece with the viewfinder cover which is

inserted into the accessory shoe. This cover can be attached to the holder on the viewfinder

eyepiece. After doing so, press the shutter button.

Canceling the Self-Timer Operation If you should want to cancel the self timer operation

after having pressed the shutter button, depress the battery check button on the top side of the

camera. Then, the self-timer lamp stops blinking and the self-timer operation will be

cancelled. If the battery check button is not depressed and the self-timer lever is returned to its

original position, the shutter will be released.

Shooting Against the Light with the Backlight Control Switch In most cases, the Canon

AE-1's Central Emphasis Metering system will give correct exposure readings in AE

photography. However, you will occasionally encounter 'abnormal' or unfavorable lighting

situations in which normal AE photography would not provide a correct exposure reading of

the main subject. For example, in situation where your subject has strong light behind it or the

subject contrasts sharply with the background or the composition is such that it does not

appear in the center of the picture or the entire scene is either extremely bright such as a light-

colored subject in snow, a white wall or on a sunny beach.

For example, if you use the camera with a standard 50mm lens that is

focused on a subject at medium distance, say 3m with the aperture set

at f/8, the depth-of-field extends from 2.4m to 4.5m. This tells you that

with the 50mm lens focused at 3m and the subject between 2.4m and

4.5m the film image will be reasonably sharp.

Exposure will be automatically determined at the instant the shutter

button is pressed, and not when the picture is actually taken. Therefore',

avoid standing directly in front of the lens when you press the shutter

button as the AE control may miscalculate the proper exposure.